The city governmentâs Vices Regulation Unit (VRU) has reported a rise in the number of apprehensions of the anti-smoking ordinance and the liquor ban violators in the first half of the year.
Dr. Ashley Lopez, the head of the VRU, bared the number of apprehensions reached 9,116 from January to August. As a result, the city collected P5.3 million in fines.
According to Lopez, the figure is higher compared to the same period last year which saw 6,302 apprehensions.
Lopez attributed the increase in apprehension to the intensified campaign of the VRU against people who continue to violate rules of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance and the law banning sale/serving of alcohol after midnight.
âWe have also apprehended some tourists,â said Lopez. âWe no longer give warning to our foreign visitors because the moment they arrive here, they were already informed â through the airlines, ships, and even media campaign about our laws.â
Lopez said that repeat violators are charged in court.
âThose who will be apprehended repeatedly will face fines, penalties, and even imprisonment,â he said.
Lopez also bared its proposal to increase the penalties in the smoking and liquor ban ordinances to encourage people to stop smoking and regulate their drinking.
Lopez said the VRU âquit smokingâ campaign is targeting students who smoke cigarettes at an early age. CIO
