Zero soft drinks in government offices pushed

The World Health Organization has recommended that countries use tax policy to increase the price of sugary drinks like sodas, sport drinks, and even 100-percent fruit juices to fight obesity, diabetes and tooth decay. —AP

MANILA, Philippines —A lawmaker has proposed prohibiting government agencies from buying soft drinks and other sweet beverages and serving them in official functions.

House Assistant Majority Leader Richard Gomez said House Bill No. 10708 or the “Bawal Soft Drinks at Sweet Drinks sa Gobyerno (Soft Drinks and Sweet Drinks Ban in Government) Act,” was a “necessary step toward creating a healthier environment in government workplaces and institutions.”

READ: Tax on junk food, higher soft drink levy pushed

It bans government offices, agencies or institutions, local government units, state universities and colleges, and public hospitals, from procuring soft drinks and sweet drinks for official use, events, or any other government-related activities. —Jeannette I. Andrade