Parents reject push to lower tobacco taxes

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THE Parents Against Vape (PAV) yesterday added its voice to those opposing moves to suspend the annual tax rate hike on cigarettes and other tobacco products.

In a statement, the PAV said it is against the passage of House Bill (HB) 11279, saying it will only lead to making tobacco products more accessible, especially to the youth.

“We are alarmed over the persistent efforts to lower tax rates on tobacco and vape products after the filing of House Bill 11279,” said PAV.

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“If the bill would be passed, tobacco and vape products will become more affordable,” it added.

In effect, the anti-smoking group said it would result in significant health problems for young people, such as tobacco-related cancer, heart disease, and respiratory ailments.

“The health of Filipino youth should not be sacrificed by supporting HB 11279,” said PAV.

Instead of lowering taxes, the group said the government should consider making tobacco products more expensive.

“Tobacco products can be made less affordable through taxation. Increasing tobacco taxes can make these products more expensive, resulting in reduced consumption,” said PAV.

HB 11279 seeks to temporarily suspend the annual tax rate hike on cigarettes and other tobacco products until 2026.

Proponents of the bill see the measure as a tool to stop the worsening illicit cigarette trade problem.

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