Smoking in Vizcaya public sitesprohibited

By Freddie G. Lazaro

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — Cigarette smoking in all public places and vehicles in Nueva Vizcaya is already prohibited following the recent approval of an ordinance pushed by the provincial Board Members here.

Provincial Board Ordinance No. 2010-049, which was already signed by Nueva Vizcaya Gov. Luisa Cuaresma, cited the provisions of the 1987 Constitution, mandating the state to protect the right to health of the people and to instill health consciousness among them.

Section 24 of Republic Act (RA) 8749 or the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 prohibits smoking inside enclosed public places and public vehicles.

Local government units are directed by law to implement the provision.

Section 5 of RA 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 prohibits smoking in certain public places whether enclosed or outdoors like centers of youth activity, public facilities, and public conveyances.

It was gathered that the members of the provincial board are presently coordinating with various sectors and groups for the proper dissemination and implementation of the said ordinance.

“Public hearings and information dissemination campaigns will be held to support the province’s no-smoking campaign,” Senior Board Member Edgardo Balgos said.

The said ordinance seeks the installation of “No Smoking” signs in prohibited areas and removal of ashtrays in public and work places, among others.