Lagawe dads pass local law banning smoking in public

By Marcelo Lihgawon

LAGAWE, Ifugao -- Municipal officials here approved an ordinance banning  smoking in public places and establishments in the municipality for welfare of the public.

Councilor Reynold Kimayong, author of “Anti-Smoking Ordinance,” said  smoking in public caused detrimental effect to health of the people.

The ordinance shall apply to all government offices and public places such as assembly halls, hospitals, corridors, public conveyance, schools, chapels, eateries, recreational centers, public utility vehicles, streets, plazas, waiting sheds, parks, gasoline stations and places where food and drinks are prepared and other similar places.

It shall be the responsibility of the person in charge of the operation of hospitals, clinics, educational institutions and other public places or government offices including public conveyance to put up signs that smoking is prohibited in said places or conveyances.

The owner/administrator of establishments should designate  a smoking area. A quarterly inspection shall be conducted by the municipal treasurer, health office and the police to ensure proper implementation and shall issue a notice of violation in case of non- compliance of the ordinance.

Members of the Lagawe police office, Public Order and Safety Committee , barangay officials and other officers

authorized by the municipal mayor will implement the provision of the ordinance and apprehend violators.

Violators can be also reported by any citizen to the police and barangay officials for apprehension and appropriate action.

Any person as well as  owner, operator or administrator found guilty of violating the ordinance shall be penalized accordingly.

The ordinance is in line with the LGU’s program on environmental protection and sanitation particularly the banner program of Mayor Ceasario Cabbigat  dubbed “Speed-up Lagawe.”