Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte recently unveiled the detailed guidelines for the city’s calorie labeling ordinance, aimed at fostering healthier eating habits among residents. The ordinance, which was passed in 2023 and came into effect in March 2024, mandates that all food outlets within the city, including restaurants and fast food chains, must display the calorie content of their menu items clearly. This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat the rising incidence of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, which have been identified as major health concerns in the city.
During a press conference, Mayor Belmonte emphasized the ordinance’s role in empowering citizens to make informed dietary choices. The new rules require that calorie information be displayed prominently next to the item’s name or price, measured in kilocalories (kcal). Additionally, upon request, establishments must provide further nutritional details including carbohydrates, fats, sugars, and sodium, adhering to the Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI).
The implementation of the ordinance will occur in phases. Starting December 20, 2025, large food chains with five or more branches will be the first to comply. In 2026, the requirement will extend to smaller businesses with at least two branches and hotels. By 2027, all food businesses, with the exception of certain microenterprises and MSMEs, must fully comply.
To support businesses in adapting to these new regulations, the Quezon City Health Department (QCHD) will offer training and technical assistance. Early adopters who comply ahead of the mandated deadlines will be eligible for incentives, recognizing their proactive approach to public health. Conversely, non-compliance will result in fines, and repeated violations could lead to the revocation of business permits.
QCHD Head Ramona Abarquez underscored the urgency of the ordinance, pointing to recent data showing that hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes were the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Quezon City in 2023. She stressed that immediate action is necessary to address this health crisis.