Philippines: Tacurong to Implement Anti-smoking Ordinance

Source from:  PHILIPPINE INFORMATION AGENCY (ph)  12/10/2012

The Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Tacurong City will be fully implemented effective January 2013.
 
However, according to councilor Psyche Sucaldito, the ordinance will already take effect in the city government buildings and areas on December 10, 2012.
 
"We are setting the standard so we need to start earlier than the rest of the city. We should be good examples," said Sucaldito, author of the said ordinance.
 
To kick off the ordinance's implementation, an orientation among city anti-smoking enforcers was conducted on November 26.
 
Salient points of the ordinance were discussed during the activity which was participated in by at least 33 representatives from Task Force Talakudong, DepEd, PNP, civilian volunteer officers, barangay councils, traffic enforcers, etc. Enforcement procedures were also deliberated.
 
In the ordinance, business establishments are directed to designate smoking areas and sari-sari stores must be prohibited from selling cigarettes to minors.
 
Regulation of smoking among adults was also discussed. Smoking will is prohibited among minors.
 
The body agreed that a Tacurong Anti-Smoking Task Force must be created to strengthen the campaign against smoking. Details of the anti-smoking ordinance will be posted in conspicuous areas in the city.
 
"This implementation needs an extensive information and education campaign among the citizenry. They should be well-informed of all our undertakings on this matter," said Mayor Lina Montilla during the orientation. Enditem