19 May 2017 | 02:45 AM UTC
Philippines: Duterte orders public smoking ban throughout country May 16
President Rodrigo Duterte signs executive order on May 16 banning smoking in indoor and outdoor public spaces across the country; ban goes into effect in 60 days
Event
On Tuesday, May 16, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte signed an executive order banning public smoking throughout the country, with enforcement of the ban slated to begin in 60 days. The ban covers indoor and outdoor smoking (including the use of electronic cigarettes or “vaping”) and carries a maximum fine of PHP 5000 (USD 100) and up to four months in jail. Small designated smoking areas will be created for adults at least 10 m (33 ft) from building entrances and exits. Casinos and airports are included in the ban.
Context
The ban is one of the strictest in the region and is modeled after a similar ordinance Duterte created in Davao City in 2012. There are roughly 17 million smokers in the Philippines, including nearly half of the adult male population. Philippine public health organizations have battled the influential tobacco lobby for many years and have welcomed the president’s move to end public smoking.
Advice
Individuals present in the Philippines are advised to adhere to all government regulations.
