By Paulo Loreto Lim

The Bacolod Anti-Smoking Task Force (BASTF) recently reported 17 individuals were caught smoking in public, a violation of City Ordinance 641, which places an absolute prohibition of smoking in public areas.

According to members of the action team, violators were caught through operations conducted at Bacolod Central Market, Plaza Mart, and around the vicinity of La Consolacion College-Bacolod.

Based on the ordinance, those caught on their first offense will be charged P500; P1,000 on the second offense; and P2,500 or 30 days behind bars on the third.

The 17 violators were each issued a citation and requested to settle their fine within five working days or face legal charges or possible imprisonment.

BASTF was created by Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia back in July of this year./PLL, WDJ