A COMPREHENSIVE policy to protect non-smokers was deliberated on during a public hearing chaired by the 21st City Council’s committee on health, nutrition and insurance at the council session hall on Thursday, Apr. 30.

 

Councilor and committee chairman Paolo Nicolo Gaane presided over the public hearing on Proposed Ordinance No. 2025-121, which seeks to strengthen public health protection through a comprehensive smoke-free policy.

 

The ordinance aims to reinforce regulations on cigarettes, tobacco products, and other nicotine-based substances within the city. It proposes the designation of specific areas where smoking will be permitted, subject to strict standards and guidelines.

 

Under the proposed measure, minors will be strictly prohibited from purchasing tobacco products and those found violating this ordinance will be penalized. The ordinance also includes a 100-meter ban on the sale of tobacco products near schools and other areas frequently occupied by minors.

 

Councilor Gaane cited the health risks associated not only with first-hand smoking but also with second-hand and third-hand smoke exposure, which can lead to serious health complications.

 

The measure ultimately aims to establish a smoke-free city by implementing stricter controls and preventing the spread of smoking habits, particularly among the youth.

 

Representatives of various offices were invited to the hearing, including the City Health Office, City Administrator’s Office, JR Borja General Hospital, City Legal Office, Liga ng mga Barangay, City Treasurer’s Office, Office of the Building Official, and the Business Permits and Licensing Division, along with other concerned agencies. (MDS/CIO/Photos Courtesy of Councilor Paolo Gaane)