ALABEL, Sarangani — In a move to strengthen public health advocacy, personnel of the Sarangani Police Provincial Office (SPPO), led by Acting Provincial Director PCOL Jerone Orville P. Panganiban, together with the Alabel Municipal Police Station under PLTCOL Bejie O. Ancheta, conducted a ceremonial destruction of confiscated cigarettes and vape products on December 4, 2025.
The event, held at the Alabel Municipal Police Station, involved close coordination with the Provincial Department of Health, the Alabel Municipal Government, the Rural Health Office, and the Bureau of Fire Protection. The seized tobacco and vape items were collected during recent enforcement activities at the KASADYAAN and MUNATO Festivals.
“This ceremonial destruction reflects our unwavering commitment to enforce tobacco and vape regulations while promoting a healthy, smoke-free environment in our community,” Panganiban said.
The initiative aligns with existing national laws and local ordinances regulating tobacco and vape products. Authorities emphasized that the operation not only ensures proper disposal of harmful products but also serves as a public reminder of the municipality’s dedication to protecting the welfare of its residents.
PLTCOL Ancheta highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in enforcing health regulations, saying the joint effort demonstrates how law enforcement, health agencies, and local government units can work together to safeguard public health.
The ceremonial destruction marks a significant step in Alabel’s continuous drive to raise awareness on the dangers of tobacco and vape consumption, reinforcing the municipality’s advocacy for a healthier community.