17/04/2025
Great Job Ormoc, dapat pati sa schools and church gatherings.
We should be mindful of that we put in our body. We have responsibility to take care of it.
Everything has consequences. If we don’t follow the rules of health.
Ormoc City Bans Sugary Drinks in Government Events, Mandates Water as Primary Beverage
Ormoc City, Philippines — In a decisive move promoting public health and wellness, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez has signed Executive Order No. 2025-012, mandating that water shall be the primary beverage option in all events and activities organized by the city government.
Citing the Local Government Code (RA 7160) which mandates local government units to uphold public health and safety, the order aims to curb the excessive consumption of sugary drinks, which have been linked to various health problems including obesity, diabetes, and chronic illnesses.
Under this new policy:
• All city government departments and offices are directed to refrain from including sugary drinks in food and beverage purchase requests for official activities, meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• In place of sugary beverages, bottled water will be the default option. Healthy alternatives such as unsweetened teas, infused water, and natural fruit juices without added sugar may also be considered, depending on availability and budget.
• The order defines “sugary drinks” to include carbonated soft drinks, sweetened fruit drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, and flavored waters with added sugar.
• The City Budget Office, City Accounting Office, and Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) are tasked to ensure compliance, while the Internal Audit Services (IAS) will monitor adherence.
Mayor Gomez emphasized that this initiative is part of the city’s commitment to promoting a healthier lifestyle and better well-being among employees and residents. | VAW