- Cigarette smoking will be prohibited on May 9 in all voting zones throughout the country
- The move is in accordance with CSC Memorandum Circular No. 17, s. 2009 or the ‘Smoking Prohibition Based on 100% Smoke-Free Environment Policy in all voting precincts
- There are 36,788 voting centers and 92,509 clustered precincts nationwide
All voting precincts will become 100% smoke-free environments on May 9 elections.
This was disclosed by the COMELEC noting that the move is in reaction to the request made by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) headed by Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala to prohibit cigarette smoking in all voting precincts throughout the country during the onset of the upcoming polls.
An article published by GMA News Online stated that COMELEC Chairman Andres Bautista acted immediately on the request of the CSC.
The request was made via a letter, asking the CSC to enforce CSC Memorandum Circular No. 17, s. 2009 or the Smoking Prohibition Based on 100% Smoke-Free Environment Policy in all voting precincts.
“As we continue to protect the interest of the public, the role of the COMELEC is indispensable in securing smoke-free environments for our voters, volunteers and everyone who will participate in the proceedings inside our precincts,” Bala was quoted saying.
Meanwhile, by virtue of a resolution, the poll body approved CSC’s request for assistance to enforce a smoking ban in all voting precincts during the coming polls.
Based on COMELEC records, there are 36,788 voting centers and 92,509 clustered precincts nationwide in the forthcoming polls.
In relation to the election, the COMELEC earlier stressed it will provide a hotline to assist people who may have queries on Election Day.
As such, the commission has approved the establishment of a P2-million Voter Care Center which could be contacted by those who will have concerns on May 9.
An article published by the Philippine Star mentioned that COMELEC personnel man the center to take calls and would refer the people’s concerns to concerned authorities.
The center will be equipped with a telecommunication system and monitors.
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