OVERVIEW
The Philippines Standards Coalition (PSC) was officially launched on October 25, 2024, as a partnership between major alcohol producers and trade groups such as the Alcoholic Beverages Alliance of the Philippines (ABAPI), e‑commerce platforms, and PASCO, representing 7,000 sari‑sari (micro-retailer) outlets. Philippines Senator Win Gatchalian has sent a welcome address via a video message. While promoting self-regulation that is proven to be ineffective (1, 2, 3..), the PSC presents itself as an initiative committed to reducing alcohol harm by promoting “responsible marketing and sales practices,” particularly to prevent underage access.
Members
- Diageo
- Pernod Ricard
- Moët Hennessy
- Brown-Forman
- Bacardi
- the Philippine Association of Sari-sari Store and Carinderia Owners (PASCO)
- Sugbo Wine
- Winery
- Singlemalt
- Booze Shop
- Flasked
strategic messaging and policy influence
The PSC positions itself as a public good, using responsible language to enhance credibility while evading accountability. Rather than endorsing proven policy levers – such as taxation, advertising restrictions, availability limits – the Coalition proposes voluntary guidelines and retailer training to shift attention to individual behaviour instead of population policies that help effectively to avoid alcohol harm.