Manila, Philippines — A few days before the opening of classes, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) once again reminded the public that smoking is strictly prohibited in public places, particularly those located near schools.
This is in line with the existing law, Republic Act No. 9211, or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, and the agency’s ongoing campaign to make Metro Manila smoke-free.
The MMDA Health, Public Safety and Environmental Protection Office continues to conduct inspections and information drives in various areas, distributing flyers and placing “No Smoking” stickers on vehicles.
Part of the campaign is ensuring that no one sells, offers, or distributes cigarettes or vape products within a 100-meter perimeter of schools, as required by law.
The MMDA emphasized the importance of collective efforts in supporting the Department of Health (DOH) in promoting the ban on smoking and vaping in public places, especially inside vehicles, establishments, elevators, schools, and other public areas.
It can be recalled that the DOH continues to push for a total ban on e-cigarettes products in the country.
However, while such a measure has yet to be enacted into law, the agency is urging the removal of vape flavors from these products to reduce their appeal to consumers, particularly young people, who are often targeted by misleading marketing strategies.