DOH, anti-tobacco advocates urge Eraserheads to nix cigar sponsor

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) and tobacco control advocates on Wednesday appealed to music group Eraserheads to reject a cigarette manufacturer’s sponsorship of its much awaited reunion concert on August 30 in Manila. DOH Undersecretary Alex Padilla said the popular band, which disbanded in 2002, should disassociate themselves from a cigar company who will be sponsoring their concert. "Considered one of the most influential bands in the country, the Eraserheads has become a role model of sorts for our young. I hope they will rise up to the challenge, do more than play music, and help young Filipinos reach their potential," said Dr. Maricar Limpin of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance-Philippines. Limpin asked the Eraserheads to duplicate a recent act by singer Alicia Keys. The award-winning singer and pianist recently rejected the sponsorship of cigarette giant Philip Morris for her concert in Indonesia. Louis Camilleri, chairman and chief executive officer of Philip Morris, has confirmed in a letter to Matthew Myers of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids dated July 30, 2008 that their company is behind the reunion concert. Padilla said the cigar company would be violating Republic Act No. 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 which prohibits cigar companies from sponsoring sports, cultural, and artistic events of individual or team athletes, artists and performers. - Johanna Camille Sisante, Amita Legaspi, GMANews.TV