BAGUIO CITY – A total of 41 establishments, including a funeral parlor, have been recommended by the Smoke-Free Baguio Task Force for closure due to repeated violations of the city's Smoke-Free Ordinance, particularly City Ordinance No. 34, Series of 2017.

According to Mayor Benjamin Magalong, head of the Smoke-Free Baguio Task Force, the establishments have repeatedly violated and failed to comply with regulations aimed at protecting the public from exposure to tobacco smoke and other smoking-related products in prohibited areas.

Magalong directed the Permit and Licensing Division to take appropriate action against the establishments and implement the necessary closure procedures in accordance with the ordinance.

Located in various parts of the city, the flagged establishments were 21 night restaurants and bars, nine sari-sari stores, five restaurant-cafes, three dry goods stores, two entertainment centers, and a memorial chapel.

Individuals caught smoking in prohibited areas will be fined P1,000 for the first offense, P2,000 for the second offense, and P3,000 for the third offense.

Third-time violators may also face up to three months of imprisonment at the discretion of the court, along with community service and confiscation of tobacco or vaping products.

Establishments that fail to comply with the ordinance or repeatedly allow violations within their premises may be fined up to P5,000 and have their business permits revoked.

The strict enforcement of the Smoke-Free Ordinance is part of the local government’s ongoing efforts to promote public health and maintain a healthy environment for residents and visitors.

Magalong also directed members of the SFBTF to launch a more aggressive and sustained campaign against vaping in line with the opening of classes in the city.

He said efforts to enforce the city ordinance which covers vaping prohibition, although already being implemented continuously in the city, have to be stepped up further to make a lasting impact.

Magalong emphasized that consistent enforcement would discourage the illegal sale of vape products in the city. He said sellers would eventually realize that operating in Baguio is no longer profitable if authorities maintain a strong and sustained campaign.