More than 7,000 people have been apprehended in Davao City for violating the anti-smoking and liquor ban ordinances in 2024.

Data from the Vices Regulation Unit (VRU) showed that more than 6,000 people were apprehended for violating the Anti-Smoking Ordinance.

Of the 6,000, more than 5,400 were able to pay their fines.

Most of those apprehended were employees caught smoking during break time. Others came from other areas outside the city.

“Na-inform mana sila bahin sa dissemination nato ana. Pero kani laging gahi og ulo ba. Ang uban dayo mana diri sa atoa, kanang taga-laing lugar,” Vices Regulations Unit Head, Hernando Las, said.

Meanwhile, more than 1,000 people were also arrested for violating the city’s liquor ban. However, only nearly 600 paid their fines.

Drinking alcoholic beverages in the city is only up to 1 a.m.

Violators of the anti-smoking and liquor ban ordinances have to pay P3,000 as penalty.

Authorities already pressed charges against those who have not paid their fines.

Around three establishments have also been closed for various offenses.

“Kung dili sila manira within ala una, pagka 1:30 sa kadlawon, amo na ng conductan og…magsimula na among operation niana,” Las added.

Aside from VRU enforcers, police officers are also enforcing the ordinances.

The local government was able to collect nearly P10 million from violators in 2024.