Civil Service Commission Supports Printing Of Graphic Health Warning In Cigarette Packs

Graphic images have more impact in showing the harmful effects of smoking.

This was pointed out by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) as it expressed its support to the Department of Health (DOH) for the release of the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 10643 or the “Graphic Health Warnings” (GHW) Law.

“While we respect that smoking remains a personal choice, we urge public servants to choose the path of living a healthier lifestyle, as well as respect others by not subjecting them to second-hand smoke,” said CSC Commissioner Robert S. Martinez.

The GHW Law requires cigarette manufacturers in the country to replace the packaging of cigarette packs with images of people with mouth cancer, lung cancer, emphysema, gangrene, impotence, and other diseases to warn them of the devastating effects of tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke. It also aims to remove misleading or deceptive descriptors like “low tar”, “ultra lights” or “mild”, conveying that one variant is safer.

The CSC believes that GHW’s implementation is a boost to its promotion of a tobacco-free civil service. In 2009, the CSC issued Memorandum Circular No. 17 or the “Smoking Prohibition Based on 100% Smoke-Free Environment,” which aims to protect the health of civil servants and to ensure that government offices are smoke-free.

The CSC and DOH also issued the Joint Memorandum Circular 2010-01, or “Protection of the Bureaucracy Against Tobacco Industry Interference” which prohibits government officials and employees from doing unnecessary interaction with the tobacco industry, and if any dealing is necessary for the latter’s regulatory systems and control, it must be transparent and accountable.

Prohibited acts include providing preferential treatment such as receipt of incentives, and soliciting or accepting any donation or favor from the tobacco industry in connection with any operation or transaction of the agency. (CSC)