Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) is partnering with the Alliance to Keep Youth Tobacco-Free (AKT) in the City of West Covina. AKT is a local coalition of teens, residents, and community advocates who are committed to protecting the youth of West Covina from the dangers of tobacco use. Although the sale of tobacco products to minors has been illegal for over 100 years, many retailers continue to do so at alarming rates. AKT conducted a youth tobacco purchase survey in April 2008 to determine if tobacco retailers in the City of West Covina were willing to sell tobacco to minors.  Of the 63 retailers that were surveyed, 19 retailers, or 30.3%, were willing to sell tobacco to an under-aged youth.

SIPA is a non profit organization that seeks to enhance the quality of life of Filipino Americans and other communities through youth development, health, economic, and social services. SIPA also develops affordable housing and other projects that promote cultural identity, economic stability, self-sufficiency, and civic participation.

SIPA and AKT will present at the next City Council meeting on March 2, 2010 at 7pm  We encourage all residents to attend as the AKT coalition will present its information to the City Council.  The youth, in particular, will share their experience of participating in the youth tobacco purchase surveys.  To learn more about AKT and youth access to tobacco in West Covina, please contact Zodin Del Rosario at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (213) 382-1819 ext. 123.

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