By Ahikam Pasion/Philippine News Agency
DAGUPAN CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office in Pangasinan reiterated its warning to retailers and even sari-sari store owners not to sell any tobacco product to minors in line with the Department of Education’s “Eskwela Ban sa Sigarilyo” program.
Natalia Dalaten, officer-in-charge – provincial director of DTI-Pangasinan, said in accordance with Republic Act 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act, tobacco products should not be sold or even advertised within 100 meters from schools, public playgrounds, or places commonly visited by minors.
“We will not hesitate to file a complaint against violators if we received reports from retailers or stores who sell cigarettes to minors,” she said.
Under the law, violators could be fined more than PHP100,000 for their first offense, jail time not exceeding one year, or both – all depending on the court’s discretion.
“Aside from selling and advertising, smokers are also required to smoke in designated areas,” she said,
Dalaten also reminded Pangasinenses of the adverse effects of smoking, as seen the packaging’s graphic warning.
Authorities also urged people to take care of their health, and if possible, refrain from smoking.
The Department of Health reported that annually, some 87,600 Filipinos die from tobacco-related diseases.
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