One of the last cities in the country without such a measure
Koronadal City — A public hearing on the proposed Anti-Smoking and Anti-Vaping Ordinance is currently being held at the City Hall lobby, aiming to regulate smoking and vaping in public places across the city.
The hearing is led by Hon. Annabelle G. Pingoy, Chairperson of the Committee on Oversight, along with committee members Councilors Ma. Ester M. Catorce, Ellen Grace Subere-Albios, and Francis Ross Dideles. They were also joined by Councilor Bernardo Hinay and City Environment and Natural Resources Officer Augustus Bretaña, who is the program holder for the ordinance.
Representatives from various sectors—including barangay officials, transport groups, the business community, education institutions, and other stakeholders—attended the hearing. The ordinance’s objectives, penalties for violations, and public recommendations were discussed during an open forum.
Councilor Pingoy emphasized the importance of public participation in crafting effective legislation. “It’s crucial to hear the concerns of the community before finalizing the ordinance,” she said.
Interestingly, Koronadal remains one of the few remaining cities in the Philippines without an anti-smoking ordinance. The move to finally adopt such a measure is seen as a significant step toward promoting public health and aligning with national efforts to reduce tobacco and vape use in public spaces.
The final draft of the ordinance is expected to be submitted in the upcoming sessions of the City Council.