Advisers

Divine Grace Rapsing

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Republic Act No. 10643, also known as the Graphic Health Warnings Law, mandates the inclusion of graphic health warnings on tobacco product packaging to inform the public about the harmful effects of smoking. The law aims to reduce tobacco consumption and promote smoking cessation through increased awareness and behavioral influence. Despite its nationwide implementation, limited local studies have assessed its effectiveness at the barangay level. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Republic Act No. 10643 in promoting smoking cessation and prevention in Barangay Balangkas, Valenzuela City. A Descriptive and Quantitative research design was employed in this study. Data were collected through a structured survey questionnaire administered to selected residents of Barangay Balangkas, including smokers and non-smokers. The instrument measured respondents’ level of awareness, perception of graphic health warnings, behavioral influence, and smoking practices. Weighted mean and frequency distribution were used to analyze the level of effectiveness, while correlation analysis determined the relationship between exposure to graphic warnings and smoking cessation behavior. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated a high level of awareness regarding the graphic health warnings displayed on cigarette packages. The graphic images were perceived as clear, noticeable, and informative. Results indicated a moderate to high influence of graphic warnings on respondents’ intention to reduce or quit smoking. Statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between exposure to graphic health warnings and smoking behavior change. However, some respondents reported desensitization to repeated exposure to the same warning images over time. The results suggest that Republic Act No. 10643 is generally effective in increasing awareness and influencing smoking cessation behavior in Barangay Balangkas, Valenzuela City. Graphic health warnings serve as a preventive tool by strengthening risk perception and encouraging smokers to reconsider their habits. Nonetheless, the effectiveness may decrease over time due to familiarity with the images. Continuous monitoring, periodic updating of warning images, and strengthened community-based smoking cessation programs are recommended to enhance the long-term impact of the law at the local level.

Keywords

Republic Act No. 10643, Graphic Health Warnings, Smoking Cessation, Tobacco Control, Behavioral Influence, Prevention