'PNoy can be impeached for smoking'

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III is violating an international convention by his persistent smoking, which may be used for impeachment, a Civil Service Commission (CSC) official said.

CSC assistant Commissioner Ariel Ronquillo said on Monday that Aquino is violating provisions of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which prohibits smoking in government premises.

The Philippines, moreover, is a signatory to the World Health Organization treaty and even the head of state must comply with it.

"The President is not exempted. But under our rule, the only way to discipline the President is by filing an impeachment complaint against him," Ronquillo said in a forum held by anti-smoking advocates as reported on radio.

He explained that Aquino has been smoking in Malacañang and in his residence within the compound. Aquino has also refused to heed calls for him to kick the bad habit.

Ronquillo, however, admits that the offense must be related with a Constitutional provision such as on betrayal of public trust, to back an impeachment charge.

The official also said that while Aquino's allies control Congress, an impeachment is impossible.

"In the history of this country, we have not seen a president who was impeached because of smoking or allowing tobacco industry interference," Ronquillo said.

Aquino had said that Filipinos who voted for him are aware that he is a smoker but still chose to make him president.

He added that he will continue smoking as long as he does not violate laws in doing so.