Civil Service orders total smoking ban in all health facilities, schools

MANILA, Philippines – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has ordered a total smoking ban in all state health facilities, schools and universities.

In a recently issued memorandum circular, the CSC also prohibited smoking in all other government premises, building and grounds, except in open areas designated as smoking areas.

It likewise prohibited smoking in government vehicles and ordered ashtrays and other receptacles for dispensing cigarette butts removed from non-smoking areas.

The CSC said the move aims “to ensure a healthy and productive workforce,” and government workers caught violating the new rules “will be met with disciplinary action under civil service laws and rules.”

According to the CSC, the circular is based on Republic Act 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 and the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

No smoking areas will be designated in areas implementing the total ban on smoking.

As for other agencies, a smoking area should be an outdoor space with the following requirements: it should be located in an open space with no permanent or temporary roof or walls; not within 10 meters of entrances, exits or any place where people pass and congregate; and with an area not larger than 10 square meters.

In each agency that is not covered by the total ban, there should only be one designated smoking area per building, and food and drinks should not be served in that area. –Reinir Padua, Philippine Star