BAGUIO CITY – Re-elected Representative Mark Go, councilor Joel Alangsab and health services office medical officer IV Donnabel Panes led other local government, health, police and barangay officials including Smoke-Free Baguio Task Force (SFBTF) members in the unveiling of an anti-cigarette smoking and vaping signage at the Hilltop city market waiting shed Tuesday.
SFBTF information officer Catherine Cimatu said seven similar signages will also be put up in the city’s parks and four larger signages along the major entryways to the Summer Capital or twelve in all.
The unveiling was preceded by a short program at the area with messages from the two city officials including an orientation of the Smoke-Free Baguio Ordinance (Ord. No. 34, series of 2017) and a warning on the ill-effects of cigarette smoking and vaping on one’s health and that of their loved ones.
It ended with a Cordillera unity dance led by the city hall cultural dance troupe joined by all those present including officials of Upper Market and Hilltop-Kayang barangays and public order and safety division personnel.
Principally authored by councilor Joel Alangsab, the measure prohibits the use, sale, distribution and advertisement of cigarettes/e-cigarettes and other tobacco products in certain places, imposing penalties, and providing funds thereof.
If caught smoking or vaping, penalties are P1,000 fine for first offense; P2,000, second; and 3,000, third offense. Penalties for sales/access restriction, ads and promotion are P2,000, first offense; P3,000, second; and P5,000, third offense.
Subsequent offenses are punishable by fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months or both at the court’s discretion and suspension or revocation of business license or permit, if applicable.
The task force is currently chaired by outgoing Mayor Mauricio Domogan with city health officer Rowena Galpo as co-chair and action officer. Members include representatives from various concerned government offices and agencies, Department of Education, Baguio City Police Office, non-government organizations, barangays, academe and other sectors.**gaby keith
