Senator Opposes Dave Gomez Appointment Over Tobacco Ties
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Pia Cayetano has joined health and child rights advocates in opposing the appointment of Dave Gomez as the new Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary, citing his close ties to the tobacco industry. The senator emphasized that appointing someone linked to such an industry to a key government communications role sends a harmful message, especially to the youth.
Before his new role, Gomez served as communications director for Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Corp. Inc. (PMFTC), the Philippine branch of the global tobacco giant Philip Morris International. This connection has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the influence of tobacco companies on government messaging.
Concerns Over Industry Influence
“Appointing someone with longstanding ties to the tobacco industry to a top communications post sends the wrong message, especially to our youth, who remain the most vulnerable to the harmful influence of tobacco and vape products,” Cayetano said in a statement. She questioned how Gomez could objectively criticize an industry he has been closely linked with.
As a seasoned health advocate and former chair of the Senate health committee, Cayetano has witnessed firsthand how public health policies can be weakened by vested interests. She pledged to continue fighting for transparency, accountability, and policies that place people’s welfare above corporate profits.
Health Advocates Unite Against Appointment
“We’ve worked hard to build policies that protect the health of every Filipino family. These gains must not be reversed by decisions that open the door to industry interference or, worse, normalize it,” the senator added. She reminded everyone of the crucial responsibility to safeguard the next generation from harmful corporate influences.
Several organizations opposing Gomez’s appointment include the Medical Action Group, Child Rights Network, Psoriasis Philippines, Healthy Philippines Alliance (HPA), HPA – Youth Network, Social Watch Philippines, Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations, Youth for Mental Health Coalition, Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development Foundation Inc., and HealthJustice Philippines.
These groups warned that Gomez’s leadership at the PCO could compromise public service principles by allowing industry influence to shape government communication. They urged the Commission on Appointments to reject his nomination to protect the progress made in tobacco control and public health.
Government Transition and Next Steps
Gomez replaced Jay Ruiz, who has moved to a new role as a board member of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office in Taiwan. When approached for comment, Gomez declined to respond to inquiries about the controversy.
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