Sen. Cayetano, health groups oppose PCO sec. appointee over tobacco ties

Senator Pia Cayetano and several health and child rights organizations oppose the appointment of Dave Gomez as Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary due to his past ties with the tobacco industry.

Cayetano stated that Gomez's history with a multinational tobacco company, specifically Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Company (PMFTC), sends a negative message, particularly to the youth, who are susceptible to the influence of tobacco and vape products.

The groups, including Child Rights Network, Health Justice, and Healthy Philippine Alliance, warned that the appointment risks turning the government's voice into a vehicle for industry influence and weakening tobacco control gains.

Gomez, however, stated that he is no longer part of the tobacco industry, having retired and being a private citizen when he joined the government.

He respects the criticisms but maintains his role is to communicate the president's programs and policies, not to engage in politics or personal matters.