Duterte Wants Health Warnings on Sugary Beverages

Two years ago, all tobacco products were mandated to carry graphic health warnings on their packaging. Now, sugary beverages are about to get the same treatment.

President Duterte has ordered authorities to make the public aware of the risks of consuming sugary beverages by putting health warning labels on them.

According to Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, the President expressed his concern about the health risks posed by consuming products that have sugar as its main ingredient. Thus, issuing such directive.

“The President was bothered if you continue to give Tang or other high-sugar products to other people without that warning. Sabi niya kailangan may warning ang mga produkto na ‘yan para guided naman ang bibili at ‘yung tatanggap [He said the products must have warnings to guide those buying and consuming them],” said Lopez during a press briefing in Malacañang.

“It becomes really a health risk. Many people hindi tumitingin sa likod, ingredients [Many people don’t look at the product’s ingredients],” he added.

While the President and the Cabinet were discussing the tax reform law and its impact on inflation, the planned placement of health warnings on sweetened beverages was raised.

During the meeting, President Duterte initially asked about the high prices of powdered juiced drinks such as Tang, said Lopez. He was then informed that under the new law, these high-sugar products were hit with taxes.

“And in fact, the ingredient says it’s mainly sugar so delikado pala yan, sabi niya. Binanggit niya meron ba tayong truth in advertising, truth in labeling. Dapat ibandera din ‘yan [In fact the ingredient says it’s main sugar so the President said, ‘That’s dangerous.’ He mentioned if there was truth in advertising, truth in labeling. It must be clearly shown],” Lopez said.

Secretary Lopez also mentioned that the President’s concern for public health was palpable during the discussion about the sugary drinks.

“He was really concerned if these are being given without warning,” he said.

However, before this directive can be implemented, Secretary Lopez said that they plan to meet with various stakeholders and hold consultations. This is to first determine the sugary products that must have appropriate health warning labels.

The issuance of appropriate health warnings on high-sugar products is expected to be handled by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may be implemented in one or two months.

via Manila Bulletin / Genalyn Kabiling