By Aerol John Pateña/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will inspect the selling and promoting of cigarettes and other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, within the 100-meter perimeter of public and private schools.
Violators will receive verbal warnings if they were found to be smoking within the said distance from the schools, according to the agency.
The initiative, which is part of the MMDA’s preparations for the opening of the school year next month, aims to raise awareness on tobacco control and promoting a safer and healthier environment.
“Health and sanitation, urban protection and pollution control are among the seven mandates of the MMDA. We are tasked to promote and safeguard the health and sanitation of Metropolitan Manila especially the youth who will become our future leaders,” MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim said in a statement on Tuesday.
The agency will be distributing leaflets to store owners, students, teachers, and public utility vehicle drivers containing the provisions of the law on access restriction and effects of smoking and cigarette smoke and conduct orientation on the dangers of smoking to high school students in public secondary schools.
“Our health environmental officers will be posting signage in public facilities to supplement these efforts,” Lim said.
The MMDA will likewise enhance pedestrian lanes near the school to protect children crossing and to increase visibility to drivers.
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