FDCP x Meisner Crash Course for Actors goes to Bacolod

Actors in Bacolod City recently took part in an intensive crash course on the Meisner Acting Technique.

The Film Development Council of the Philippines organized the five-day training, through its FDCP Film School and Cinematheque Centre Negros, in collaboration with Meisner Studio Manila, The Negros Museum, and the Negros Cultural Foundation, Inc.

Headteacher Angeli Bayani facilitated the workshop with support from apprentice teachers Elora Españo and Ross Pesigan.

The program offered local talents a unique opportunity to explore the principles of modern acting through a series of dynamic lectures, hands-on exercises, and collaborative activities.

The initial two days focused on a brief history of modern acting and foundational repetition exercises.

Throughout the week, participants engaged in repetition exercises to build emotional awareness, improvisation drills to enhance spontaneity and authenticity, and scene work and pair acting to apply the techniques learned.

The workshop concluded with a final recital where participants showcased prepared scenes, followed by an awarding ceremony.

Participants shared positive feedback on their experience. Bacolodnon actor-director Kent Jerriane Caduhada said he learned three key things: understanding an actor’s objective, reacting authentically, and portraying a role with "realness".

Art educator and cultural worker Geli Tupas Arceño noted that the technique requires “so much rawness and honesty in acting.” Arceño emphasized the importance of being fully present to observe and react to a scene partner, stating, “To be able to be the most interesting person in the room, you have to be the most interested in your scene partner.”

Españo explained the core principle of the Meisner Technique, “The truth of who you are is the root of your acting.” She added that this approach leads to a more collaborative and empathetic creative process.

Nathan Jalbuena Sotto, an actor and acting coach from Iloilo, praised the sense of safety the technique provides. He contrasted it with a previous experience utilizing another method where he felt “damaged” after staying in character for weeks.

Bayani reinforced this, stressing that when actors feel safe, they feel free to explore and create.

Actors from the USLS Maskara Theatre Ensemble – Danielle Faye Magno, April Joy Baquilar Singson, and Richard Bermejo Tolosa, Jr. – expressed their gratitude for the course, noting how it deepened their connection to both their craft and each other.

Bacolod Film Festival 2024 actors, including Jing Torrecampo (“A Flower a Day” and “Laragway sa Karon”), Crystal Puying (“Glub”), and Tex Romero (“Manokan Country”), also took part in the workshop.

The event, which marked the first regional stop for the Meisner Crash Course, brought the type of professional training centered on this particular acting technique for the first time to the Visayas.

DTI Commits PH to 'Digital-First Future' at Tech Summit

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) affirmed the Philippines' commitment to a digital-first future detailing key strategic initiatives to strengthen the nation’s role in the evolving global digital landscape.

 

Addressing a gathering of industry leaders and innovators at the Manila Tech Summit 2025, on Wednesday, August 27 Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque said that DTI is at the forefront of boosting the competitiveness of Philippine industries, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to embrace digital transformation as a vital tool for nation-building.

 

"We at DTI are striving to make this happen by ensuring that every Filipino, from the small sari-sari store owner to the next tech startup founder, can thrive in a digital economy," Secretary Roque said in her keynote message.

 

Roque outlined several initiatives aimed at empowering businesses and attracting strategic investments, including the continued implementation of the 5-Point MSME Strategy, which helps small businesses go digital, diversify their products, and gain access to financing.

 

The trade chief also emphasized that through reforms like the CREATE MORE Act and Green Lanes for Strategic Investments, the DTI is opening doors for projects in high-growth sectors to empower local communities and create jobs.

To build a secure and trustworthy online environment, the Secretary also highlighted the launch of the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark, a voluntary certification for online businesses that meet government standards for transparency and security. 

Roque stressed that technology is a key driver for an inclusive economy, with a direct impact on the nation as a whole.

“Inclusivity should not be an afterthought—it is the heart of what we do. We recognize that technology can be our game-changer. That is why we see every fintech innovation, every e-commerce breakthrough, as a chance to uplift more Filipinos—especially women, youth, and small entrepreneurs,” she affirmed.

The Manila Tech Summit 2025, organized by Fintech Alliance PH, brought together top industry leaders, innovators, and cross-sector organizations to explore actionable solutions and forward-thinking strategies to thrive in a complex and rapidly changing digital environment. 

