Rep. Nisay pushes bill mandating front-of-package warning labels on unhealthy food

A party-list lawmaker has filed a bill seeking to require clear warning labels on the front of food packages to help Filipinos make healthier food choices. Rep. Jett Nisay of the Pusong Pinoy Party-list recently filed House Bill No. 8284, also known as the Healthy Food Marketing and Labelling Act.

The proposed measure was submitted in line with the observance of World Obesity Day, highlighting growing concerns over obesity and other diet-related illnesses in the country.

Under the bill, manufacturers will be required to place front-of-package warning labels on food and beverage products that contain high levels of sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats. The proposal also seeks to impose comprehensive marketing restrictions on unhealthy food and beverages, particularly those targeting consumers.

Rep. Nisay said the measure aims to address the rising cases of noncommunicable diseases in the Philippines by providing clearer nutrition information to consumers.

The bill was developed with the support of policy advocates, including Ralph Degollacion from Health Justice Philippines and the Healthy Philippines Alliance, which have been promoting stricter regulations on unhealthy food marketing and improved food labeling policies.

Nisay emphasized that prioritizing public health is essential for national development, saying that healthier citizens are the foundation of a stronger and more prosperous country.