Advisers

Denise Anne G. Osorio, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Cigarette smoking remains a major public health concern in the Philippines, affecting both smokers and individuals exposed to secondhand smoke. To address this issue, the government enacted Republic Act No. 9211, also known as the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, which regulates the sale, distribution, and promotion of tobacco products and requires health warnings on packaging. In support of this national policy, this study examines the implementation and impact of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance in Barangay Balon Bato, Quezon City. The study aimed to assess the level of enforcement, community awareness, compliance, and the ordinance’s effect on smoking behavior. A quantitative descriptive research design was used to evaluate the implementation of the ordinance. The study involved fifty (50) respondents, composed of twenty-five smokers and twenty-five non-smokers, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a validated and pilot-tested survey questionnaire that included questions on demographic profile, smoking behavior, awareness of the ordinance, and perceptions of compliance. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and ranking. T-tests were also applied to determine significant differences in perceptions when grouped according to age, sex, and length of residency. The findings revealed that the Anti-Smoking Ordinance is generally well implemented in Barangay Balon Bato. Most respondents agreed that the ordinance has reduced smoking in public places and increased awareness of its rules and penalties. Both smokers and non-smokers demonstrated a high level of awareness. Respondents also perceived that barangay officials regularly monitor compliance and remind violators, contributing to improved discipline in the community. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in perceptions when respondents were grouped according to age, sex, and length of residency. The results show that the Anti-Smoking Ordinance has a positive effect in Barangay Balon Bato. Most residents follow the rules and understand the importance of the ordinance. Regular monitoring by barangay officials helps improve compliance. However, there are still some problems, such as limited personnel, lack of clear signage, and weak support from some establishments. Improving these areas can make the ordinance more effective in protecting public health.

Keywords

Awareness, Policy Implementation, Anti-Smoking Ordinance, republic act no. 9211, tobacco regulation act of 2003, public health, community compliance, smoking behavior