6 reasons why we must pass the Smoke-Free Environment Bill NOW

1. 100% smoke-free public spaces and workplaces.

The bill expands the definition of public spaces where people of all ages must not inhale toxic smoke from tobacco products. Under the proposed law, public spaces will include workplaces, terminals and public transport vehicles, markets, restaurants and bars, entrances and exits of establishments, beach resorts, and centers of youth activity such as schools and playgrounds.

Smoking in public spaces will result in a PHP 2,000 to PHP 3,000 fine, together with the confiscation of the tobacco product or device.

2. Second-hand smoke affects young children the most.

According to the World Health Organization, 700 million children are exposed to second-hand smoke globally.

The nicotine in tobacco products permanently changes the developing brain of young children, which leads to increased risks of substance dependence and abuse as well as lifelong behavioral problems.

Studies have also shown that exposure of pregnant mothers to second-hand smoke can greatly affect their unborn children, increasing the risks of premature birth, low birth weight, congenital disabilities, respiratory infections, asthma, and even sudden infant death. 

Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

3. No more indoor designated smoking areas.

Under the Smoke-Free Environment Bill, designated smoking areas must be situated in an outdoor open space. They should be 10 meters from entrances, exits, or places where people pass by or congregate. Indoor designated smoking areas will not be allowed.

Every smoking area must also display prominent smoking area signage, graphic health warnings, and signage on the prohibition of the entry of minors.

Violation will result in a PHP 10,000 to PHP 20,000 fine and possible revocation of the establishment’s license consistent with the rules of the local government unit.

4. It creates the Smoke-Free Task Force.

The local government must allocate 3% of the local health budget to implement the Smoke-Free Environment Law and operate the Smoke-Free Task Force, which the City Mayor will head.

5. It will be good for the economy.

The Philippine economy loses more than PHP 300 billion yearly from just four tobacco-related diseases: lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, coronary artery disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Passing a Smoke-Free Environment Law will protect the public from the health risks of inhaling second-hand smoke.

Reference: 2009 Philippines’ Global Adult Tobacco Survey Country Report

6. Passing a law is more permanent and potent.

While the Philippines has an existing Executive Order on smoke-free public spaces, a law that will pass through Philippine Congress is much more permanent, addresses policy gaps, and cannot be easily replaced. A law also ensures a sufficient budget to implement a policy.

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The only way to protect non-smokers and vulnerable children from second-hand smoke is to ensure smoke-free homes, public spaces, and workplaces.

Call on our legislators to pass the Smoke-Free Environment Bill now.

SIGN THE PETITION!

#SmokeFreeEnvironmentNOW