Local execs told to enforce smoking ban

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged all local chief executives to strictly implement the smoking ban this Christmas.

According to DILG officer in charge Catalino Cuy, local government units should strictly enforce the smoking ban in government offices, schools, hospitals and other public and enclosed spaces in anticipation of parties and other Christmas celebrations.

Cuy reminded local chief executives to make sure there were smoke-free environments in public and enclosed places in compliance with Executive Order No. 26, which prohibits smoking in public places and conveyances as well as the distribution or promotion of tobacco products.

“While Christmas parties and get-togethers have been part of our Yuletide celebrations, we do not want partygoers to suffocate or develop lung diseases from inhaling cigarette or tobacco smoke,” Cuy said.