MANILA, Philippines– Medical professionals and advocacy groups in the Philippines are urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Senate to reject a bill passed by the House of Representatives that seeks to lower excise taxes on tobacco.
These groups warn that such a move could harm public health, especially among the youth, by increasing the risk of tobacco-related diseases.
They argue that reducing tobacco excise rates could undermine years of public health efforts aimed at decreasing smoking rates in the country.
The bill, which has already been approved by the House, has sparked significant opposition from health organizations, which have called its passage “railroaded.”
These organizations argue that lowering the excise tax contradicts the objectives of the Sin Tax Law, which was designed to reduce tobacco consumption by making tobacco products more expensive and less accessible, particularly to young people.
Currently, the excise tax on tobacco stands at PHP 66.15 per pack, with plans to increase the rate by 2% every two years.
The new bill proposes adjustments to these rates, a change that health advocates believe could undermine ongoing public health initiatives aimed at discouraging smoking.
Medical professionals and advocacy groups also raise concerns about the impact on public health infrastructure, which relies on revenue from tobacco taxes to fund vital health programs.
They argue that reducing tobacco taxes could lead to a decrease in funding for these essential services.
Opposition to the bill is not limited to public health advocates. Some lawmakers have also voiced concerns, suggesting that the proposed changes do not align with the country’s health objectives.
They stress the importance of maintaining tax structures that promote health benefits and discourage harmful behaviors.
The Sin Tax Law has previously been credited with reducing smoking rates in the Philippines. Health advocates fear that lowering the tobacco excise tax could reverse these gains, leading to a rise in smoking prevalence and associated health problems.
The bill has reignited debates over the role of taxation in public health policy. Supporters of the bill argue that reducing taxes could alleviate the financial burden on smokers and potentially help address issues related to illicit trade.
However, opponents contend that the focus should remain on the health consequences of tobacco use and the need to deter its consumption.