Manila: The proposed abolition of the travel tax is among the 21 priority legislative measures approved by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. under the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC), Malaca±ang announced on Tuesday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized the President's commitment to easing the financial burden on travelers, highlighting that many Filipinos travel for various essential purposes beyond leisure.
According to Philippines News Agency, Castro elaborated on the current allocation of the travel tax, where 50 percent is directed to the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority's (TIEZA) projects, 40 percent to educational assistance and scholarships, and 10 percent to cultural promotion. Addressing concerns about reduced funding for education and tourism, she assured that the government would compensate any funding shortfalls through the national budget once the bill is enacted. Castro noted that economic managers are examining the potential benefits of the measure, particularly in reducing travel costs, with further discussions on the revenue impact to follow during the bill's formal drafting.
During the LEDAC meeting, President Marcos highlighted other significant legislative measures, including the Expanded Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children Act, the proposed legislation against fake news, and the bill concerning the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections. He also expressed urgency for the anti-political dynasty law. Senator Risa Hontiveros reported that the Senate has initiated public consultations on the anti-dynasty measure, with plans for further consultations across Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. Meanwhile, House Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III confirmed that the House will also conduct nationwide consultations.
Additionally, President Marcos reiterated his support for the Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act, the Independent People's Commission Act, and the Party-list System Reform Act.