𝐊𝐖𝐅, 𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝐈𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐬𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐧𝐚 𝐊𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐲𝐚 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝐊𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚, 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐬𝐚 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲

Dumalo at nagbigay ng mensahe si KWF Tagapangulong Marites A. Barrios-Taran sa unang araw ng Ikalawang Internasyonal na Kumperensiya para sa Kultura, Sining, at Isports mulang 27–29 Agosto 2025, Summit Galleria Cebu Hotel, Robinsons Galleria.

Mariing sinabi ng Tagapangulo na “Ang wikang sinasalita natin ay higit pa sa midyum ng komunikasyon; ito ay buhay na imbakan ng ating mga kasaysayan, karunungan, awit, at pang-araw-araw na gawain, gayundin sa mga palaro na bahagi ng ating kultura.”

Magkatuwang na pinangangasiwaan ng Samahan ng mga Guro at Iba pang Propesyonal sa WIKA (SAGIP-WIKA), Departmento ng Filipino ng Cebu Normal University, Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWK-7), at Kabataang Pilipino sa Larangang Akademiko (KAPILAK) ang naturang kumperensiya.

Kasama sa mga larawan sina Dr. Radji Macatabon, University of Southern Mindanao-SWK Direktor at Pangulo ng SAGIP-WIKA, Dr. Trina Marie A. Catipay, Cebu Normal University-SWK Direktor, Dr. Lita A. Bacalla, Cebu Normal University-dating SWK Direktor at Pangalawang Pangulo para sa Komunikasyon, Ugnayang Pampubliko, at Media ng SAGIP-WIKA, mga guro ng Adiong Memorial State College, Dr. Jennifer A. Gorumba, Pangalawang Pangulo para sa Internasyonal na Ugnayan ng SAGIP-WIKA at Dekana ng College of Graduate Studies ng Palompon Institute of Technology.

The Dome Hotel Beach Club – Puerto Princesa's only Beachclub in the city where Nature meets Luxury

Puerto Princesa, Palawan – For the modern traveler who seeks unique stays and unforgettable experiences, The Dome Hotel Beach Club is redefining luxury in Puerto Princesa. As the city’s only beach club and the only city hotel that offers an exclusive island resort feel, 

it’s a destination where style, nature, and comfort meet.
With only 10 dome villas, guests are guaranteed an atmosphere of privacy and exclusivity. Each villa is inspired by the traditional bahay kubo, reimagined with modern, luxurious amenities to deliver the perfect blend of local heritage and contemporary indulgence.

The Dome Hotel Beach Club – Puerto Princesa is the second branch of The Dome Hotel resort chain, where every location is a beachfront property, chosen to highlight the beauty of the Philippines’ islands. The first branch opened in Caylabne Bay Resort and Marina, Ternate, Cavite, offering a coastal escape just a short drive from Metro Manila. 

The brand is expanding rapidly, with the third branch in El Nido set to open by the end of 2025, followed by Boracay and Coron in the coming years.
“Our vision for The Dome Hotels is to showcase the most beautiful islands and coastlines of the Philippines while offering travelers unique and luxurious stays they won’t find anywhere else,” said Dino R. Chua, President of The Dome Hotels. “Every property is a beachfront escape, designed to give guests both the beauty of nature and the comforts of modern luxury.”

At a published rate of ₱10,000 for two persons, every stay includes:
Overnight accommodation in a luxurious Dome Villa
Dinner, breakfast, and lunch
Free roundtrip airport transfers
Complimentary welcome drinks and sunset mocktails
Free use of kayak to the nearby sandbar
Free drop-off to the town proper
Special seaside dinner setup for a romantic and memorable evening

Book now and enjoy up to 20% off for bookings made until September 30, 2025.
From sipping cocktails at sunset to paddling over crystal-clear waters, The Dome Hotel Beach Club delivers the convenience of a city stay with the charm and serenity of a secluded island retreat.

For reservations, call +63954.455.7646 or visit us at www.thedomehotels.com
#thephilippineseventnewstv     #thephilippinepostnewstoday  #domehotelpuertoprincesa #todayph

'HEALTH OFFICIALS MUST LEAD NEXT DELEGATION TO TOBACCO CONTROL SUMMIT' - CAYETANO

Metro Manila, Philippines – “The Department of Health (DOH) must be designated as the official and permanent head of the Philippine delegation to the Conference of the Parties 11 (COP11) of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).”

