SEATCA Calls for Stricter CSR Rules

Source from:  Manila Bulletin 08/29/2014

The Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) wants the government to prohibit cigarette firms from resorting to corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects to skirt the regulations against the promotion and advertising of cigarettes.

In a report, SEATCA, a regional network of anti-tobacco advocates, said tobacco companies in Southeast Asia are increasingly resorting to CSR activities to continue their promotion to buy goodwill and credibility to earn political mileage.

SEATCA explained CSR is a form of sponsorship, which amounts to promotions and hence should be prohibited.

"As Southeast Asia has become more aware of the deadly effects of tobacco and governments continue to restrict industry freedoms, tobacco companies are resorting to more below-the-line tactics to reach consumers and promote their products," the group said.

"CSR has become one of the key strategies employed by the industry to enhance its image and maintain legitimacy in both public and corporate spheres," it added.

Currently, CSR activities are not banned in the ASEAN region, and SEATCA said it leaves a loop hole for the tobacco industry to exploit when all other forms of tobacco advertising, promotions and sponsorship are prohibited.

Based on the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) guidelines, which the Philippines is a signatory, parties shall de-normalize and, regulate activities described as "socially responsible" by the tobacco industry, including but not limited to activities described as "corporate social responsibility." Enditem