Question & AnswerQ&A (LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2009-036)
The main purpose is to adopt and impose a 100% smoke-free policy on all public utility vehicles (PUVs) and public land transportation terminals to promote a healthful environment and protect the public from second-hand smoke.
It is promulgated pursuant to R.A. No. 9211, the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003, and the Philippines' obligations under Article 8 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Smoking or carrying a lighted cigarette or any tobacco product is prohibited in all public utility vehicles and public transportation terminals.
All persons who operate, administer, manage, own, or possess public land transportation terminals are mandated to post no-smoking signs at each entrance and inside the waiting areas of the terminal.
Jeepneys must display a sign of at least 3.5 sq. in at the back of the windshield and another of at least 10 sq. in at the back of the front row seats. Taxis must display one 3.5 sq. in sign on the glove compartment at the front right side of the windshield and another 10 sq. in sign at the back of the driver's seat.
The no-smoking sign must prominently display a pictorial symbol of a burning cigarette enclosed in a red circle with a red bar without a border or frame. This symbol should occupy at least 90% of the signage or at least 70% with the rest displaying statements like 'STRICTLY NO SMOKING' or 'Bawal Manigarilyo'.
No, smoking areas cannot be designated indoors or near entrances, exits, or places where people congregate in public utility vehicles or terminals.
The operator and driver are responsible for posting no-smoking signs, with the driver tasked to warn and ask violators to stop smoking or leave the vehicle.
First offense: P500 fine for failure to post signs and P500 fine for other violations. Second offense: P5,000 fine and suspension of the Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC). Third offense: P10,000 fine and cancellation of the CPC.
The memorandum circular repeals and supersedes any and all prior issuances inconsistent with it.
It took effect fifteen (15) days following its publication in a newspaper of general circulation or the official gazette.