Group wants designated smoking areas removed

MANILA, Philippines — For the protection of the public, especially children, a group of health advocates yesterday called for the removal of all designated smoking and vaping areas (DSVAs) nationwide.

Health Justice Philippines  said 100-percent smoke- and vape-free public places and conveyances will keep people safe from respiratory diseases and other smoking-related illnesses.

“If our laws are revised to remove the establishment of smoking and vaping areas in public areas, then our children are assured that the public places they go to are safe from harmful effects of tobacco,” the group said in a statement.

According to the group, the removal of DSVAs will help prevent illnesses caused by second-hand smoke from smokers and vapers.

Under existing laws, the use of tobacco products, like cigarettes and vapes, is only prohibited in indoor public spaces or conveyances. However, DSVAs in these places are allowed.

The group explained that DSVAs weaken existing laws and the protection afforded to the public from harmful exposure to tobacco.

Results of the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey showed that 29.3 percent of Filipinos age 13 to 15 were exposed to secondhand smoke at home and 41.7 percent in enclosed public spaces.