CODE OF ETHICS
The HADSAP code of ethics is developed to assure that the members of the association will be guided on HADSAP’s philosophies and commitments. It is a responsibility that all members be guided by the principles indicated herein.
This code of ethics reflects the values and conduct of all members thus standard guidelines for corrective action shall remain applicable to all member companies of the association.
Member companies, shall not in any way, exercise unlawful, unfair, and deceptive acts of business practice, recruitment, sales representation to the public, and manufacturing and distribution practices.
1. Commitment to observe applicable Law and Regulations:
1.1 Member companies must comply properly with the standards and requirements of law in their business. Compliance with the law is a condition of acceptance by and continuing membership in the association.
1.2 As HADSAP is an affiliate of international organizations, such as HSIA (Health Supplements Industry Association), AAHSA, and IADSA, the association also respects and abides by their regulations and implemented code of ethics.
2. Commitment to Truthful Advertising:
2.1 Advertisements must be truthful and not deceptive or cater to incomplete information.
2.2 Advertisements with comparative studies to or against competitors in a direct form are not allowed.
2.3 All advertisement claims need to be backed up by scientific or clinical evidence.
2.4 Unfair and misleading advertisements are not allowed.
2.5 Advertisements must follow the standard trade practices and lawful guidelines provided by Local government bodies (such as those implemented by Philippine AdBoard, BFAD/FDA, DOH, etc.).
2.6 Advertisements must provide or educate with proper and responsible giving of information to the public/consumers.
3. Commitment to Product Safety and Quality Policies:
3.1 Products and/or services being marketed to the public.
3.2 Lawful and safety regulations on products manufactured.
3.3 Product formulation, handling, and descriptive or labeling (such as dosage statements, RDAs, and product effects).
3.4 Appropriate corrective actions on possible errors in product formulation, descriptive or labeling, or complain/customer service contact should always be on the label.
4. Commitment to Fair Business Practices:
4.1 Carefully formulated/labeled products, respectful promotional items/materials, and truthful advertising (refer to section 4 of this code)
4.2 Ensure that customer complaints are properly handled based on what is right and fair.
4.3 Ensure that members are not to directly or indirectly denigrate competitors and their products/services. HADSAP members must compete based on merit. The principles of fair competition, promotion of common interests, and a spirit of mutual respect and harmony must be the focus of being a member of the association.
4.4 In the case of “comparative statements”, make sure that your facts are properly supported with the legal and right documentation.
4.5 Respecting each other’s talent resources and shall not engage in any employee looting on a competitor in order to obtain important client/business or that would result to business paralysis or even financial loss.
4.6 Recognize the importance of seeking professional services (such as Doctors, Government Healthcare industries, etc.), despite what is being offered to the consumers.
4.7 Providing the public with extensive information that will allow them to better decide on their choice of products in the marketplace.
5. Commitment to promote the common interests by supporting all agreements and resolutions by the association. No member shall demoralize the interests of the association or the Health and Dietary Supplements industry in general.
6. Commitment to support the projects and activities of the association that will help develop and strengthen the Health and Dietary Supplements industry.
7. Commitment to always be equipped and updated on all information about health and dietary supplements, health awareness and disease prevention programs, alternative treatments, on products and services marketed, and the Company’s profile in educating the public.
8. Commitment to treat each member of the association with respect for the unity and harmony of the association. If a problem arises between two member companies, it shall seek resolution within the association. Actions that are conflict-ridden or damaging to the group in any way shall be sanctioned.
9. Commitment to unite, respect, and abide by the sanctions imposed against any party that has violated the ethical or moral rights of another member of the association.
Approved: November 2010