By Danny Estacio

 

GUMACA, Quezon, Philippines – The municipal government here will tighten the enforcement of laws against smoking and vape use in public places.

According to Gumaca Mayor Webster Letargo, violations of existing ordinances are worsening where smoking and vaping are widespread in markets, parks, and even on public transport.

Letargo added that, as a result, the police and local authorities were instructed to strictly enforce Executive Order No. 26 and Republic Act No. 11900 to curb violations.

The local chief executive emphasized that secondhand smoke and vaping are dangerous to health, especially for young people who are exposed to them in public places.

Among the targets of the operation will be violators inside jeepneys, tricycles, markets, parks, and other public places, in accordance with the town’s existing smoke-free ordinance.

Under local ordinances such as Municipal Ordinance No. 13-2011, which prohibits smoking in public places and vehicles, while Public Order No. 22-2011 imposes fines and counseling for minors and their parents, which can reach ₱2,500, and imprisonment for habitual offenders.

Letargo said that establishments under Public Order No. 152-2014 are also required to post information regarding the protection of youth and the strict implementation of the “No Smoking” policy.

“The local government hopes that with the more intensified implementation of the laws, clean air will be restored, youth will be protected, and the health of the people of Gumaca will be preserved,” Letargo said.