According to the Anti-Smoking Task Force Action Team, a total of 250 individuals and 40 businesses have been found in violation of the anti-smoking ordinance since they began operations on September 1.

Most violators were caught smoking in the Bacolod City Plaza and other parts of the downtown area, while businesses were cited for noncompliance in establishing a designated smoking area.

“Individual violators and establishments were issued citation tickets, which indicate the violation and the penalty to be paid,” said Bacolod City Councilor Caesar Distrito. “They are given five days to settle the fine.”

The task force encourages violators to settle their fines or face possible legal charges./WDJ