Vape Tax Cut: Youth At Risk

The escalating prevalence of vaping among Filipino youth represents an urgent public health crisis that demands immediate attention, with recent studies from the Department of Health indicating a 400% increase in youth vaping rates between 2019 and 2023.

Comprehensive research published in the Philippine Journal of Pediatrics reveals alarming statistics: 27% of Filipino students aged 13-15 have tried vaping, with 14% being regular users – a figure that has doubled in just three years.

Medical experts from the Philippine Medical Association have documented a disturbing rise in respiratory issues among young vapers, with cases of e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI) increasing by 178% in the past two years.

House Bill 11360, dubbed the “Sin Tax Sabotage Bill,” has sparked intense debate among lawmakers, with proponents arguing it would generate government revenue while maintaining reasonable pricing to prevent black market proliferation.

The Department of Finance estimates that the proposed tax reduction could lead to a 15-20% decrease in vaping product prices, making them significantly more affordable for young consumers.

Recent studies from the Philippine Pediatric Society show that flavored vaping products are particularly attractive to youth, with 85% of young users citing flavors as their primary reason for initiation.

The bill’s supporters maintain that regulated vaping products provide a safer alternative for adult smokers seeking to quit traditional cigarettes.

However, research from the Philippine College of Chest Physicians demonstrates that vaping-related lung injuries have increased by 156% since 2022, with teenagers comprising 45% of reported cases.

The economic implications of the bill are significant, with the Bureau of Internal Revenue projecting a potential revenue loss of ₱15 billion in the first year alone if the reduced tax rates are implemented.

Health advocates point to successful vaping control measures in countries like Singapore and Thailand, where strict regulations have led to significant reductions in youth vaping rates.

The proposed legislation contradicts recommendations from the World Health Organization, which advocates for higher taxation as an effective tool to prevent youth initiation of vaping.

Parents Against Vape’s call for raising the minimum legal age to 21 aligns with international best practices that have shown success in reducing youth access to vaping products.

Medical professionals emphasize that while vaping may be less harmful than traditional smoking, it still poses significant health risks, including nicotine addiction, respiratory problems, and potential long-term cognitive effects in young users.

The current regulatory framework’s shift of oversight from the FDA to the Department of Trade and Industry has raised concerns about prioritizing commercial interests over public health considerations.

As the Philippines grapples with this public health challenge, the outcome of House Bill 11360 could significantly impact the trajectory of youth vaping rates and associated health consequences for years to come.

With the midterm elections approaching, voters should consider electing leaders who prioritize public health over industry profits. Weakening existing laws through bills like House Bill 11360 could exacerbate the nicotine addiction crisis among youth. It is our collective responsibility to protect the health and future of our children by ensuring harmful products are kept out of their reach.