TALISAYAN Rural Health Officer Dr. Gay Ardanas is firmly opposing any amendment to the town’s Smoke-Free Ordinance, pointing out that the measure has been fully implemented since its approval in 2008.
Her defense of the ban comes after Town Mayor Ciriaco Talines announced his plan to review the ordinance.
Dr. Ardanas said the 100% smoking ban has been in place for more than 13 years across the entire municipality.
Mayor Talines confirmed he would study the ordinance’s review, noting that cigarettes generate revenue for the town.
However, he acknowledged that smoking is bad for health and only needs to be regulated. He suggested that every establishment, especially restaurants, must have a designated smoking area.
The plan to review the ordinance is based on requests he received, Mayor Talines said.
He added that amending the measure would not be easy because it will still go through a public consultation.
Despite the mayor’s stance, Dr. Ardanas is adamant about not tinkering with the smoking ban.
Councilor Joveline Bernaldez-Asuncion, chair of the Committee on Health, also expressed strong opposition to any changes.
She cited that her husband, former Councilor Jojac Asuncion, authored the original ordinance, calling it her husband’s legacy.
Asuncion noted the town has maintained its smoke-free status for over 13 years and has received national recognition as a result. She specifically mentioned that Talisayan received the prestigious Red Orchid Award from the Department of Health-10.
She added that Talisayan was one of the first municipalities to receive a Red Orchid Award in 2009 and again in 2011, ultimately achieving Hall of Fame status.
Meanwhile, Provincial Board Member Rommel Maslog, the former town mayor who implemented the total ban, echoed the opposition.
He argued that regulation is unnecessary, stating that smoking should only be done inside private homes and away from family members.
