163 smokers apprehended as Metro Manila starts anti-smoking drive

Posted on July 2 2011 by George Felan

163 smokers apprehended as Metro Manila starts anti-smoking drive

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has started implementing its anti-smoking drive Friday in cities and municipalities under the MMDA umbrella. Less than 24 hours after the implementation of the smoking ban in public places, at least 163 people were apprehended. MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said those who were caught violating the smoking ban were issued environmental violation tickets. According to MMDA, violators will be fined amounts ranging from P500.00 to P10,000.00 depending on the frequency of the offence. Minimum amount of fine is P500.00 for first time violators. According to ABS-CBN News those who cannot afford to pay the fine will be required to do community service The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) President Oscar D. Tinio has called on its members to support the MMDA smoking ban campaign. “We would like to congratulate MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino for demonstrating the political will required to enforce the smoking ban in public places across the National Capital Region.” Tinio said. “Smoking kills! As physicians, it is our duty to inform the public of the clear and present danger of tobacco smoking against our health and lives” he added. In the Philippines, at least 90,000 people are killed every year from smoking-related diseases like lung cancer, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. The MMDA smoking ban campaign has been hailed by Metro Manila residents for its efforts in preserving the health of the people in the metropolis. MMDA is an agency of the Philippine government whose primary function is to exercise regulatory and supervisory authority over the delivery of basic services to residents of the cities and municipalities under its supervision.

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