The Philippine National Police (PNP) Ifugao tightened the implementation of the anti-smoking ordinance during the Gotad ad Ifugao 2025 in Lagawe, Ifugao.
The upkeep aims to facilitate clean environment, protect the health of the public, and prevent the harmful effects of smoking in public places.
The Municipal Ordinance No. 2024-148, known as the “Anti-Smoking Ordinance of the Municipality of Lagawe, Province of Ifugao,” was established to strictly prohibit smoking in public places. The ordinance aimed to promote a healthier environment and protect the public from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
As such, one of the strategies of the PNP to keep up implementation of the ordinace is the Oplan Tambuli or Police Service on wheels. It is a way to disseminate information and to deliver safety tips using loudspeakers or megaphones installed in patrol cars, and is being carried out to publicly remind both tourists and locals that smoking is strictly prohibited in public places and establishments throughout Lagawe.
“No taga ditoy gamin, amo da met daytoy nga patakaran nga nai-implement idi 2014, ticket nga sigud iti maited kenyada ngem no haan nga taga ditoy ket isu ti mawarningan (Local residents are aware of the ordinance since it was implemented since 2021, hence penezlied. While visitors or non-residents are usually just given a warning given they are uninformed of the ordinance),” said PMSgt Bal Dulnuan from the Lagawe Municipal Police Station.
A penalty is also imposed on those who violate the said ordinance: PhP 100 for the 1st offence; PhP 200 for the 2nd offence; and PhP 300 for the 3rd offence.
For visitors, a first warning will be given to inform tourists and encourage them to avoid smoking in accordance with the ordinance.
“Ada met ti kuna tayo nga municipal ordinance, i-explain tayo pay kenyada (tourists and visitors) nga adda iti patakaran nga masapol tayo nga suruen ditoy lagawe at buong Ifugao. Adda ti kanya kanya nga ordinance iti no smoking ken no chewing of ‘momma in public places (We explain the municipal ordinances to the public as it should be followed such as the no smoking and no chewing of momma in public places),” said PCpl Mario Gayyaman, a police officer from Alfonso Lista, has been deployed to Lagawe to assist with security and public order during Gotad ad Ifugao 2025.
Oplan Tambuli continues to be implemented to ensure cleanliness, order, and safety during the celebration of the Gotad ad Ifugao 2025. Its goal is to maintain a smooth flow of activities, promote discipline among attendees, and guarantee a safe and joyful celebration for everyone.// Karyle J. Sagubo, BSU-DevCom Intern
