By Vanessa B. Barayang, BA Comm-4, The Centralian Link Intern

Guest speakers and organizers pose for a photo with Senior High School students during KASANAGAN: A Lecture Series on Current Social Issues titled “Think Before You Puff: The Truth About Smoking and Vaping”, held at the EMC Conference Room on March 17, 2026. The lecture aimed to raise awareness among students about the health risks and consequences of smoking and vaping.

Central Philippine University hosted a lecture under KASANAGAN: A Lecture Series on Current Social Issues titled “Think Before You Puff: The Truth About Smoking and Vaping” on March 17, 2026, at the EMC Conference Room. The lecture aimed to educate senior high school students about the health risks and social consequences of smoking and vaping.

The event opened with an invocation led by Dr. Johanna Faith Candido, followed by the singing of the Philippine national anthem and the CPU Alma Mater song. In her opening remarks, Dr. Candido expressed her gratitude on behalf of Dr. Esther Rose Romarate and acknowledged the presence of distinguished guests, including Mr. Inigo Garingalao, Ms. Kai Evangelista of the Iloilo City Anti-Smoking Task Force (ICAST), Sir Philipin Robert Franje, Kagawad of Barangay Lopez Jaena, Sir Pems Adonis Arevalo from the Iloilo City Police Station 3 ICPO, Police Lieutenant Owen Andrada, and Ms. Cheryl Buendia Maraliy, senior high school PTPA president and SB member.

Dr. Candido reminded students of the importance of mindful choices, quoting investor Warren Buffet: “The chains of habits are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken.” She emphasized that every action carries consequences and encouraged the audience to listen attentively and reflect on the decisions they make in their daily lives.

The lecture featured Mr. Inigo Garingalao as one of the speakers. In his talk, he shared insights about life strategies and the importance of planning for the future. He encouraged students to think about what they want to achieve after high school and to develop small but meaningful strategies to reach their goals. Mr. Garingalao also highlighted how lifestyle choices can significantly affect one’s future, noting that smoking may feel pleasurable at first, but the long-term health consequences eventually become evident. He added that quitting smoking requires discipline but is a decision that greatly benefits one’s future self.

Another speaker, Ms. Gerona, engaged the students through an interactive discussion about smoking and vaping. She began by asking the audience if anyone smoked or vaped. When no one raised their hand, she asked if any family members smoked, prompting one student to respond, earning recognition for their honesty. Ms. Gerona then conducted a short breathing exercise with the students, which served as an introduction to her discussion on how smoking affects breathing and overall health.

During her talk, Ms. Gerona explained different types of smoking exposure, including first-hand and second-hand smoke. She presented a video showing the harmful effects of smoking and vaping and addressed common myths and misconceptions. She emphasized that smoking and vaping can negatively impact both smokers and those exposed to second-hand smoke. Towards the end of her discussion, Ms. Gerona promoted advocacy initiatives and encouraged participants to join the “Takbo Lungs” fun run on May 13, 2026, which aims to raise awareness about lung health and anti-smoking advocacy.

Another speaker, Ms. Kai Evangelista from the Iloilo City Anti-Smoking Task Force (ICAST), focused on the health risks and misconceptions surrounding smoking and vaping. She began by asking why people smoke or vape, noting that students often cited stress relief. Ms. Evangelista explained that nicotine is highly addictive and that smoking or vaping should not be considered healthy coping mechanisms. She encouraged students to find healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.

Ms. Evangelista also discussed how cigarette companies use strategic marketing to influence consumers and warned students about deceptive products disguised as vape devices. She debunked common myths about vaping and presented videos and images showing its harmful effects on the body.

The lecture concluded with an open forum where students asked questions about smoking, vaping, and healthy lifestyle choices. The program ended with the awarding of certificates of appreciation, a photo opportunity with the speakers, closing remarks, and a closing prayer.

Through the KASANAGAN Lecture Series, Central Philippine University continues to promote awareness of pressing social issues and empower students to make informed and responsible decisions for their health and future.