Manila: President Rodrigo Duterte’s government expects a dramatic drop in the number of smokers in the Philippines, following the implementation of a nationwide smoking ban, a senior official has said.
On Sunday, July 23, the Philippines began enforcing Executive Order 26, which provides for the establishment of smoke-free environments in public and enclosed spaces.
“With our experience in Davao when we implemented the smoking ban in public places, many smokers decided to quit altogether,” Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial said.
Under the new law, it is prohibited to smoke cigarettes and cigars in schools, colleges, restaurants and other public areas including inside elevators, stairwells, malls and hotels.
Ubial said, because there would be fewer areas public areas where people are allowed to smoke, smokers will find it difficult to continue the habit.
“More smokers are expected to kick the habit that is known to cause cardiovascular diseases and cancer cases,” Ubial said.
The ban does not cover electronic cigarettes.
Smoking is a major cause of medical conditions such as lung cancer and other similar health concerns. The Philippine government spends billions of pesos every year on health care for lung disease patients.
Health department spokesperson Dr Eric Tayag said, with the public smoking ban, they expect an increase in the number of people seeking assistance to quit the habit.
“We have established a hotline, ‘QuitLine’ to help these people,” he said.
QuitLine gives smokers can get advice on steps how to quit smoking.
