This chapter sets forth the integrity principles and practices governing the conduct of those who are part of DESC, as well as individuals and entities acting on its behalf, in our employment and business relationships with customers, suppliers, communities, governments, labor unions, and other third parties. Our purpose is clear: to prevent and avoid all forms of corruption, consistent with our values and in furtherance of target 16.5 (Substantially reduce Corruption and Bribery in all their forms) of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
6.1 BRIBERY
Under no circumstances do we offer, promise, authorize, pay, solicit, or accept any form of bribe, gratuity, gift, benefit, meal, favor, or any other similar illicit or unethical concealed payment. This prohibition applies in every jurisdiction in which DESC operates. No exceptions shall apply, including those based on local customs or business practices in the countries where we conduct business.
6.2 GIFTS, TRAVEL EXPENSES, AND HOSPITALITY
We do not give or accept cash, gifts, courtesies, tickets to cultural, sporting, or entertainment events, travel, hospitality, or any other type of benefit from suppliers, customers, or potential competitors.
Any exceptional circumstance, within the applicable legal framework, must be authorized by the responsible Senior Management.
Promotional items and business courtesies that are consistent with accepted business practices, are of symbolic value, and neither compromise nor appear to compromise the recipient’s judgment or objectivity in business dealings, nor create any sense or expectation of personal obligation, are excluded from this prohibition.
Promotional items and business courtesies that are consistent with accepted business practices, are of symbolic value, and neither compromise nor appear to compromise the recipient’s judgment or objectivity in business dealings, nor create any sense or expectation of personal obligation, are excluded from this prohibition.
6.3 POLITICAL DONATIONS AND/OR CONTRIBUTIONS
On behalf of DESC or any of its companies, we do not make any illegal contributions or donations to political parties, political candidates, or electoral campaigns, nor to companies, entities, or associations related to such political parties.
6.4 INFLUENCE PEDDLING
We do not promote or induce public officials or members of the DESC community to engage in unlawful acts or omissions in the performance of their duties in order to obtain, directly or indirectly, a personal benefit, an advantage for the Group, its members, or any third party, or to cause harm to any individual or public or private entity.
6.5 USE OF FALSE INFORMATION
We do not use false or altered information, nor do we simulate compliance with official regulations to obtain favorable decisions, authorizations, benefits, or advantages, or to cause harm to any person.
6.6 ColLUSION
Any association, agreement, or arrangement with companies or third parties to conduct business or undertake actions involving public entities for the purpose of obtaining unlawful or ethically improper benefits or advantages, or with the intent of causing harm to the public treasury, is strictly prohibited.
6.7
UNLAWFUL PARTICIPATION IN ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS
We do not process permits, licenses, certifications, etc. before municipal, state, or federal authorities through third parties who have been or are subject to criminal proceedings, who are legally disqualified or debarred, or who have a history of poor reputation; whenever possible, we prioritize the use of digital platforms to complete such procedures in compliance with the applicable legal framework.
