MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health admitted that implementing the nationwide smoking ban that took effect three months ago remains a challenge.
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the full and effective implementation of Executive Order No. 26 continues to face challenges, especially from local government units.
“It is easy to have an EO but the success of its implementation is another story,” said Duque.
To identify the challenges and find ways to address them, Duque said he intends to dialogue with LGUs that have had successes in implementing tobacco control policies, including those like Davao and Makati cities that are were among the recipients of the Red Orchid Awards, which is given to local governments with outstanding initiatives in creating a smoke-free environment.
“We want to know what are the real implementation challenges,” he said.
Executive Order No. 26, which took effect in July, prohibits smoking in all enclosed public places and public conveyances except in designated smoking areas.
