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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Health chief backs proposed added tax on sugary drinks, junk food

Health chief backs proposed added tax on sugary drinks, junk food

Published Jun 26, 2023 09:44 am
Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa expressed support for the proposed added tax on sugary drinks and junk food. (https://images.mb.com.ph/production/mb-mkt-neo-prod-1-uploads/photo_1613919113640_25732ec5e61f_432deff482/photo_1613919113640_25732ec5e61f_432deff482.avif) Courtesy of Unsplash
In a media conference on Monday, June 26, the health chief cited obesity as one of the most common health problems among Filipinos, even at a young age, mainly due to the types of food and drinks mentioned. Lack of physical activity also contributes to having this health condition, he added. In research conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, 36.6 percent, or 27 million Filipinos aged 20 years or older, meet the World Health Organization's body mass index cutoff point for being overweight or obese. "Nearly four out of 10 adults are overweight or obese, putting them at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases," said Novo Nordisk from said research group. Herbosa hoped that the increased tax on sugary drinks and junk food would push the public to have a healthier lifestyle as well as help fund the government's social and health services. According to the Department of Finance, a P12 beverage tax rate per liter of any sugary drink, regardless of the type of sweetener used, will be imposed in accordance with the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law.

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tax hike sugary beverages junk food DOH Secretary Dr. Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa Department of Health (DOH)
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