MANILA, Philippines — With 20 affirmative votes and no negative votes, the Senate on Friday approved on third and final reading a measure that aims to raise the excise tax on tobacco products. The Senate Bill No. 2233 proposes a staggered increase in the excise tax per cigarette pack from 2020 to 2023. READ: Tobacco tax hike bill endorsed for plenary approvalAfter the approval of the bill, the Senate will transmit their version to the House of Representatives for review. READ: House commits to adopt Senate tobacco tax hike bill — SottoOnce both chambers of Congress approve the measure, the enrolled bill will be transmitted to President Rodrigo Duterte for signature.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer June 03, 2019 11:45 UTC