Cayetano lauds SC decision upholding FDA’s tobacco regulatory power

MANILA, Philippines — President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was urged to continue to strengthen health systems as the Supreme Court (SC) upheld the Food and Drug Authority (FDA) regulatory power over cigarettes and tobacco, Sen. Pia Cayetano said.

Cayetano over the weekend said the SC ruling upholding FDA’s regulatory power over cigarettes and tobacco products was a “major victory” for public health and future generations.

“It is my hope that the incoming administration will continue to strengthen our health systems, and ensure that all harmful and potentially harmful products that should fall under the ambit of FDA’s authority are duly regulated to safeguard public health,” Cayetano said.

Cayetano, principal sponsor of Republic Act 9711 or the FDA Act of 2009, said the SC just affirmed the right of every Filipino to good health by upholding the power of the FDA to regulate cigarettes and tobacco products: “This is a major victory for our people and advocates for tobacco control and public health.”

“Thirteen years ago, I sponsored and defended what became the FDA Act of 2009. RA 9711 mandated the FDA to regulate all products affecting health, including cigarettes and tobacco. The tobacco industry rejected FDA’s authority, and went to court to prevent the FDA from regulating them,” she noted.

Cayetano added the health hazards of tobacco cannot be denied, and are backed by strong medical evidence. “It is common sense that these products be subjected to strict regulation by a competent health authority,” she said.

“After a long judicial process, the SC has ruled in our favor by affirming FDA’s jurisdiction over cigarettes and tobacco products. As principal sponsor of RA 9711 and later, as an intervenor in this case along with Sen. Franklin Drilon, I laud our SC for this landmark decision,” she added.

“This win is for the Filipino people and will benefit future generations. It may have taken 13 years, but it’s these victories that remind me to keep fighting the good fight. It’s what makes my job worthwhile,” Cayetano noted, acknowledging the guidance and support of fellow health advocates, including the late health secretary Quasi Romualdez.