#CulturePH - Cheers to Authenticity: Join the Fight Against Illicit Alcohol in the Philippines!
As we gear up for the festive season, it’s time to talk about something super important—making sure the drinks we enjoy are safe and authentic. The Alliance Against Counterfeit Spirits (AACS), with support from the Asia Pacific International Spirits and Wine Alliance (APISWA) and the Alcoholic Beverage Alliance of the Philippines (ABAPI), is launching a campaign called “Drink Authentic, Enjoy Responsibly.” Let’s dive into what this means for all of us!
Why Authenticity Matters
Did you know that an estimated 20-30% of alcohol consumed in the Philippines is unrecorded? This includes homemade brews, smuggled goods, and counterfeit products. Not only can these pose serious health risks, but they also hurt our local businesses and economy. Plus, counterfeit products are essentially scams that can cost you more than just money.
The Campaign: Drink Authentic, Enjoy Responsibly
This campaign is all about empowering you to make safe, informed choices when it comes to alcohol. David Francis, Managing Director for AACS, emphasizes, “Responsible drinking starts with knowing what you are drinking. Counterfeit alcohol can never replicate the taste and experience of genuine, authentic products.”
How to Spot the Real Deal
Here are some handy tips to help you identify authentic alcoholic beverages using the 5Ps:
Place: Always buy from reputable traders and ensure you get a valid receipt. If the seller seems shady, they might be dealing in counterfeit goods.
Price: Compare prices with those in established supermarkets. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Product: Check for any unusual debris, smell, or color. Trust your instincts—if something seems off, it probably is.
Packaging: Look for signs of tampering or previous opening. Check the fill level and ensure there are no spelling errors or misprints on the packaging.
Payment and Refund: Use recognized payment channels. Suspicious payment methods could be a red flag for counterfeit products.
A Changing Market
With a growing preference for premium, high-quality alcoholic beverages, counterfeiters are finding new opportunities. In September 2023, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confiscated 6,562 bottles of counterfeit alcohol worth up to PHP 96 million. This highlights the ongoing battle against illicit alcohol.
Join the Movement
By following the 5Ps, you can protect yourself and others from the harmful effects of illicit alcohol. Remember to:
Spot it: Learn how to identify counterfeit alcohol products.
Report it: Notify authorities when you encounter suspected illicit alcohol.
Dispose of it: Safely dispose of empty bottles to help combat the counterfeit supply chain.
Consume responsibly: Ensure that you are consuming genuine products.
Stay Informed
For more tips and updates, follow the “Drink Authentic, Enjoy Responsibly” campaign on Facebook and Instagram. Let’s make this festive season safe, enjoyable, and authentic!
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