The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be checking if cigarettes and other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, are being sold or promotes within the 100 meters of public and private schools.
Smokers will also receive verbal warnings if they were found to be smoking within 100 meters from schools, the MMDA added.
The initiative, which is part of the MMDA’s preparations for the opening of the school year, aims to raise awareness on tobacco control and promoting a safer and healthier environment.
“Health and sanitation, urban protection and pollution control are among the seven mandates of the MMDA. We are tasked to promote and safeguard the health and sanitation of Metropolitan Manila especially the youth who will become our future leaders,” MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim said.
“We are tasked to promote and safeguard the health and sanitation of Metropolitan Manila especially the youth.”
The agency will be distributing leaflets to store owners, students, teachers, and public utility vehicle drivers stating the provisions of the law on access restriction and effects of smoking and cigarette smoke and conduct orientation on the dangers of smoking to high school students in public secondary schools.
“Our health environmental officers will be posting signage in public facilities to supplement these efforts,” Lim said.
“Our health environmental officers will be posting signage in public facilities.”
The MMDA will likewise enhance pedestrian lanes near the school to protect children crossing and to increase visibility to motorists.