By Perfecto T. Raymundo, Jr.
QUEZON CITY – The Philippine Smoke-Free Movement (PSFM), an alliance composed of more than 100 members from different organizations and individuals, is strongly opposing a proposed legislative measure in the House of Representatives (House) to decrease the tax on tobacco.
In a hearing presided over by Albay Rep. Jose “Joey” Salceda on Jan. 8, 2025, the proposed House Bill to suspend the annual 5% increase in excise tax on tobacco until 2026 was filed.
According to the proposed House Bill, it is needed to address the decrease in the income of government brought about by illicit trade.
Nevertheless, there was no strong evidence showing that the high tax is the reason in the decrease in the income of the government.
The PSFM expressed the belief that it does not address the root cause of the problem of illicit trade.
“We should strengthen the implementation of the law against smuggling and illegal distribution, instead of the decrease in tobacco tax. This proposal would only show the attempt of the tobacco industry to manipulate the lawmakers in order to pursue their personal interest, which will bring about cheaper price and higher consumption of tobacco,” the PSFM said.
“The tax on tobacco is important not only as additional income of government, but as an effective step to lessen the consumption of tobacco and protect the health of the public, especially the youth. The cheaper price of tobacco may encourage more youth to consume it, which will bring higher risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and other chronic diseases,” it added.
The PSFM also called on lawmakers to prioritize the health of the public and protect the successes in the reforms of tax on tobacco.
“Instead of prioritizing the interest of the tobacco industry, it is vital to hear the experts on health, the agencies who are implementing the law, the economists, and pro-health advocacy groups,” the PSFM said.
