The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said it will start apprehending smokers in public places in July following the agency’s renewed drive against smoking in May 30.

MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino revealed that a total of 6,154 smokers were given warning as they go out and educate the public about the associated health risk they are taking every time they smoke.

Violators will be fined P500 on their first offense, while those who cannot afford to pay the fine will be obliged to render an eight-hour community service.

“Nagsasagawa muna tayo ng information campaign for one month. After one month ang tunay na implementation kasama na ang pag-aresto sa mga lumabag. Sa ngayon warning pa lang,” Tolentino said.

Public places where smoking is banned include public utility vehicles, transport terminals, tricycles, schools, hospitals, bars and restaurants.

Tolentino also stressed that smoking will not be tolerated in the streets and in areas where food is being prepared.

At the same time, the MMDA chief also appealed for the support of local governments and the public in explaining and enforcing the ban on smoking in public places. The MMDA currently has only 64 environmental officers to enforce the campaign.