Health advocates and lawmakers in the Philippines call on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to increase “sin taxes,” or excise taxes on alcohol, sweetened beverages, and tobacco products, arguing that current measures are not sufficient to curb unhealthy habits among young people. In a press briefing, members of the Youth for Health coalition urged the government to raise taxes and to direct additional funding toward health programs specifically aimed at youth.
The coalition links the proposed policy changes to ongoing public health concerns affecting children and adolescents, including rising cases of stunting and obesity. They also cite high rates of alcohol consumption and smoking among the youth, contending that stronger fiscal and preventive measures are needed to reduce exposure and consumption.
The advocates’ appeal centers on using tax policy as part of a broader strategy, combining higher excise taxes with expanded youth-focused health programming. The sources describe the call as an effort to protect young people from vices and to improve health outcomes, but they do not indicate any decision or timeline from the President or the government.
