MANILA, Philippines — The smoking ban in Metro Manila continues as agencies and individuals have expressed support for the campaign. As part of its “Kalusugang Pangkalahatan’’ (Health for All) program, the Department of Health (DoH) is supporting the move of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to push the campaign against smoking, because of the harmful effects it causes not only to smokers but also to the public through second-hand smoke.
Tobacco smoke contains three dangerous chemicals: Tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide, placing passive smoker at high risk. The major diseases caused by smoking include cardiovascular disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Smoking reduces life expectancy by seven to eight years.
Children are prone to lung ailments such as asthma, bronchitis and pneumonia. Infants under two years old are prone to respiratory infections. There is also the possibility of inhibited physical growth and brain development.
MMDA is pursuing the smoking ban in areas covered by Republic Act (RA) 9211 the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, in Metro Manila, citing its mandate under RA 7924, which created the agency, “to pursue more health-related advocacies to promote public health, safety and sanitation, urban protection, and pollution control.’’ MMDA is seeking to transform the metropolis into a smoke-free community.
Section 5 of RA 9211 bans smoking in public places such as centers of youth activity as schools and recreational facilities, elevators and stairwells, gas stations and storage areas for flammable liquids, gas or combustible materials, premises of public and private hospitals, medical, dental, and optical clinics and health centers, nursing homes, dispensaries and laboratories, airport and ship terminals, train and bus stations, restaurants and conference halls.
The main consideration in the campaign to ban smoking in public places is the health and wellness of the public. Its success in the long term hinges on the support and cooperation of government and non-government groups, the private sector, communities, and individuals. Quit smoking and live longer!
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