Limitations on Authorized FDRO Actions
- Official FDROs have no authority to solicit contributions in any form.
- FDROs cannot accept payments for government fees from regulated establishments.
Identification and Verification Requirements
- Authentic FDROs carry proper identification cards.
- They must possess an authority to inspect document signed by the BFAD Director or DOH Regional Director.
- These documents specify the area of inspection.
Rights and Responsibilities of Establishments
- Establishments must ask inspecting individuals for official identification and inspection authority documents.
- They must refuse lending money or giving any form of contribution to inspectors.
Legal Implications and Penalties
- Providing cash or in-kind benefits to inspectors is a criminal offense.
- Such acts may be classified as corruption involving public officers.
Procedure for Verifying Inspectors
- In case of doubt about an inspector's identity, establishments should contact the Bureau of Food and Drugs or the respective DOH Regional Field Office.
This circular emphasizes strict verification of inspection officers to prevent corruption and protect establishments from impostors posing as FDROs. It underscores the illegality of giving any unauthorized payment to inspectors and promotes verification protocols to maintain integrity in food and drug regulatory inspections.