Written by Jhezereel Bangaoet, Dianne Rose Daileg, and Kysia Ferrer
Photos courtesy of UB Security Office
Over the years, the University of Baguio has consistently enforced strict anti-vaping and anti-smoking measures, reflecting its strong commitment to the city’s Smoke-Free Ordinance.
According to the Security Director
Jayton M. Anaen, the University of Baguio
was the first university in Cordillera to
impose operations, “Spot Check”, that
regularly search students’ belongings
thoroughly for any signs of vapes or other
tobacco products. Along with “Tusok Bag”,
where Marshals use sticks to check the
bags of students before entering the
campus, relying on plain view without force
inspection.
“Everyday. As long as you enter the campus, you have to cooperate with the security.” said Chief Jayton, highlighting the campus’ strictness on the prohibition of vapes or any tobacco products. “There are times also that the Deans and the Principals will request to conduct ‘Spot Check’” on their respective departments.
In 2024, UB’s Security Office formalized its smoke-free policy, approved by the
Office of Student Affairs (OSA). The policy mandates confiscation of vapes or any
tobacco products. Stating that any students that violate will be sent to the security
office for questioning then the student together with their I.D will be forwarded to
OSA. The OSA will then impose sanctions ranging from three days of community
service for first offense to five day suspensions with community service for repeat
violations. However, Chief Jayton clarified that the final decision rests with the dean.
Some deans strictly follow the stated policy, while others add additional
requirements, such as assigning community service within their own offices, as long
as OSA permits it.
This strict enforcement was matched by
equal diligence in handling the confiscated
devices. The previous method of disposing
of these collected vapes was deemed
“hazardous”, therefore the security office
opted to surrender them to the Public Order
and Safety Division (POSD) for safety
measures and proper disposal at the end of
each year. Chief Jayton recalled an incident
in which a vape exploded during their
routine practice of destroying confiscated
vapes by smashing them with a hammer.
“It’s chemical— it explodes, that’s why we
decided to surrender it to the POSD,” Chief
Jayton explained.
“Vaping and smoking are parasites to the community.”, stated Chief Jayton, as he called for every university to comply with the Smoke-Free City Campaign and strengthen the enforcement of the ordinance.
Addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The collection and surrendering of confiscated vapes by the University’s Security Office in support of the Smoke-Free City Ordinance directly contribute to SDG no. 3 – Good Health and Well-Being by enforcing smoke-free policy, reducing exposure to the harmful effects of smoking, helps to protect students, faculty, and staff from health risks. Furthermore, the initiative supports SDG no. 4 – Quality Education. A safe and healthy learning environment is essential for effective education. Eliminating smoking activities allows students to focus better on their academic responsibilities and promotes discipline. SDG no. 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities by supporting local efforts to create safer and healthier public spaces. SDG no. 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production. Ensuring that confiscated vapes were not crushed or destroyed due to their chemical contents, promoting environmental safety because vapes can pollute the environment with heavy metals and can cause fire. And, the active role of the Security Office reflects SDG no. 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, highlighting the importance of strong institutional policies and responsible enforcement.
The collection of vapes is not only a health-related measure but also a meaningful contribution to sustainable development, reinforcing the school’s role in building discipline, healthy, and responsible governance within the academic community. Through the continued enhancement of these efforts, the Security Office reflects the University of Baguio’s commitment to protecting the well-being of its students, staff, and wider community, while actively supporting the city’s campaign goal for a cleaner and healthier Baguio.
