Manila dads set higher fines for smokers

MANILA, Philippines - Violators of the smoking ban in Manila are facing higher penalties and may spend up to three days in jail.

Last Thursday, the Manila City council unanimously approved on third and final reading Ordinance 7812, authored by the sixth district Councilor Casimiro Sison.

The recently approved ordinance also prohibited the mere possession of electronic cigarettes or “vapes.”

The ordinance imposes a P2,000 fine, one day in jail or both for the first offense; a P3,000 fine or two days in jail for the second; and a P5,000 fine or three days in jail for the third.

It updated the existing penalties imposed by City Ordinance 7748 passed in 1991, which mandated that violators are fined P300 and spend a maximum of two days in detention. 

Meanwhile, it also aimed to support the implementation of the 1991 ordinance that bans smoking in all enclosed public spaces and establishments as well as public utility vehicles. 

Aside from inside buildings, the smoking ban also covers areas within the compounds of these establishments and within 100 meters from city government properties.

Establishments are also mandated to set up smoking areas not more than 10 meters away from where people pass or gather, with signages like “smoking area” or “no minors allowed” complete with graphic warnings posted.