1. For the information and guidance of all concerned, the Department of Education (DepEd) issues the enclosed Policy and Guidelines on Comprehensive Tobacco Control for the effective implementation of a cohesive and comprehensive tobacco control program to promote a healthy environment in and around schools and DepEd offices.

2. This Policy aims to:

a. educate and inform all learners, teaching and non-teaching personnel and staff on the hazards of tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke, adverse socio-economic and environmental consequences of tobacco production and consumption, and tobacco control policies and tactics of the tobacco industry;

b. make effective cessation intervention services available and accessible to all learners, teachers, and non-teaching personnel in need of such services;

c. facilitate enforcement of tobacco control policies in schools and offices such as absolute smoking bans, access restrictions, ban on sponsorships, including so-called Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of the tobacco industry, outdoor advertising ban, the ban on promotional items for minors, and sampling restrictions, as well as protection against tobacco industry interference; and

d. ensure strict implementation of policies on the protection against tobacco industry interference in the Department.

3. All Orders, Memoranda, and other issuances inconsistent with this policy are deemed repealed, rescinded, or amended accordingly upon its effectivity.

4. This DepEd Order shall take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.

5. Immediate dissemination of and strict compliance with this Order is directed.