Groups oppose Marcos Jr.'s PCO pick due to tobacco ties

Civil society and health organizations have criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s decision to appoint Dave Gomez as the new secretary of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), with Senator Pia Cayetano joining their opposition.

The groups urged the Commission on Appointments (CA) to reject Gomez's appointment when the 78th Congress opens later this month, citing his long-standing ties with the tobacco industry and questioning how he can remain independent from an industry that acts harmful to public health.

They argue that placing someone who has promoted tobacco interests at the helm of government messaging undermines public trust and transparency, jeopardizing public health gains and normalizing industry influence.

The organizations highlighted that Gomez's appointment violates the World Health Organization-Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC), which the Philippines ratified.

Civil society groups warned they will closely monitor Gomez's role to ensure his past ties do not interfere with promoting the general welfare or favoring an industry responsible for widespread harm and deaths among Filipinos.

The statement was signed by various health organizations, including Medical Action Group, Child Rights Network, Psoriasis Philippines, Healthy Philippines Alliance, and others.