Sotto finds additional tax on e-cigs a ‘bit high’

MANILA, Philippines — The additional excise of P45 per milliliter of e-cigarettes that a Senate committee has approved was a “bit high,” according to Senate President Vicente Sotto III.

Sotto said he expected business groups, health advocates and other concerned sectors to “lobby” for the most acceptable rate.

The Senate ways and means committee, chaired by Sen. Pia Cayetano, submitted last week its report on the proposed new duties on alcohol, e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products for plenary deliberations.

The committee had adopted the tax adjustments presented by the Department of Finance, which had also been approved by the House of Representatives.

Speaking at a news forum on Saturday, Sotto said it would be difficult for the Senate to come up with its version before it goes on a break on Oct. 4.

“Personally, I think the [new excise for e-cigarettes] was a bit high. But it will still depend on our debates,” Sotto said.

“I don’t blame the committee for coming out with a report to that effect,” he added. —Marlon Ramos