P30 tax hike per pack of cigarette backed
MANILA, Philippines – Proposals imposing a P30 tax increase per pack of cigarette drew support from health and civil society group as the move was seen to curb incidence of tobacco-related diseases like cancer and hypertension in the country.
Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance Philippines (FCAP) and other tobacco control groups called saw no legitimate reason that will prevent the passage of the measure.
“We see no legitimate reason why this measure will not pass through this legislation… only the moneyed interests of the tobacco industry will get in the way,” FCAO Executive Director Maricar Limpin said.
“We expect them to use their allies among legislators to raise again the threat of the bill to the livelihood of tobacco farmers,” Limpin added, urging the House Committee on Ways and Means to provide alternative farm crops livelihood programs.
Limpin issued the statement in support of the measure of Iloilo Rep. Neil Tupas Jr., who proposed to impose P14 per pack for low-priced cigarette brands and P28.30 for high-brand products from 2012 to 2014.
Tupas also expressed belief that earmarking 2.5 percent of total excise tax collection from tobacco and alcohol will help expand the finances for the universal health coverage.
Tupas added that another 2.5 percent of the excise tax on tobacco products will promote the government’s health promotion programs, curbing incidence of tobacco-related incidence in the country.
Former health secretary Galvez Tan agreed that current cigarette tax rate of 12 centavo per stick for the cheapest brand need to be increased as it barely makes a dent in cigarette prices.
“if you really want people to stop smoking, the tobacco tax system needs to be improved immediately,” Tan said.