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Seeing through the Smoke
VERA Files carries stories, reports and commentaries on the effects of novel tobacco products. One such initiative had the support of STOP, a global tobacco industry watchdog.
Latest Stories
‘Solid North’ lawmakers press PH delegation to COP11 to reject tobacco control measures
By Booma Cruz
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Nov 21, 2025
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The alliance expressed “firm opposition” to proposals calling for an end to government support to tobacco farmers, imposing quotas on the manufacture and importation of tobacco products, and banning or phasing out of tobacco sales.
PH delegation declares ‘unwavering commitment’ vs nicotine addiction
By Booma Cruz
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Nov 19, 2025
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The Philippines is committed to "continue to pursue comprehensive measures to reduce tobacco use and protect public health" through a combination of regulation, fiscal policy and public health interventions.
‘Tobacco industry-friendly’ officials dominate PH delegation to Geneva conference, defy treaty provisions vs interference
By Booma Cruz
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Nov 19, 2025
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As a signatory to the FCTC since 2005, the Philippines has an obligation to fully implement Article 5.3 of the treaty, which “requires the protection of public health policies from the commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry.” This means ensuring that COP delegations do not include tobacco industry or tobacco industry-affiliated persons, among other things.
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By Antonio J. Montalvan II | Jan 19, 2024
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