COMELEC, CSC: No smoking in all voting precincts on Election Day

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), acting on the request for assistance from the Civil Service Commission (CSC), has ordered to prohibit cigarette smoking in all voting precincts which will be located in schools, universities and colleges during the May 9, 2016 National and Local Elections.

CSC Chairperson Ms. Alicia dela Rosa-Bala, in a letter addressed to COMELEC Chairman J. Andres Bautista, requested the assistance of the COMELEC in enforcing 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. We believe that informing the public regarding the observance of MC 17 and other efforts relative to this will continue in protecting our constituents from second hand smoke," wrote Chairperson Bala.

In COMELEC Minute Resolution No. 16-0234, dated April 5, 2016, the COMELEC En Banc ruled to approve the CSC’s request for assistance to enforce a smoking ban in all voting precincts on Election Day.

There will be 36,788 voting centers and 92,509 clustered precincts nationwide for the May 9, 2016 National and Local Elections. ##

Source: Education and Information Department