“I don’t think it’s a good idea. One, it might be able to cut the number of times people smoke in a day but I don’t think it will get people to stop smoking in general. If the government really wanted to lessen the number of smokers in the country, I think it would be better for them to create an awareness campaign. Two, the people who will lose their jobs due to this bill will be at a disadvantage in terms of looking for new jobs. And third, we have no assurance that the government will use the money they collect wisely.”
Isabela Gatbonton, I AB Psy
“The Sin Tax bill is kind of a win-win situation na for us in a sense that we are given the chance to alleviate or basically lessen the consumption of these vices, which is obviously beneficial for the country and for our own good, yet at the same time, [will] make the Philippines better economically, which is one of the necessary goals of the country.”
Samantha King Sy, II BS Mgt
“Need I say more? No more need for debates. The bill is quite promising. It doesn’t just provide our country [an] economic facelift but it also aims to better the lifestyles and health of our fellows. Sin Tax bill should be passed now!”
Ace Paolo M. Dela Cruz, II AB Pos/MPM
“I am for the passage of Sin Tax bill. Aside from the fact that our government can receive revenues from it which can be utilized for basic social services especially for health, I think it will curb the growing number of people that are into vices such as cigarettes and alcohol. We should teach our people how to cope with stress and enjoy guilt-free pleasure aside from dependence [on] smoking and drinking. A healthier population reflects a healthier nation.”
Roger A. Cabiles Jr., Student Affairs Professional, Office for Social Concern and Involvement
“I will be honest; I have not read the actual bill itself. But based from the info I have from social media and TV, I would say that I agree to the passage of this bill. This bill shows concern to us Filipinos by promoting a healthy lifestyle to us. Price is always a major factor to us when we buy goods, considering that most Filipinos are in poverty, so people will think twice whenever they buy a cigarette. Saka mababawasan din ‘yung mga kabataang nagsisimulang manigarilyo at a young age kasi malaking bawas ‘yun sa allowance nila.”
Eunice E. Dauz, III AB Comm
