By Chino S. Leyco Two groups advocating alternative tobacco products urged Congress to reconsider the bill seeking to level the tax rates of e-cigarettes and vapes with combustible cigarettes saying such measure would discourage smokers from quitting the unhealthy habit. In two separate statements released by the Philippine E-Cigarette Industry Association (PECIA) and Vapers PH, the groups rejected the substitute version of House Bill No. 1026 that the lower Congress approved on second reading last week. The House ways and means committee initially endorsed HB-1026 to seek for an increase in alcohol tax, but the lawmakers during their plenary deliberation expanded the bill’s scope by including e-cigarettes and vaping products. HB-1026 proposes to impose higher excise taxes on e-cigarettes and vaping products from P10 to P30 beginning next year. For Vapers PH, the action by Congress was “inconsiderate and irresponsible,” thus the substitute HB-1026 “should be reviewed with proper public consultation.” According to Vapers PH, “Heavy sanctions on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products will result in a public health tragedy”. This, as smokers will be forced to stick to conventional cigarettes instead of switching to “less harmful nicotine products.” “In making the tax for e-cigarettes the same as regular cigarettes, smokers will simply continue to smoke. This defeats the government’s goal to reduce the number of Filipino smokers,” Vapers PH said. PECIA, likewise, denounced Congress’ zero public consultation about the proposed legislation. “Our organization could have provided the resources and studies to aid House Representatives understand tobacco harm reduction strategies being embraced by some countries,” PCIA said.