This was Senator Pia Cayetano’s recommendation in her Chairperson’s Report as Chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee of June 30, 2025. Senator Cayetano’s report came out following the Committee’s inquiry into the conduct of the Philippine delegation to the WHO FCTC COP10 in February 2024. 

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the governing body of the WHO FCTC, tasked to oversee the implementation of the tobacco control treaty. The COP, comprised of State-parties to the treaty, meets every two years.

The report found that the Philippines’ 34-person delegation in 2024 delayed the proceedings, echoed tobacco industry arguments, and pushed for policies that weakened public health measures. This ultimately led to the delegation receiving the country’s fifth “Dirty Ashtray” award – given to countries that derail the objectives of the COP by prioritizing tobacco industry interests over public health objectives.

The 2024 delegation was led by the Office of the President’s then Senior Deputy  Executive Secretary.

The Chairperson’s Report further found that agencies such as the Department of Education and Department of Foreign Affairs have already recommended that the DOH be installed as permanent head of delegation. 

The DOH has also consistently communicated its willingness and competence to lead the Philippine delegation.

The report reads: “The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee agreed with the sensible recommendation to make DOH the permanent head of delegation to WHO FCTC conferences, whether COP or MOP [Meeting of the Parties]. To belabor the point, it is only appropriate for the DOH to lead the Philippines’ team to the world's only existing public health treaty.”

The next COP will take place in Geneva, Switzerland from November 17 to 22, 2025.

Public interest law group ImagineLaw welcomed the findings and the report’s recommendations.

“It is a shame that the Philippines has received dirty ashtray awards in the last two COPs. This should serve as a wake-up call to the President,” said Atty. Sophia San Luis, Executive Director of ImagineLaw. It is only right for DOH to lead the Philippine delegation in future WHO FCTC conferences, because protecting public health should never take a backseat to tobacco industry interests.” 

“It would be a shame if the Philippines were to receive another dirty ashtray award in the same year Sec. Ted Herbosa served as President of the World Health Assembly,” San Luis added.

The Philippines is mandated, under Article 5.3 of the WHO FCTC, to prioritize public health objectives for tobacco control and prevent the tobacco industry from influencing public health policies. This policy is implemented, among others, through a joint memorandum circular issued in 2010 by the DOH and the Civil Service Commission.

FDCP Honors the Filipina Filmmaker at Philippine Film Industry Month 2025

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – This September, the spotlight shines on the women who shaped, led and transformed our cinema as the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) celebrates Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) 2025 with a vibrant lineup of programs and events for all kinds of Filipino cineastes.

PFIM 2025 highlights the female icons of Philippine cinema’s past and present, while also bringing back crowd-favorite initiatives such as Sine Kabataan, Pelikula ng Bayan, and introducing a brand new way to enjoy the best of Filipino cinema anytime, anywhere in the country.

---

PELIKULA AT PILIPINA

While the film industry has long been male-dominated, built on the contribution of women who rose to the top and left an enduring mark on cinematic history, PFIM 2025: Pelikula at Pilipina honors the women who changed Philippine cinema in their time and opened doors for those empowered to walk the same path:

• Lee Briones-Meily
• Raquel Villavicencio
• Gina Alajar
• Olivia Lamasan
• Malou Santos

Festivities open with a film featuring two of the brightest stars of the screen as they reclaim their power as women in the face of adversity: the Star For All Seasons Vilma Santos and National Artist for Film Nora Aunor. The digitally restored Ikaw Ay Akin, directed by fellow National Artist Ishmael Bernal, ushers in the PFIM celebration on September 1, 2025, at Red Carpet Cinemas, Shangri-La.

The festivities continue with tribute screenings highlighting the works of our honorees at SM North EDSA and our FDCP Cinematheque Centers in the regions:

• Tanging Yaman (2000), cinematography by Lee Briones-Meily
• Hihintayin Kita sa Langit (1991), screenplay by Raquel Villavicencio
• Moral (1982), starring Gina Alajar
• Madrasta (1996), directed by Olivia Lamasan
• Anak (2000), produced by Malou Santos

---

SINE KABATAAN 8

The country’s premiere youth cinema festival returns as ten emerging filmmakers from across the Philippines present their short films at the 8th Sine Kabataan Short Film Festival and Laboratory from September 5-7, 2025, at Red Carpet Cinemas, Shangri La Plaza.

