Anti Smoking Ordinance

Section 10, Rule III of City Ordinance No. 2002-090, or the Revised Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Makati, mandates the inclusion of compliance to the ordinance as an “additional requirement on the Sanitation Standards of the City Health Department.”

In Makati, and elsewhere, people are prohibited from smoking while in the premises of whatever bar, restaurant, pub or any watering hole people go to consume volumes and volumes of alcoholic drinks and spirits.

Commercial and business establishments in Makati, especially those engaged in food service, do not only face closure and revocation of business permit, but shall also be given failing marks on sanitation by the Makati Health Department (MHD) if found violating any provision of the anti-smoking ordinance.

Aside from designated smoking areas that conform to the standards set by the ordinance, establishments are also required to post “no-smoking” and “smoking area” signs in corresponding areas. Establishments without MHD-authorized smoking areas are automatically considered as “totally non-smoking areas,” and thus cannot allow smoking in any section or provide ashtrays and other smoking paraphernalia to customers.

Meanwhile, those with existing smoking areas should refrain from allowing these to be used by smoking patrons, management or staff until they have secured the necessary permit from the MHD. Otherwise, they will be meted the corresponding penalties, including being tagged as “unsanitary” by city health officials.

My Points of View:

People know that smoking is not only dangerous for the body, but could also be dangerous in the environment. It could cause not only bad health but accidents as well. A person who smokes should be responsible enough and this ordinance will help people become more disciplined in smoking. People will be more aware of their actions because there is punishment for every violation. This endorsement is an opportunity to be of help in safeguarding and promoting public health. People will be fully aware of the harmful and injurious effects of cigarette smoke to the well-being of the public. This shows manifestations of sincere commitment to uphold and protect the health of the public. It is promoting the Philippines as a smoker’s haven by harping on the impact of these restrictive ordinances on the tourism and hospitality industry. This ordinance is also a new opportunity to present the Philippines as a family destination where tourists can breathe tobacco-free air.