2 agencies call for smoke-free Central Luzon

Thursday, July 7, 2011
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Health (DOH) are calling all Central Luzon officials to enact a “Smoke-Free Ordinance” after a model developed by the health agency.
The ordinance, developed by the DOH in consultation with the Framework Convention on Tobacco Alliance Philippines and other concerned government agencies, prohibits the use, sale, distribution and advertisement of cigarettes and other tobacco products in certain places, imposing penalties for violations thereof and providing funds therefore, and for other purposes.
Joint Memorandum Circular 2011-01, dated June 13, 2011 signed by DILG-Central Luzon Regional Director Florida Dijan and DOH Regional Director Rio Magpantay, states that the call for a smoke-free environment is in accordance with the 1987 Constitution, wherein the state shall protect and promote public health and instill health consciousness among its people.
It also aims to uphold public health and promote measures of tobacco control, in accordance to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, in which the Philippines is a party.
According to Republic Act (RA) 7160 or Local Government Code of 1991, local government units (LGUs) shall implement within its jurisdiction, health promotion and safety of its constituents.
LGUs are also mandated to implement a smoking ban in enclosed public places and other means of transport as per RA 8749, or Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999.
As evidence of its full support to this campaign, DILG has issued Regional Office Circular 2011-03 regarding “Strict Observance of a Smoke-Free Workplace,” dated June 28, 2011.
All DILG regional office personnel are directed to strictly observe and maintain a smoke-free area within the office premises and surrounding, and that any violation will be subjected to administrative discipline.
Published in the Sun.Star Pampanga newspaper on July 08, 2011.

Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2011/07/07/2-agencies-call-smoke-free-central-luzon-165590