The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has expressed its utmost support to the initiatives of the local government of Malabon with regards to its anti-smoking implementation.
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 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 Benhur Abalos lauds the initiatives of Malabon 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.”
“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,” Abalos stressed.
Some of these initiatives include posting of the copy of ordinance in 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.
For her part, 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.”
“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.
The MMDA recently conducted a training for the members of Malabon City Smoke-Free Task Force held at Malabon 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.
