House OKs travel tax abolition on 2nd reading

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March 13, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The proposal to abolish the travel tax for outbound Filipino travelers was approved by the House of Representatives on second reading, paving the way for easing travel costs and a boost to tourism and economic activity.

“The proposed abolition of travel tax is but a timely initiative that will not only reduce travel costs, but will also stimulate tourism-dependent sectors and encourage our countrymen to travel, thereby fostering economic opportunities and cultural exchange,” Romblon Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona, chairman of the House committee on tourism, said as the plenary approved House Bill 8464 or the Travel Tax Abolition Act of 2026.

Prior to this, HB 8464 cleared the House committee on ways and means as well as the appropriations panel. The consolidated bill seeks to repeal Presidential Decree 1183 and parts of Republic Act 9593 (Tourism Act of 2009), thereby ending the collection of P1,620 for economy class travelers and P2,700 for first class passengers.

Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo said: “As panel chair, I must emphasize a basic principle that this committee shall continue to uphold: our tax system must remain progressive.”

Other bills approved

The House of Representatives approved on Wednesday on second reading HB 8476 which proposes amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, and HB 8477 or the proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship Program Act

Also approved on second reading is HB 8468 or the e-Bayad Act that pushes government offices to shift more of their payments and collections to safe digital channels for faster and easier transactions. — Jose Rodel Clapano