The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that it will check the 100-meter perimeter of public and private schools for establishments that sell, advertise and promote e-cigarettes and other tobacco products.
The MMDA said violators will receive verbal warnings if they are found smoking within the said distance from the schools.
The initiative is part of the agency’s preparations for the opening of the school year 2019 to 2020 in June.
It also 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 in a statement released on Tuesday.
A massive information drive will also be conducted by distributing leaflets to store owners, students, teachers, and public utility vehicle drivers containing 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.
The MMDA is also looking to enhance pedestrian lanes near the schools to protect crossing children and to increase visibility to drivers. /rrd
The post MMDA to inspect school perimeters for e-cigarettes, tobacco products appeared first on UNTV News.