The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is urging the government to impose higher taxes on vape products than traditional cigarettes, citing their increased use among youth and longer consumption period.
At a Senate Ways and Means Committee hearing, BIR Assistant Commissioner Jethro Sabariaga argued that vaping, which often exceeds 600 puffs per product, results in lost tax revenue compared to a cigarette pack’s average of 300 puffs.
He said making vape products more expensive could deter youth usage, which has surged to 40% in 2023 from just 7.5% in 2021.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian supported stronger enforcement of tax cuts to address rising illicit trade and youth access.
Meanwhile, cigarette giant PMFTC proposed a staggered tax hike model to help increase government revenues by as much as ₱120 billion annually.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 20, 2025
