Davao City: The Vices Regulation Unit (VRU) here reported Monday its collection of over PHP9 million in fines last year. In an interview, VRU head Hernando Las said the fines were collected from violators of the city's anti-smoking, anti-sobriety, and liquor ban ordinances.

According to Philippines News Agency, in 2024, the VRU conducted 2,566 operations resulting in 3,418 apprehensions under the anti-smoking ordinance, which yielded PHP7.5 million in fines. For the liquor ban ordinance, the unit carried out 822 operations with 653 apprehensions, resulting in PHP1 million in fines. Las noted that most violators were from other cities and countries, unaware of these ordinances.

Davao City enforces strict regulations, prohibiting the sale of alcohol from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. daily, and the consumption of alcohol in commercial establishments from 1 a.m. to 2 p.m. The sale of alcohol is also banned within 50 meters of schools, health facilities, and other places frequented by minors from 1 a.m. to 6 p.m., along with the consumption of alcohol in public places, including alleys and pathways.

The anti-smoking ordinance, amended in 2012, bans smoking of any tobacco product and the use of electronic cigarettes in public transportation, government-owned vehicles, all accommodation and entertainment establishments, workplaces, enclosed and partially enclosed public places, public buildings, and outdoor spaces within Davao City's jurisdiction.

As of January 2025, the VRU has already collected more than PHP1 million in fines for ordinance violations. The unit has also collaborated with local schools to conduct anti-smoking awareness symposiums and coordinated with the City Health Office for nicotine replacement therapy. Additionally, communities and private companies have received seminars on the anti-smoking and liquor bans.