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Wednesday, June 25, 2003
Public told to cooperate in drive v. smoking
By She Caguimbal-Torres
PRESIDENT Arroyo appealed Tuesday to smokers to be more responsible and cooperate in the government's campaign against smoking.
Arroyo, during her visit to Tiaong, Quezon, said everyone should join and support the campaign because the health of every Filipino is an overriding national concern.
"This falls within the same framework of our successful campaign against Sars (severe acute respiratory syndrome), the anti-drug campaign and all related programs geared towards a healthier, stronger, more energetic and forward-looking society," she said.
"This is also part of our commitment to a cleaner, healthier and safer world for all rising generations. I ask for the full cooperation of the public. We must take care or ourselves and of our country," she added.
Arroyo on Monday signed into law the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 (RA 9211), which regulates the use, sale, distribution and advertisements of tobacco products in the country.
Among the salient points of the new law are: banning smoking in public places; posting of "No Smoking" signs in public places; prohibiting minors, to buy, sell or use tobacco products; and prohibiting the sale or distribution of tobacco products within 100 meters from school premises.
The said law also bans tobacco advertisements on television and radio starting Jan. 1, 2007 and an absolute ban on tobacco ads on cinema and outdoor advertising starting July 1, 2007; requires tobacco companies to include health warnings on the front panels of packages effective July 1, 2006; phases out of cigarette advertisements starting Jan. 1, 2007 and an absolute ban on advertisements in the mass media effective July 1, 2008; and prohibiting cigarette companies from sponsoring sports, cultural, and educational programs effective July 1, 2008.
Penalties for violations of RA 9211, which is in response to the requirements of the World Health Organization (WHO) to regulate the use of tobacco products, range from P500 to P400,000 and imprisonment of a month to three years, including administrative sanctions.
Presidential spokesman Ignacio Bunye said Malacaņang itself would ensure that the law is implemented starting with the banning of smoking in the Palace premises.
"She signed the law (Monday) and she's exhorting everyone to abide by what the law says. (Malacaņang is not exempted) definitely," he said.
(June 25, 2003 issue)
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