Furthering its mission to empower the next generation of Filipino filmmakers, SineKab expands to the regions with a new set of masterclasses in collaboration with Netflix. This pioneering edition will kick off in Alaminos, Pangasinan and Iloilo on September 9 and 11 respectively.

FILMS FOR PEACE

The inaugural Films for Peace film competition is set to premiere on September 13 and 14, 2025 at SM North EDSA. These films aim to leave a lasting impact, sharing their message with compassion and clarity for those affected by differing faces of conflict and discrimination.

PFIM GALA NIGHT

A night of glitz, glamour, and recognition, the PFIM Gala Night takes place on September 11, 2025 at Seda Vertis North. This year’s gala proudly honors the remarkable women of Philippine cinema and celebrates the awardees of the Films for Peace competition. Hosted by Yanah Laurel, the night will feature a slew of dazzling performers!

• Bituin Escalante
• Kuh Ledesma
• Lara Maigue
• Zephanie
• Angela Ken
• 92AD

FILM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

The annual Film Industry Conference returns as a one-day event led by industry experts and veterans tackling present challenges and trends in Philippine cinema. The hybrid (onsite and online) conference happens on September 26, 2025, at the Lanson Place, Mall of Asia.

This year’s FIC also marks the unveiling of the first Film Industry Roadmap, a research-based, long term strategic plan for the sustainable  development of the Philippine film industry. 

---

PELIKULA NG BAYAN, PELIKULA NG PILIPINA

Audiences nationwide can enjoy female-led and woman-centric classics through special screenings in cinemas across the country!

Film Fridays:

Brutal (1980) and Karnal (1983), directed by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya
- September 5, 2025 at Centro De Turismo, Intramuros

Anak Dalita (1956), directed by National Artist Lamberto Avellana
- September 12, 2025 at Teatro, Fort Santiago
 

Mga Hiyas ng Sineng Filipino: The restored Sisa (1951), Directed by Gerardo De Leon
- September 21, 2025 at the Metropolitan Theater
 

JuanFlix Presents: Lights Camera Attraction! Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus (2018) directed by Dwein Baltazar
- September 20, 2025 at SM North EDSA

Making its return is the crowd favorite Pelikula ng Bayan with abot-kayang Sine50 screenings at SM Mall of Asia, TriNoma, Robinsons Galleria Ortigas, and Gateway! 

• Big Night! (2021), directed by Jun Robles Lana
• Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus (2018), directed by Dwein Baltazar
• Miss Bulalacao (2015), directed by Ara Chawdhury
• Dagitab (2014), directed by Giancarlo Abrahan
• Patay na si Hesus (2016), directed by Victor Villanueva
• Apocalypse Child (2015), directed by Mario Cornejo

As a special treat, the Pelikula ng Bayan caravan heads to Baluarte de San Diego on September 10, 2025, for a screening of Love You to The Stars and Back (2017), directed by Antoinette Jadaone.

---

FDCP x DGPI FILM PITCH RETURNS!

In collaboration with the Director’s Guild of the Philippines, the film pitching workshop and showcase returns for aspiring filmmakers to pitch their dream projects to producers via speed dating and public pitching. The pitching showcase is set to happen on September 25, 2025 at the Lanson Place, Mall of Asia.

FDCP-PFA x MFI x SOFIA: FILM ARCHIVING SEMINAR

The FDCP, MOWELFUND Film Institute, and the Society of Filipino Archivists of Film, join forces to train the present and next generation of film preservationists! Passing

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FDCP HONORS THE FILIPINA FILMMAKER AT PHILIPPINE FILM INDUSTRY MONTH 2025

August 15, 2025

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – This September, the spotlight shines on the women who shaped, led and transformed our cinema as the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) celebrates Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) 2025 with a vibrant lineup of programs and events for all kinds of Filipino cineastes.

PFIM 2025 highlights the female icons of Philippine cinema’s past and present, while also bringing back crowd-favorite initiatives such as Sine Kabataan, Pelikula ng Bayan, and introducing a brand new way to enjoy the best of Filipino cinema anytime, anywhere in the country.

