By: Janine Ericka R. Paneda

On May 7, 2025, a total of 159 confiscated e-cigarettes and tobacco products were officially turned over by the Student Development and Welfare Center to the Pollution Control of the Campus Management Office which marks the ongoing efforts of the university to promote the ongoing Smoke-Free Advocacy of the University of the Cordilleras.

This collaboration emphasizes the utilization of the universities’ utilities and coordination with trained professionals in managing and handling and hazardous waste.

These will be processed and disposed of in accordance with hazardous waste management protocols, ensuring that none of the components end up harming the environment.

The University of the Cordilleras started to conduct this affirmative action that strengthens the University’s policy, Student Support Services Promoting a Smoke-Free Campus (UC-SAS-PG-01) published this year, 2025 and Confiscation and Disposal of E-Cigarette and Tobacco Product (UC-SDWO-PG-33) published on the year 2024, regarding the banning of possession and use of e-cigarettes and tobacco products in its premises and helps in its more significant endeavor of making the University environment healthier and more conducive. This policy fully aligns with Baguio City Ordinance No. 34, Series of 2017, and Resolution No. 257, clearly urging schools, universities and other learning institutions in the City of Baguio to strictly implement the banning the entry, possession, use and sale of vape products.