Starting today (May 31, 2013) – a new regulation to Davao City’s Smoking Ordinance has been enforced. You are only allowed to smoke in your house, private vehicles and allocated outdoor places.
A person is not allowed to smoke in any crowds like public parties, parades, concerts and the like. The new regulation disallows smoking in public transportation; government owned vehicles, enclosed or partly enclosed public places and public outdoor like cemetery, stations and markets.
Dr. Domilyn C. Villareiz (Head of Anti-Smoking Task Force Davao City) said that: Smoking is prohibited 10 meters away from the entrance and exit of establishment and areas where people pass.
Violators for the first-time will be given a citation ticket by the arresting police officer. The violator must pay administrative fee of P500.00 pesos and must attend smoking cessation counseling before returning the citation to the arresting police officer. Fines to subsequent violators fine is increased ranging from P1,000 – P 5,000 whereas the length of the imprisonment is from one month to four months.
Establishments in Davao City may also face penalties in failing to comply the ordinance for outdoor smoking areas. So, establishments must apply for a permit to set up an outdoor smoking area.
Lastly, smokers must be aware of the designated areas allowed for smoking to avoid penalties.
