Catbalogan City braces for smoking ban

CATBALOGAN CITY, March 10 (PNA) -- The city government here is stepping up their information drive on the “no smoking policy” in preparation of the full enforcement of smoking ban in the city.

Mayor Stephanie Uy-Tan said that while they are still raising awareness on the policy, city government employees have been asked to comply the law.

“If they want to smoke, they have to do it at the city hall’s rooftop,” Uy-Tan said.

Republic Act 9211 or the Tobacco Regulations Act of 2003 prohibits smoking in public places such as schools, terminals, hospitals, elevators and stairwells, location which fire hazards is present, restaurants and food preparation areas.

The law, however, mandates to establish a smoking area with a visible sign posted, but should also include notice of warning about the health effects of direct and second hand exposure to tobacco smoke.

Negative health effects of tobacco smoking include cancer, muscular degeneration, cataract, optic nerve damage, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, chronic bronchitis among others.

The technical working group for the implementation of the “no smoking policy” is regularly conducting monthly meeting. After the awareness drive, the law would be enforced to all, both locals and visitors.

In Eastern Visayas, local government units that strictly implement “no smoking policy” are Maasin City, Southern Leyte and Naval, Biliran. Both local government units are national awardees of the Department of Health Red Orchid Award. (PNA)
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