Baguio City No Smoking Ordinance

Fortunately I saw two friends this morning along Session Road that has been closed to traffic for the last week of Panagbenga.  Incidentally the three of us are smokers and it is only the other one who told us that the Baguio City No Smoking Ordinance covers all public spaces including streets and parks.

The latest articles that showed on my search about the ordinance was dated December 7, 2010 and December 10, 2010.  The articles were about the ordinance and not the ordinance itself and only referred to "Republic Act 9211 (Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003)or the Clean Air Act and the Comprehensive Anti-smoking ordinance of Baguio".  Another one, "Republic Act 8749 or the Clean Air Act to achieve 100% smoke free environment".

What was clearly stated in the articles, the ordinance bans smoking in all public places, including pedestrian overpasses and public utility vehicles.  The articles also mentioned that "No Smoking Signs" will be displayed to make people aware of it.  For the past weeks, I have walked up and down Session Road several times and on other sidestreets but not a single sign and most of the time I was smoking.  Also there were many others who were smoking, maybe also unaware as I am.

I respect the non-smokers.  However, how will one abide by the ordinance or law if it does not clearly state or define the public places?  Many times it is not reliable to listen to people who just hang around listening and making gossips and hearsays.  What seems to be right for them is often exaggerated if not wrong.