La Trinidad councilor pushes smoking ordinance

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- An ordinance banning smoking in this province is crafted to impose fines and penalties for offenders, according to Councilor Roderick Awingan.

Awingan said, in his proposal, that it is the policy of the state to protect the health of its citizens from the hazards of smoking and secondary-hand smoke and instill health consciousness.

The ordinance is dubbed as a “Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance of La Trinidad.”

He said the ordinance bans smoking in all places or establishments were smoking is not allowed.

He reiterated, however, that smoking sessions may be in an open space or separate area with proper ventilation, but shall not be located within the same room that has been designated as a non-smoking-area.

Awingan proposed that first offenders shall be fined with P500; P1,000 for second offenders; and suspension of business permit and license to operate for one week in case of business entity or establishment.

For third offenders and subsequent offenders, they shall be fined with P2,500 and a cancellation and revocation of business permit and license in case of business entity or establishment.

Awingan proposed the creation of the La Trinidad Anti Smoking Task Force to help the academe, health sector, police, barangay, business, student, student and media groups in monitoring, implementing and enforcing the provisions of the said ordinance.

The task force is to be under the office of the mayor and subject to his direct control and supervision.