Philippines advocates lower-risk nicotine products and tax cuts for smokers
The Philippine Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates urged tax relief for e-cigarettes, heated tobacco and nicotine pouches, citing studies that show they are less harmful than cigarettes.
At a national summit in Pasay City, PHILTHRA presented scientific evidence that vaping and other smokefree nicotine products pose lower health risks than combustible cigarettes. The group called for lower taxes on these alternatives to encourage adult smokers to switch completely. Participants warned that matching cigarette tax rates would undermine harm-reduction goals. The summit aimed to shape future nicotine-policy regulations in the Philippines.
Why it matters
Lower taxes on less-harmful nicotine products could shift smokers toward safer alternatives, impacting public health and tax policy.
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