Integrating the Anti-Smoking Campaign in the Oplan Balik-Eskwela Program

The Inter-Agency Project, Anti-Smoking Campaign of the Department of Education (DepED), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) shall be integrated in the Oplan Balik-Eskwela Program of this Department. Section 5 of Republic Act (RA) No. 9211 entitled "An Act Regulating the Packaging, Use, Sale, Distribution and Advertisements of Tobacco Products and for Other Purposes," also known as the "Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003," states that smoking shall be absolutely prohibited in the following public places:

1. centers of youth such as playschools, preparatory schools, elementary schools, high schools, colleges and universities, youth hostels and recreational facilities for persons under eighteen (18) years old;
2. elevators and stairwells;
3. location where fire hazards are present including gas stations and storage areas for flammable liquids, gas, explosives or combustible materials;
4. within the buildings and premises of public and private hospitals, medical, dental and optical clinics, health centers, nursing homes, dispensaries and laboratories;
5. public conveyance and public facilities including airports and ship terminals and train and bus stations, restaurants and conference halls, except for separate smoking areas; and
6. food preparation areas.
   

Furthermore, Section 10 of said Republic Act states that "the sale or distribution of tobacco products is prohibited within one hundred (100) meters from any point of the perimeter of a school, public playground or other facility frequented by minors."
 
In this regard, all concerned are enjoined to coordinate with the Local Government Unit (LGU), DepEd, DTI and DOH in their respective areas for the implementation of the said Program. - https://www.affordablecebu.com/