Executive Order On Smoking Ban Nationwide Signed By President Duterte
President Rodrigo Duterte has already signed the Executive Order (EO) that will impose the smoking ban in all public places nationwide.
On Tuesday (May 16, 2017), the Executive Order 26 that will prohibit smokers to smoke cigarettes in public places nationwide has been signed by President Duterte. This bill is a replicate of the policy he implemented in Davao City while he is the mayor.
The Executive Order 26 defines the Designated Smoking Areas (DSAs) where smoking may be allowed in an open space or isolated area with proper ventilation. A building can have only one DSA and minors are not allowed.
On Thursday (May 18, 2017), Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial from the Department of Health (DOH) confirms that the president has already signed the EO. She also said that they will proceed in creating the EO’s implementing rules and regulation. Malacañang Palace also confirmed that the EO has been signed by the president.
The EO sets the guidelines on designated smoking areas and gives the lists of areas where smoking is prohibited including:
- Schools, Universities, Playschools, and Recreational Facilities for Minors
- Food Preparation Areas
- Elevators and Stairwells
- Private or Public Hospitals
- Medical, Dental, and Optical Clinic
- Places where Fire Hazards can be found
Here are the photos showing the list of prohibited acts under the Executive Order 26 signed by President Duterte.
What can you say about the nationwide smoking ban? Do you really think that it can reduce the number of smokers? Just feel free to leave your comments and reactions for this article.
