Arteche’s Smoke Free Ordinance Earns National Recognition

November 21, 2024Announcement Arteche is proud to be the first Smoke Free municipality in Eastern Samar to earn the first Red Orchid Award (ROA)   in 2018, an elusive award given to municipalities who successfully implemented the 100% tobacco free  environment standard set by the World Health Organization and Department of Health. This is attributed to Mayor Roland Boie Evardone’s adamant political will in the efficient implementation of the Municipality’s Smoke Free Ordinance. The Smoke Free Ordinance of Arteche enacted in 2017  elicited different reactions including public scrutiny and disapproval but Mayor Evardone and his team did not falter in implementing this campaign and  came out victorious in the end. The ordinance prohibits smoking in public places, selling or distributing tobacco products in all facilities or places frequented by minors and within 100 meters from any point in the perimeter of these places; and advertising tobacco products.  Numerous violators were apprehended on its first year of implementation signifying the LGUs commitment in providing a clean and healthy environment for the Artechehanons. . The fight continues today and every day after. In this poto, LGU conducted a Smoke Free Task Force Deputation Training that will strengthen the Municipal Smoke-Free Ordinance of Arteche, by deputizing the Brgy. Captains, Kagawad on Peace and Order and Brgy Tanods to apprehend the violators of this ordinance. These Brgy Officials will significantly help our PNP to effectively implement this ordinance in all Barangays of Arteche. This has a huge impact to the lives of our children and a milestone that will not be erased in the pages of our history.