Did you know that an individual who is smoking in prohibited places can be penalized with a fine of P500 - P1,000 on the 1st offense; P1,000 - P5,000 on the 2nd offense; and P5,000 - P10,000 and cancellation/revocation of franchise or business permit on the 3rd offense?
The Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, or Republic Act No. 9211 (RA 9211), is an omnibus law that regulates smoking in public places, tobacco advertising, promotion, sponsorship, and sales limits, among other things. And in Metro Manila, the 17 local government units are putting their ordinances into effect in their localities.
These following spaces SHOULD BE completely smoke-free:
1. Centers of youth activity such as schools, preparatory schools, elementary schools, high schools, colleges and universities, youth hostels, and recreational facilities for person under 18
2. Elevators and stairwells
3. Locations in which fire hazards are present, including gas stations and storage areas for flammable liquids, gas, explosives, or combustible materials
4. Within the buildings and premises of public and private hospitals, medical, dental, and optical clinics, health centers, nursing homes, dispensaries, and laboratories
5. Public conveyances and public facilities including airport and ship terminals and train and bus stations, restaurants, and conference halls, except for separate smoking areas
6. Food preparation areas
Smoke-free regulations are popular because they protect the health of non-smokers while also encouraging smokers to stop.
According to World Health Organization’s (WHO) data, smoking cigarette causes 6 million preventable deaths globally each year, and exposure to secondhand smoking is expected to kill an extra 600,000 individuals.
Every 31st of May the world celebrates World No Tobacco Day. The theme for this year is "Tobacco: Threat to our Environment," with the goal of raising public awareness of the harmful environmental effects of tobacco, including its cultivation, manufacture, distribution, and waste. (PIA-NCR)
