Bill seen to boost health initiatives

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–Another legislator seeks the immediate passage of House Bill No. 5013 to strengthen the country’s pro-health and pro-youth initiatives as an addendum to the Sin Tax law and the recently approved Graphic Health Warning law.

Valenzuela’s 2nd District Rep. Magtanggol T. Gunigundo lauded the bill’s premise to deny youth access by proposing a Minimum Cigarette Price (MCP) per pack of cigarettes as the bill makes it expensive for prospective young smokers.

HB 5013, filed by Romblon Rep. Eleandro Madrona, sets a minimum cigarette price of P38 beginning January 2015, P44 by 2016 and P51 by 2017. The price will be raised annually by four percent come January 2018, consistent with the increase of excise taxes.

The outspoken solon said the bill’s two-pronged approach will not only help reduce the number of smokers but will also provide additional revenues for the government.

No decrease in smoking incidence

A recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, commissioned by the Department of Health (DOH), showed that the country’s overall smoking incidence had not significantly decreased since the Sin Tax law took effect.

“Hopefully, the bill, if passed, will produce more promising results,” Gunigundo said.

“As lawmakers, it is also our duty to help our countrymen live a long, happy and healthy life with their loved ones and families,” he added.

The bill also imposes hefty fines as any manufacturer, importer or retailer that sells below the MCP will be imprisoned for a period of not less than six months nor more than five years and a fine ranging from P50,000.00 to P2,000,000.00.

If a business establishment is proven to be a violator, both penalties shall apply in addition to the suspension or revocation of their business licenses or permits.