Parañaque gov’t vows to make 2015 hard for smokers

The New Year will see the city government of Parañaque strictly implementing a 2010 ordinance that prohibits smoking in public places, starting with a close watch on City Hall personnel and business establishments.

Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez said “now is the time to make that mark in making our beloved city free from smokers” through Ordinance No. 10-09, which was enacted on Feb. 4, 2010. “We need to show how serious we are.”

The measure bars smoking in government offices, schools, parks and other public areas, while requiring businesses to secure permits should they wish to allot smoking areas within their premises.

Smokers caught in violation face a fine of P500 for the first offense, P1,000 for a second and P1,500 for a third. Business establishments without proper permits for their smoking areas will be fined P2,000, P3,000 and P5,000, respectively, and may also face closure.

In a memo issued last month, Olivarez warned City Hall employees that those caught smoking in restricted areas may be suspended for one to six months. Repeat offenders face dismissal, forfeiture of retirement benefits and disqualification from any future job in the local government.

Doctor Romer Supangan of the City Health Office also explained that violators may opt for community service as their penalty, but they may also appeal or question their citation for a violation within 15 days. Maricar B. Brizuela