MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has reminded shipping companies against smoking on-board passenger ships, in accordance with Executive Order No. 26 otherwise known as the nationwide smoking ban.

The Presidential directive listed as a prohibited act “smoking in enclosed public spaces and public conveyances, whether stationary or in motion.” However, smokers may use the designated smoking areas (DSA) on public places to avoid incurring penalties.

EO 26 defines the DSA as a place where smoking may be allowed, provided that it is an open space or an isolated area with proper ventilation.

The DSA in passenger ships, aside from being an isolated area with proper ventilation, shall also have a non-smoking buffer zone. The said order clarified that the combined area for a DSA and its buffer zone should not be larger than 20 percent of the total floor area of the ship.

Finally, the DSA is also barred from being located within 10 meters from entrances, exits, or any place where people pass or congregate, or in front of air intake ducts.

The public is encouraged to report any violation of this Presidential directive to the MARINA’s Enforcement Service through mobile number 0995-400-7336 or email address: [email protected].

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