Tacurong Anti-Smoking Task Force discuss awareness strategies

The Tacurong Anti-smoking Task Force (TAS-TF), headed by Mayor Lina O. Montilla, conducted its first meeting on February 27, 2013 to finalize public awareness strategies on the city’s anti smoking-ordinance.
The ordinance was approved in 2012 and officials are very eager to facilitate citizens’ awareness on the ordinance’s provisions. Officials are willing to take things slowly—but surely—especially for the smoking public.

“Unti-unti, ipaalala natin sa mga mamamayan na bawal na talaga ang manigarilyo sa pampublikong lugar. Bigyan natin sila ng panahon pero siguruhin natin na susunod pa rin sila sa batas,” said Hon. Psyche Sucaldito, one of the authors of the ordinance.

TAS-TF had already conducted an information drive in barangays and in the puroks of Brgy. Poblacion. Billboards have also been put up in the entrance and exit points of the city. Business establishments were also oriented during the renewal of permits. Stickers bearing ‘This is a non-smoking establishment’ were also distributed during the period.

Members of the task force agreed for the posting of reminders in public places, especially in the market and terminal, in schools, and in establishments.

Among other matters discussed were the training of enforcers, identification of smoking areas in the public market, prohibition of cigarette sale to minors and students, and conduct of extensive information and education campaign.

Members of the task force also agreed to provide citizens with an anti-smoking hotline to ease reporting of violations.

Vice Chairpersons of TAS-TF are Hon. Psyche Sucaldito (Chair of Committee on Environment), Hon. Joseph George Lechonsito (Chair of Committee on Health), and Hon. Ariel Ferdinand dela Cruz (Chair of Committee on Education). Members include Hon. Rodrigo Jamorabon (Chair of Committee on Peace and Order); the City Administrator; the City Environment and Natural Resources Officer; City Health Officer; City Engineer; City Treasurer; Information Officer; the City Legal Officer; Market Supervisor; Terminal Supervisor; DepEd Superintendent Gildo Mosqueda; PNP Chief Junny Buenacosa; and Tacurong Market Vendors Association President.

ASTF was created through City Executive Order No. 03-2013.