A cause-oriented parents’ organization has scored government officials’ acceptance and permission to the promotion of mobile clinics donated by the tobacco industry, represented by a local cigarette manufacturer.
The Parents Against Vape said the public display of such endorsement of donated mobile clinics, raised serious ethical, legal, and health-related issues.
“The actions of these government officials and the accompanying display of support could be construed as a blatant endorsement of an industry that is known for its detrimental health effects,” the group said.
The concerned parents asserted that the endorsements were deeply troubling for possible violations of Republic Act 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Law of 2003 which regulate tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship to protect public health.
By endorsing donations from the Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Corp. (PMFTC), the government officials’ actions appeared to contradict the law’s intent to reduce tobacco’s influence and prevent it from promoting its products, the PAV said.
The group also cited Executive Order No. 26 establishsing smoke-free e3nvironments in public places, and EO 46 embodying the rules on the Ethical Conduct of Public Officials and Employees, thereby prohibiting public officials from accepting gifts or donations that could influence their impartiality.
The PAV likewise invoked RA 6713 or Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
The PAV called on public officials to reassess their positions and publicly renounce any endorsement of the tobacco industry to restore public trust and uphold the principles of health and integrity that our community and laws demand.”
It also urged authorities to re- evaluate the acceptability of tobacco industry donations and review and clarify the policies regarding donations from industries with known adverse health impacts.
“Reaffirm and strengthen the commitment of government officials to public health laws and ethical conduct by implementing stricter guidelines on interactions with industries that have a detrimental effect on public health.” the PAV said.
“Promote transparency in the acceptance and endorsement of donations, ensuring that public officials are held accountable for actions that may compromise public trust and health,” the group added.
