BAGUIO CITY — A proposed ordinance authored by Councilor Edison Bilog aims to prohibit the sale, distribution, possession, and use of “tuklaw” cigarettes to protect public health, uphold community safety, and shield the youth from potential harm.
The proposed ordinance explicitly prohibits Tuklaw or similar cigarettes anywhere in the city.
A “tuklaw” cigarette is a tobacco product allegedly laced with intoxicating or hallucinogenic substances.
“These substances are believed to produce abnormal psychological and physiological effects on users, including disorientation, aggression, and unpredictable behavior, thus posing a serious risk to public safety and mental health, especially among young people and students,” Bilog stated.
He said that “tuklaw” and similar cigarette products are reportedly being distributed in informal markets, side streets, and even near schools, often targeting underprivileged or supervised youth, making them highly susceptible to exploitation and addiction.
The ordinance establishes a presumption of intent to sell or distribute when a person is caught with multiple sticks, packs, or related paraphernalia, unless proven otherwise.
Violators will face a fine of P3,000.00 and confiscation of the prohibited cigarettes for the first offense.
A second offense will result in a P5,000.00 fine and/or imprisonment for up to 30 days.
For the third and succeeding offenses, the penalty will be a P5,000.00 fine, imprisonment for 30 to 60 days, and in the case of business establishments, the cancellation of their business permits.
The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) will be designated as the primary enforcement body, working with the City Health Services Office (CHSO), Public Order and Safety Division (POSD), barangay officials, and other agencies.
Surprise inspections, sting operations, and regular monitoring will be authorized to curb the further proliferation of these kinds of cigarettes.
The proposed ordinance has been approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council and referred to the Committee on Health and Sanitation, Ecology, and Environmental Protection for review.
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