MMDA lauds Marikina, Taguig for anti-smoking laws
METROPOLITAN Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Atty. Romando Artes lauded the cities of Marikina and Taguig for the all-out implementation of their respective anti-smoking ordinances.
The MMDA chief said the agency recognizes the relentless efforts of Marikina and Taguig in protecting the public from the continuing danger posed by smoking, including vaping and e-cigarettes.
Two separate deputation training were jointly conducted by the MMDA, Action on Smoking and Health Philippines, and Health Justice Philippines in March and April.
The facilitators oriented the participants on the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping both to the user and those exposed to its emissions, enforcement mechanisms including proper use of citation tickets, reporting, monitoring and evaluation, among others.
“The purpose of the training is to equip enforcers with knowledge and skills that will help them in the implementation of their local ordinances focusing on a smoke-free environment,” said Artes.
“We are very grateful for their active participation. Trained personnel for deputation will now be authorized to apprehend anti-smoking violators,” he added.
For her part, Dr. Loida Alzona, Director of MMDA Health and Environmental Protection Office, stressed that each local government unit (LGU) in the National Capital Region (NCR) shall fully implement a 100% smoking-or-vape free policy as mandated by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order No. 26/106 as a method to safeguard public health.
