The ban

[av_one_full first min_height=” vertical_alignment=” space=” custom_margin=” margin=’0px’ padding=’0px’ border=” border_color=” radius=’0px’ background_color=” src=” background_position=’top left’ background_repeat=’no-repeat’ animation=”]

[av_heading heading=’ ABOVE THE LAW ‘ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=’30’ subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”]
BY AYIN DREAM D. APLASCA
[/av_heading]

[av_textblock size=’18’ font_color=” color=”]
I WAS ONE of the many people happy when the executive order banning smoking in public places nationwide was implemented a few weeks ago. I know a lot of us were rejoicing on this matter because local smoking ordinances were not sustained.

Yet, I think the same is still happening when it comes to smoking in public. Last time, I was in a tricycle terminal and drivers were happily smoking despite seeing their passengers covering their noses and mouths. Excuse me, this place is not an exemption.

The executive order mentions “public conveyances” which includes jeepneys, taxicabs, tricycles, and other public utility vehicles, rail transit, airplanes and ships. There is no way transport passenger terminals are exempted.

However, that is just how it works here. They want law enforcers to be strict in implementing the executive order and cry foul when force is used.

I hope there will be strict enforcement that will come in surprise like when they arrest people smoking in random public places. This way, people will be kept on their toes. They will realize how serious the smoking ban is.

I hope there will be heavier penalties not only on smokers but also on owners of public establishments that allow smoking in their premises. The number of affected people is staggering and we have all the reasons to ban and strictly implement the ban on smoking in public places.

This is not just about following rules and regulations. The bottom line here is people’s health. Smoking affects almost everyone – from children, second-hand smokers, and the smokers themselves. This should not be disregarded. When it comes to health, smoking may develop heart disease, stroke and lung cancer. We don’t want this to happen to us and to others.

The City of Davao made public places healthier. Why not the entire Philippines try and do it, too? If done, Philippines will be a better place.


(Atty. Ayin Dream D. Aplasca practices her profession in Iloilo City. She may be reached thru ayindream.aplasca@gmail.com/PN)
[/av_textblock]

[/av_one_full]

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here