THE VICE Regulation Unit (VRU) collected more than P17 million in fines from anti-smoking and liquor ban violations in 2025, reflecting a significant surge in enforcement efforts across the city.
During the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps briefing at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday, Feb. 25, VRU chief Jay Francia reported that the unit recorded 3,963 violators of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance from January to December 2025.
The total collection for the year reached P17,519,400, a 44% increase from the P12,116,000 collected in 2024.
“As we can see, there is a huge increase for 2025. This does not necessarily mean the number of violators is increasing, but rather that Davao City’s law enforcement efforts are improving and intensifying,” Francia explained.
While the VRU monitors the entire city, Francia noted that the majority of apprehensions occur within the city center. He observed that while some smokers have attempted to hide in corners or alleys, lighting up on public streets remains a clear violation.
On the city’s liquor ban, Francia said that most apprehensions involve downtown bar establishments that exceed the permitted hours for alcohol consumption.
“Selling and consumption must stop strictly by 1 a.m. Our unit monitors these establishments across the city, and we issue tickets to both the violators and the business owners,” Francia said.
He warned that repeat offenders face severe consequences.
Establishments caught violating the ordinance for a second or third time are recommended for business permit suspension through the Business Bureau.
“Many establishments have already been blocked from renewing their licenses due to these violations,” Francia added.
