INITIATIVES and activities on information, education and communication campaign (IEC) have been strengthened by the Iloilo City’s Anti-Smoking Task Force (Icast) in the observance of “National No Smoking Month” this June.

The ordinance focuses more on awareness of students related to the opening of classes and the election of new officials of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) or youth council.

The ordinance prohibits vaping and selling of cigarettes with a radius of 100 meters away from schools, hospitals, public plazas, government buildings and clinics, and laboratories.

Sari-sari stores are not allowed to put up posters and drop boxes about cigarette companies’ promos.

Any establishment caught violating the ordinance will be fined P2,000 on first offense; P3,000 on second offense and one-week suspension or cancellation of permit, and P5,000 on third offense and revocation of permit.

From January to May 2018, there were 3,103 apprehensions, 2,672 or majority are civilians; 244 students; 163 public utility drivers; and 24 minors. The youngest was 16 years old.

The Iloilo City Health Office and Icast operate smoking cessation clinic at second floor of City Hall from Monday to Friday at 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PR)