AN ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ANTI-SMOKING ORDINANCE IN NOVALICHES QUEZON CITY

Abstract

ABSTRACT Title: Assessment of the Capabilities of Implementation of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance in Novaliches, Quezon City Authors: Bataclan, Jason T.; Berbasa, Oliver D.; Cabangbang, Arjie; Galozo, Aron Dave A.; Gorobat, Henrexon L.; Tagaytay, Rafael L. Degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminology Date of Completion: November 2024  This study aimed to assess the implementation capabilities of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance in Novaliches, Quezon City. With smoking recognized as a major public health issue, the local government enacted the ordinance to regulate smoking in public areas and promote a healthier environment. The research focused on evaluating the level of community awareness, the effectiveness of enforcement strategies, the challenges encountered by implementing agencies, and the overall compliance of the public. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study gathered data through survey questionnaires distributed to local law enforcers, barangay officials, and residents. Results indicated a moderate level of public awareness and partial compliance with the ordinance. However, enforcement efforts were hindered by limited manpower, insufficient resources, and a lack of continuous public education campaigns. The study concludes that effective implementation requires stronger inter-agency collaboration, regular training for enforcement personnel, and intensified awareness programs. These improvements are essential to enhancing public compliance and achieving the ordinance’s objectives in safeguarding community health. This study assesses the implementation capabilities of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance in Novaliches, Quezon City, focusing on the local government's readiness, policy effectiveness, and enforcement challenges. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines surveys of residents, interviews with local officials and enforcement personnel, document analysis, and direct observations in public areas. It evaluates the preparedness of authorities, the level of public awareness, and the extent of compliance among individuals and business establishments. Findings show that while public awareness is generally high, enforcement remains inconsistent across barangays, leading to uneven compliance with the ordinance. The study identified several key challenges in implementing the anti-smoking ordinance in Novaliches, Quezon City, including limited manpower, insufficient signage, and occasional resistance from the public. Although the ordinance has led to a noticeable decrease in public smoking, its effectiveness is limited by inconsistent enforcement and weak coordination among government agencies. While enforcement teams are in place, they often lack adequate resources, and penalties are not consistently applied, reducing the law’s overall deterrent effect. The study concludes that stronger inter-agency collaboration, regular training for enforcement personnel, sustained public education campaigns, and increased budget support are essential to closing implementation gaps and promoting a more effective, smoke-free environment. Research plays a crucial role in guiding informed decision-making in areas such as social behavior, infrastructure, and public health, contributing to a more sustainable, equitable, and progressive community. This study gathered data from 25 smoking residents and 20 barangay officials using a structured survey questionnaire distributed to both groups.