LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- The local government will strictly enforce an ordinance banning smoking in public places and regulation the sale, distribution and advertisement of tobacco products.
Mayor Edna Tabanda, who is also the chair of the multi-sectoral Municipal Tobacco Control Board (MTCB), urged residents and stakeholders to help implement the ordinance.
Dr. Amelita Pangilinan, OIC of the Department of Health Cordillera Administrative Regional Office (DOH-CAR), commended the municipality for approving such an ordinance, stressing a smoke-free community reduces respiratory cases and other health diseases.
To promote the no-smoking campaign, Pangilian's office has installed an exhibit on the adverse effects of smoking and a risk assessment booth for blood pressure taking, blood chemistry or screening.
A billboard on Smoke Free Environment-Tobacco Control Ordinance campaign has been put up at the municipal park.
The ordinance bans smoking in enclosed or partially-enclosed public places, workplaces, public conveyances. It also prohibits the sale of tobacco products to minors.
No tobacco advertisements are allowed outside business establishments and inside cinema. (Maria Aprila Cruz)