A public hearing on the proposed Tagbilaran City ordinance prohibiting the consumption, sale, distribution and advertisement of cigarettes in public areas was held yesterday, five days before the implementation of the nationwide smoking ban on July 23.

The public hearing was carried out by the Tagbilaran City Sangguniang Panlungsod to spread information on the strict implementation of the smoking ban including its violations and corresponding penalties, said Councilor Eliezer Borja, chair of the SP’s health committee.

Officials led by Borja explained the implementing guidelines of the proposed ordinance which is expected to affect the slew of cigarette smokers in the city.

The public hearing was attended by representatives from various establishments in the business sector and local government agencies.

Meanwhile, Dr. Jeja Pondoc of the Tagabilaran City Health Office (CHO) explained the numerous ill effects of cigarette smoking which have prompted the government to implement the smoking ban.

According to Pondoc, a task force will be created to enforce the ordinance once enacted.

Signs will be erected in public areas while penalties will be imposed on violators, she said.

The local official also reminded the public on the nationwide implementation of the smoking ban on Sunday which gives police the authority to arrest violators of the law.

The smoking ban, or Executive Order (EO) No. 26, was signed on May 16 by President Rodrigo Duterte. (AD)