Provincial anti-smoking ordinance signed into law

DAVAO ORIENTAL – Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang signed first week of August this year, the revised Provincial Anti-Smoking Ordinance imposing a smoking ban in all public places in the province. The ordinance, which was first enacted in 2016, prohibits smoking in all public areas, including government facilities, public transport facilities, food establishments, hotels, schools, hospitals, and work places as well as outdoor facilities like playgrounds, parks, and markets. Supporting the national government’s campaign to instill health consciousness among the public, the Provincial Anti-Smoking Ordinance is consistent to President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 26 which aims to safeguard public health.

Aiming to promote healthy lifestyle and protect the public from the devastating effects of smoking in terms of health, social, environmental, and monetary value, the ordinance also aims to curb the incidence of diseases caused by smoking tobacco, which has been costing the government millions of pesos on healthcare. For the ordinance to be fully executed throughout the province, implementing Rules and Regulations will be issued 60 days after the Governor’s approval. Board member Laureano B. Taya, SP Chairman on the Committee on Health and Sanitation, who authored the ordinance, said that penalties to violators will be imposed. Individuals and establishments proved violating the ordinance will face fines or imprisonment. For the first offense, violators will be fined Php300.00 to Php500.00 or imprisonment on the third offense. Meanwhile, based on the policy’s provisions, designated smoking areas are still allowed as long as the owners secure a Certificate of Compliance, and follow the requirements set by the ordinance. (with Karen Lou Deloso)