LEGAZPI CITY MOVES FORWARD TOWARDS A 100% SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT

The City Government of Legazpi finds strong alliance and support from the Civil Service Commission in implementing a 100% smoke-free environment policy based on the CSC’s latest Memorandum Circular 17, series 2009 dated May 29, 2009 signed by Chairman Ricardo Saludo.

Said Memorandum Circular provides guidelines and directs ALL government offices to make all areas of their premises and grounds totally free from smoking. Smoking may be allowed but in a designated smoking area in OUTDOOR SPACES ONLY. There are guidelines in putting a smoking area, and these will be fully discussed to the public.

Legazpi City is the first local government unit (LGU) which recognized the importance of the CSC policy.

At the press conference hosted by Mayor Noel Rosal at Legazpi City Hall today, Civil Service Commission Director for Albay – Mr. Arpon U. Lucero said that a series of events tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23, 2009, will be held in collaboration with Legazpi City’s Smoke-Free Committee to fully inform and educate the public about 100% smoke-free environment policy of the government. Civil Service Commission is also celebrating its 109th anniversary this September.

Among the activities include foot parade from BU Grounds to Albay Penaranda Park at six o-clock in the morning (6:00AM), a slogan contest, and forum at the Ibalong Conference Room (ICR) Hall at 9:00AM. The theme is: “TOWARDS 100% SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT”.

The Department of Health is also implementing the Rules and Regulations Promoting a 100% Smoke-Free Environment among public and private hospitals, clinics, etc based on DOH Administrative Order No.10. Likewise, the DILG has previously issued two memorandum circulars already directing all local government units to strongly implement and enforce the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2009 or the RA 9211. DENR-EMB is also celebrating the international ozone layer day. These agencies, with full support from the Department of Education (DepED) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the City’s Smoke-Free Committee and the people of Legazpi City are hopeful towards a 100% smoke-free environment.