MANILA, Philippines -- The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has been conferred with award for “championing the rights of non-smokers to breathe tobacco free air in public places of the metropolis” during the final leg of the Baguio City to Metro Manila PMA2PMA Smoke Free Philippines and Healthy lifestyle run.

At the closing ceremony of the week long health advocacy run the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), President Dr.  Oscar D. Tinio awarded MMDA chairman Francis N. Tolentino a plaque of recognition declaring him their 2011 Smoke Free Champion for Metro Manila.

“ We at the health sector would like to thank you for your unwavering dedication in the fight to keep Metro Manila Smoke Free despite the odds. The Metro Manila wide smoking ban that you have imposed is proof that you have the political will needed to implement what is right for our people.  Because of this you have championed the rights of non-smokers to breathe tobacco free air in public places of the metropolis.” Tinio, during the awarding ceremony.

“I thanked the Smoke Free Philippines coalition for your support. Let us be more vigilant in our fight to keep Metro Manila Smoke Free” Tolentino added.