Amended Davao anti-smoking law approved on 1st reading

THE City Council approved on first reading the new Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Davao City.

With no questions asked, all councilors present in Tuesday’s regular session voted for the approval of the new version of the ordinance that aims to further intensify the city's anti-smoking policy.

In her letter to Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, Dr. Domilyn Villarreiz, chair of the city's Anti-Smoking Task Force, listed some of the tobacco-derived products that should be banned. She specifically listed E-cigarettes, sheisha, and other similar devices.

Villarreiz also called for the "banning of smoking in all enclosed or partially enclosed places but allows designated smoking areas outside of the building upon the approval of the Anti-Smoking Task Force."

The proposed amendment also aims to increase the penalties and requiring attendance to a smoking cessation clinic.

It also aims to authorize the city mayor to commission enforcers other than the Philippines National Police to arrest violators and issue citation tickets.

For fines and penalties, the following are the proposed rates: first offense -- P1,000 or one month imprisonment or both; second offense -- P2,500 or two months imprisonment; and third offense -- P3,000 or four months of imprisonment.

The item has been referred to the committees on rules, privileges, and ordinances, and health. (JOP)