by Mhars B. LIhgawon


LAMUT, Ifugao - Smokers would now have to be more restrained and self-disciplined as the municipal government has imposed a ban on smoking in government offices, public schools premises, and public utility vehicles in this town.

The passage of the municipal ordinance banning smoking in public places is in support of the anti-smoking campaign and the unrelenting effort of the local government unit (LGU) to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of tobacco products.

This is also in line with Republic Act No. 9211 or the "Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003" whose salient points include smoking ban in all schools and health facilities (including outdoor premises) and in all enclosed or confined public places and all public transportation.

According to the ordinance, it would be unlawful for any person to smoke cigarettes or any items of the same effect inside the municipal and national offices, public school premises, restaurants, public utility passenger vehicles, and other similar places in the municipality.

However, the municipal mayor may designate a smoking area which shall not be located in or near areas where people usually gather.

Any person found guilty of violating the ordinance would be penalized P200 or four hours community service for first offense; P300 or eight hours community service for second offense; and P500 or 12-hour community service for third offense; and P1,500 for subsequent offenses or imprisonment upon the discretion of the court.

For owners and operators of businesses, a fine of P500 and warning for first offense; P1,500 and suspension of mayor’s permit for second offense; and revocation of mayor’s permit or imprisonment of 30 days or both upon the discretion of the court for third offense.

The municipal mayor has directed the local police, barangay officials, heads of national agencies and schools administrators, including drivers of public utility vehicles for the full implementation of this anti-smoking campaign. * (JDP/MBL-PIA CAR, Ifugao)