---

PELIKULA AT PILIPINA

While the film industry has long been male-dominated, built on the contribution of women who rose to the top and left an enduring mark on cinematic history, PFIM 2025: Pelikula at Pilipina honors the women who changed Philippine cinema in their time and opened doors for those empowered to walk the same path:

• Lee Briones-Meily
• Raquel Villavicencio
• Gina Alajar
• Olivia Lamasan
• Malou Santos

Festivities open with a film featuring two of the brightest stars of the screen as they reclaim their power as women in the face of adversity: the Star For All Seasons Vilma Santos and National Artist for Film Nora Aunor. The digitally restored Ikaw Ay Akin, directed by fellow National Artist Ishmael Bernal, ushers in the PFIM celebration on September 1, 2025, at Red Carpet Cinemas, Shangri-La.

The festivities continue with tribute screenings highlighting the works of our honorees at SM North EDSA and our FDCP Cinematheque Centers in the regions:

• Tanging Yaman (2000), cinematography by Lee Briones-Meily
• Hihintayin Kita sa Langit (1991), screenplay by Raquel Villavicencio
• Moral (1982), starring Gina Alajar
• Madrasta (1996), directed by Olivia Lamasan
• Anak (2000), produced by Malou Santos

---

SINE KABATAAN 8

The country’s premiere youth cinema festival returns as ten emerging filmmakers from across the Philippines present their short films at the 8th Sine Kabataan Short Film Festival and Laboratory from September 5-7, 2025, at Red Carpet Cinemas, Shangri La Plaza.

Furthering its mission to empower the next generation of Filipino filmmakers, SineKab expands to the regions with a new set of masterclasses in collaboration with Netflix. This pioneering edition will kick off in Alaminos, Pangasinan and Iloilo on September 9 and 11 respectively.

FILMS FOR PEACE

The inaugural Films for Peace film competition is set to premiere on September 13 and 14, 2025 at SM North EDSA. These films aim to leave a lasting impact, sharing their message with compassion and clarity for those affected by differing faces of conflict and discrimination.

PFIM GALA NIGHT

A night of glitz, glamour, and recognition, the PFIM Gala Night takes place on September 11, 2025 at Seda Vertis North. This year’s gala proudly honors the remarkable women of Philippine cinema and celebrates the awardees of the Films for Peace competition. Hosted by Yanah Laurel, the night will feature a slew of dazzling performers!

• Bituin Escalante
• Kuh Ledesma
• Lara Maigue
• Zephanie
• Angela Ken
• 92AD

FILM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

The annual Film Industry Conference returns as a one-day event led by industry experts and veterans tackling present challenges and trends in Philippine cinema. The hybrid (onsite and online) conference happens on September 26, 2025, at the Lanson Place, Mall of Asia.

This year’s FIC also marks the unveiling of the first Film Industry Roadmap, a research-based, long term strategic plan for the sustainable  development of the Philippine film industry. 

---

PELIKULA NG BAYAN, PELIKULA NG PILIPINA

Audiences nationwide can enjoy female-led and woman-centric classics through special screenings in cinemas across the country!

Film Fridays:

Brutal (1980) and Karnal (1983), directed by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya
- September 5, 2025 at Centro De Turismo, Intramuros

Anak Dalita (1956), directed by National Artist Lamberto Avellana
- September 12, 2025 at Teatro, Fort Santiago
 

Mga Hiyas ng Sineng Filipino: The restored Sisa (1951), Directed by Gerardo De Leon
- September 21, 2025 at the Metropolitan Theater
 

JuanFlix Presents: Lights Camera Attraction! Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus (2018) directed by Dwein Baltazar
- September 20, 2025 at SM North EDSA

Making its return is the crowd favorite Pelikula ng Bayan with abot-kayang Sine50 screenings at SM Mall of Asia, TriNoma, Robinsons Galleria Ortigas, and Gateway! 

• Big Night! (2021), directed by Jun Robles Lana
• Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus (2018), directed by Dwein Baltazar
• Miss Bulalacao (2015), directed by Ara Chawdhury
• Dagitab (2014), directed by Giancarlo Abrahan
• Patay na si Hesus (2016), directed by Victor Villanueva
• Apocalypse Child (2015), directed by Mario Cornejo

As a special treat, the Pelikula ng Bayan caravan heads to Baluarte de San Diego on September 10, 2025, for a screening of Love You to The Stars and Back (2017), directed by Antoinette Jadaone.

---

FDCP x DGPI FILM PITCH RETURNS!

