The San Juan City local government, led by Mayor Francis Zamora, was recognized by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for its strict enforcement of its ordinance regulating the sale, use, distribution, and advertisement of cigarettes and tobacco-related products within city limits.
“The MMDA is constantly assisting the San Juan LGU in strengthening its workforce tasked to increase the level of awareness and compliance of the residents to smoke-free environment policies,” MMDA chairman Atty. Romando Artes said as he acknowledged the relentless efforts of the city government in protecting its constituents from the continuing danger posed by smoking.
Passed by the San Juan City Council in March, Ordinance Number 14 Series of 2024 or the Comprehensive Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Ordinance of San Juan City led to the creation of the San Juan Smoke-Free Task Force which closely monitors public spaces against smokers.
The ordinance also fines violators from P2,000 to P5,000
"Fully-compliant with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), the ordinance underscores the city’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all its stakeholders and break the culture of smoking and tobacco consumption especially by minors. It establishes stringent standards for designated smoking and vaping areas to minimize exposure to harmful substances," the city government said.
"Additionally, it regulates promotional materials to prevent their influence on the community, eliminating aggressive marketing practices that may target vulnerable populations and ensuring that public spaces remain free from tobacco and vaping advertisements," it added.