The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has commended Malabon City for promoting the government’s anti-smoking regulations to protect people from lung cancer and other ailments.
Malabon City has been implementing its City Ordinance No. 14-2018 which bans smoking (including vape and e-cigarettes) in certain public spaces, government buildings, schools, hospitals, and in public vehicles and transport terminals.
As stipulated in the ordinance, barangay officials and members of the Barangay Security Force have the authority to enforce their smoke-free policy.
MMDA chairman Benjamin Abalos Jr. lauded the initiatives of the city for its continued efforts to promote anti-smoking campaigns to protect the health and well-being of its residents.
“Tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke is dangerous. Hence, we have to keep ourselves healthy amidst the pandemic to avoid respiratory diseases as well as COVID-19 complications,” he said.
Some of these initiatives include posting of a copy of the ordinance on barangay bulletin boards, public awareness campaign by utilization of public address system, development of barangay maps showing the points of reference like schools, playgrounds, among others.
Dr. Loida Alzona, director of MMDA Health and Environmental Protection Office, said that capacity building among barangay officials and members must be intensified.
“Through the conduct of capacity building, it would give them a broader view of the proper implementation of the ordinance against smoking. Apart from capacity building, coordination with neighboring barangays is highly recommended,” Alzona added.
Last month, the MMDA conducted a training for the members of Malabon City Smoke-Free Task Force held at City Hall to equip them with knowledge and skills in the implementation of their local ordinance on smoke-free environment. A total of 29 barangay officials and personnel participated in the training.