MMDA apprehends over 6,154 smokers

More than 6,154 smokers have been given stern warning since the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) conducted its month-long information campaign on no-smoking policy. Next month, starting July 1, violators will be fined P500.

In its website, the MMDA featured a tally of "smokers given warnings," and "anti-littering apprehensions," as of June 16, 2011, two campaigns, which are being implemented without letup.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said that over 6,154 smokers were given warning, adding that the agency will continue its information campaign to educate the public on the anti-smoking drive as well as the associated health risk they are taking every time they smoke.

Tolentino said a warning is enough for now to those puffing a smoke in public though he added the MMDA will start apprehending and meting out fines for violators starting next month. Once fully implemented, violators will be fined P500 on first offense, while those who cannot afford to pay the fine will be obliged to render an eight-hour community service.

Public places where smoking is banned include public utility vehicles (PUV), transport terminals, tricycles, schools, hospitals, bars and restaurants.

Tolentino also stressed that smoking will not be tolerated in the streets and in areas where food is being prepared.

The MMDA noted that anti-smoking teams shall not accept payment of P500 fine from violators. Instead, violators will be required to settle their obligation at the agency or at an MMDA-accredited bank.

The MMDA’s campaign is anchored in the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, and the smoking prohibitions of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and similar ordinances and issuances of local government units (LGU).

Meanwhile, the agency’s anti-littering drive has apprehended 48,740 individuals.

According to Health, Public Safety, and Environmental Protection Office (HPSEPO), majority of the violators that were arrested by the agency’s environmental enforcers were caught indiscriminately throwing cigarette butts. Some were cited for throwing candy wrappers, for spitting and urinating in the streets and throwing small paper or others.

By ANNA LIZA T. VILLAS