Boon or Bane: An Evaluation of Republic Act 9211 (Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003)

Abstract

Republic Act 9211 (Tobacco Regulation of 2003) which imposes an absolute ban on smoking on public places and restricts the packaging, use, sale, distribution and advertisements of cigarettes and other tobacco products was signed recently by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. The law’s passage is part of her administration’s commitment to a cleaner, healthier, and safer world for all rising generations and signals the government’s commitment to address a social malaise and public health concern. This study was undertaken with the aim of understanding the intent, provisions and initial effects of Republic Act 9211 in relation to control tobacco use. It seeks to find out the problems encountered by the authorities in the implementation, support given to the tobacco farmers and position/stand of tobacco farmers and other stakeholders. In order to accomplish this study, the researcher made use of library and archival research, key informant interviews and survey method. The researcher utilized the descriptive method in analyzing the data generated by the survey and key informant Interview. Statistical tools such as frequency distribution, percentages and tables and graphs were used to help in interpretation and analysis of the data. Although it is still too early to assess the effects of Republic Act 9211 (Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003), the researcher believes that there are sufficient bases to support the thesis statement that the tobacco control has negative effects on the tobacco industry. Furthermore study is recommended by the researcher on how the government begins implementing so as to find out what aspects of this measure can be strengthened or modified to assure successful implementation.