Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos on Wednesday introduced a measure aimed at removing the travel tax, citing its diminishing relevance and impact on the cost of travel for Filipinos.
The bill, filed as House Bill No. 7443, proposes ending the collection of departure charges authorized by Presidential Decree No. 1183 and related provisions of the Tourism Act of 2009, which currently impose fees of up to P2,700 on premium passengers and P1,620 on economy travelers.
Marcos said the levy was crafted decades ago under economic conditions that no longer apply, and has since turned into an obstacle for those traveling abroad for employment, family matters, or personal advancement.
He added that the tax comes on top of airport and terminal fees, further straining household budgets and limiting how families can spend or save their income.
According to Marcos, high travel costs dampen mobility and consumer activity, while easing such expenses could encourage spending and widen economic participation.
The lawmaker also pointed out that many Southeast Asian countries have already removed comparable travel-related charges to strengthen tourism, trade, and cross-border exchanges, leaving the Philippines increasingly out of step with regional practices.
Marcos said the proposal would not deprive tourism, culture, and education agencies of government support, as funding currently sourced from the travel tax would instead be provided through the annual General Appropriations Act.