The Metro Manila Council (MMC) recently approved the use of Geographical Information System (GIS) for the issuance of business permits and licenses related to the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products including e-cigarettes as part of its efforts in prohibiting the sale of such products near schools and other areas frequented by minors.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Don Artes explained that Resolution No. 24-31 enjoins all local government units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region (NCR) to enact ordinances on the use and sale of smoking products especially near public areas.
"As stipulated in Republic Act 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, and Republic Act 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, the selling of these products is prohibited within a 100-meter perimeter of schools, playgrounds, and other areas of youth activities," the MMDA said.
Artes explained that this strategy is one of the agency's major support to NCR LGUs under the Smoke Free Project, stressing the need to strengthen and strictly enforce vape and tobacco control policies by crafting their respective local ordinances.
"Ordinances to be enacted by the LGUs must include provisions prohibiting ambulant or mobile vendors of cigarettes and electronic smoking products, as these vendors are capable of circumventing laws prohibiting the sale of such products within prohibited areas," Artes explained, underscoring that the use of GIS technology will provide an accurate and efficient means for LGUs to guarantee that locations are verified prior to the issuance of business permits and licenses.
GIS information is a tool to guide local governments before issuing or renewing business permits and licenses to ensure compliance with existing laws and ordinances.
NCR LGUs are also enjoined to enact rules on the display of signages prohibiting the sale of tobacco and e-cigarettes within the prohibited distance.
The signages shall include graphic health warning illustrations and legal citations.
The MMC, composed of the 17 Metro Manila mayors, is the governing and policy-making body of the MMDA.