October 20, 2025 | News by PISD
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) led the a Stakeholders’ Meeting to discuss the implementation of Provincial Ordinance No. 178-2024, aimed to strengthen the campaign against smoking, tobacco, and e-cigarettes.
Dr. Cielo Angela A. Ante, Provincial Health Officer II and OIC Chief of Hospital (OMPH) emphasized the importance of strengthened collaboration among various sectors to ensure the proper implementation of the ordinance.
Representatives from various departments of the Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro (PGOM), Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), various health institutions, and other concerned agencies attended the meeting.
Board Member Faye Ilano, chairperson of the Committee on Women and Gender Equality, Welfare of Children and Family Relations, and the Committee on Good Government, Public Ethics and Accountability, and Government Enterprises, and among the proponents of the said ordinance was also present.
BM Ilano expressed the Provincial Board’s continued support for health programs, particularly in the implementation of policies aimed at reducing and preventing the use of cigarettes, especially in public places.
Key provisions and proposed amendments of the Provincial Ordinance No. 178-2024, including regulations on smoke-free public spaces, the prohibition of cigarette sales to minors, the implementation of a stricter anti-smoking campaign, and the discussion of fines and suspensions for violators were discussed on the meeting.
Representatives from various departments also shared their observations, suggestions, and experiences regarding the enforcement of anti-smoking laws, to further strengthen health programs and to promote a healthy and safer environment for all residents of Oriental Mindoro.