PIDS CALLS FOR HEALTHIER OPTIONS ALONGSIDE HIGHER SUGARY DRINK TAX

The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) urged the government to pair any increase in excise taxes on (SSBs) with measures that improve Filipinos’ access to healthier alternatives.

PIDS senior research fellow Valerie Gilbert Ulep said higher taxes alone would not be enough to address health problems linked to sugary drinks.

Ulep also recommended using additional tax revenues for health care programs, particularly those addressing diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.

The call comes as Congress considers higher SSB taxes under the government’s ProGRESS tax reform package, with the Youth for Health Coalition backing higher rates and annual tax adjustments.

Ulep also called for reforms in public health financing, including stronger primary care, clearer institutional roles, and better use of health information.

Source: PhilNews24 | September 17, 2026