Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, led a public hearing on Monday, May 19, to deliberate on House Bill No. 11360, which seeks to recalibrate the tax structure for tobacco and vapor products.
The session gathered key stakeholders and experts, including Dr. Anthony Leachon, an independent health reform advocate; Dr. Antonio Dans, academician at the National Academy of Science and Technology; and Dr. Imelda Mateo, president of the Philippine College of Physicians. Also in attendance were representatives from non-government organizations and importers of vapor products, offering diverse perspectives on the proposed legislation.
The measure aims to address health concerns and improve revenue generation by adjusting tax rates for traditional and electronic tobacco products.
Philippine News Agency | Avito Dalan
