Davao City apprehends over 3,000 smoking violators in January-April
DAVAO CITY’s Vices Regulation Unit (VRU) recorded over 3,000 people caught violating the new Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance from Jan. to April this year. “This is attributed to the intensified anti-smoking campaign of the city and not necessarily because there was an increase in the number of smokers,” Dr. Ashley M. Lopez, VRU head and Anti-Smoking Task Force co-chair, said in an interview. The city recently marked the 16th year anniversary of the local anti-smoking campaign. “We have increased the Anti-Smoking Task Force enforcers; we have also trained volunteers to help in the implementation of the anti-smoking campaign,” said Mr. Lopez, adding that Barangay Anti-Smoking Teams have also been formed to monitor smoking violations in the communities. — Carmencita A. Carillo
