LA TRINIDAD, Benguet (PIA) – – The Tobacco Control Board and the Smoking Control Enforcement Unit here are ironing out plans and activities to sustain the local government unit’s smoke-free environment program.
The LGU received last month P100,000.00 cash award and a plaque of recognition for winning the National Red Orchid Award of the Department of Health which recognizes tobacco-free environment in local government units, government agencies and government health facilities.
To sustain or even boost its implementation, the LGU is looking at how to address gaps or issues that arose during the program evaluation, said Dr. Genevieve Degay of the Municipal Health Services Office, who co-chairs the Tobacco Control Board.
Other campaign activities to take place next year to raise awareness on smoke-free environment include the conduct of jingle competitions and production and posting of billboards.
The municipal council approved the Tobacco Control Ordinance last year which served as basis in the regulation of tobacco products and other control measures.
To date, records of the La Trinidad Municipal Police Station showed 216 apprehensions of which 194 violators paid the corresponding fines while 22 did community service.
As of November, the Treasury Office was able to collect a total of P128,000.00 as charges from violations among individuals and establishments.**PIA Benguet