In collaboration with the Director’s Guild of the Philippines, the film pitching workshop and showcase returns for aspiring filmmakers to pitch their dream projects to producers via speed dating and public pitching. The pitching showcase is set to happen on September 25, 2025 at the Lanson Place, Mall of Asia.

FDCP-PFA x MFI x SOFIA: FILM ARCHIVING SEMINAR

The FDCP, MOWELFUND Film Institute, and the Society of Filipino Archivists of Film, join forces to train the present and next generation of film preservationists! Passing down best practices from the old guard to foster a commitment to preserving our filmic history, the program is set to run from September 24 to 26, 2025.

THE PHILIPPINES IN BUSAN & TORONTO

The Philippines is making bold strides on the global stage. This September, the FDCP heads to the Toronto International Film Festival and the Asian Contents Film Market at the Busan International Film Festival, not just to be seen but to make an impact. By showcasing the best of our local industry and fostering international partnerships, Philippine cinema continues to rise as a strong and influential voice on the world stage.

PFIM CLOSING CEREMONY

We're ending the month on a high note!  The PFIM Closing Ceremony is open to the public, a celebration for one and all, packed with fun, surprises, and a star-studded lineup featuring:  

• Mr. Fu
• River Joseph
• Esnyr
• Will Ashley
• Michael Sager

Leading up to the grand launch, JuanFlix: The FDCP channel will also be part of key PFIM events, including Sine Kabataan, Films for Peace and more! And the big highlight at the closing ceremony — Juanflix will officially unveil its brand new mobile app! With a fresh interface and improved accessibility, this affordable streaming platform brings Filipino films even closer to every Juan, anytime, anywhere! Join the celebration on September 27, 2025 at Robinsons Manila and be part of the PFIM finale!.

For details on any of the initiatives and more, follow the FDCP on Facebook, X, and Instagram

HEALTH OFFICIALS MUST LEAD NEXT DELEGATION TO TOBACCO CONTROL SUMMIT' - CAYETANO

Metro Manila, Philippines – “The Department of Health (DOH) must be designated as the official and permanent head of the Philippine delegation to the Conference of the Parties 11 (COP11) of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).”

This was Senator Pia Cayetano’s recommendation in her Chairperson’s Report as Chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee of June 30, 2025. Senator Cayetano’s report came out following the Committee’s inquiry into the conduct of the Philippine delegation to the WHO FCTC COP10 in February 2024. 

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the governing body of the WHO FCTC, tasked to oversee the implementation of the tobacco control treaty. The COP, comprised of State-parties to the treaty, meets every two years.

The report found that the Philippines’ 34-person delegation in 2024 delayed the proceedings, echoed tobacco industry arguments, and pushed for policies that weakened public health measures. This ultimately led to the delegation receiving the country’s fifth “Dirty Ashtray” award – given to countries that derail the objectives of the COP by prioritizing tobacco industry interests over public health objectives.

The 2024 delegation was led by the Office of the President’s then Senior Deputy  Executive Secretary.

The Chairperson’s Report further found that agencies such as the Department of Education and Department of Foreign Affairs have already recommended that the DOH be installed as permanent head of delegation. 

The DOH has also consistently communicated its willingness and competence to lead the Philippine delegation.

The report reads: “The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee agreed with the sensible recommendation to make DOH the permanent head of delegation to WHO FCTC conferences, whether COP or MOP [Meeting of the Parties]. To belabor the point, it is only appropriate for the DOH to lead the Philippines’ team to the world's only existing public health treaty.”

The next COP will take place in Geneva, Switzerland from November 17 to 22, 2025.

Public interest law group ImagineLaw welcomed the findings and the report’s recommendations.

“It is a shame that the Philippines has received dirty ashtray awards in the last two COPs. This should serve as a wake-up call to the President,” said Atty. Sophia San Luis, Executive Director of ImagineLaw. It is only right for DOH to lead the Philippine delegation in future WHO FCTC conferences, because protecting public health should never take a backseat to tobacco industry interests.” 

“It would be a shame if the Philippines were to receive another dirty ashtray award in the same year Sec. Ted Herbosa served as President of the World Health Assembly,” San Luis added.

The Philippines is mandated, under Article 5.3 of the WHO FCTC, to prioritize public health objectives for tobacco control and prevent the tobacco industry from influencing public health policies. This policy is implemented, among others, through a joint memorandum circular issued in 2010 by the DOH and the Civil Service Commission.