Tulfo Seeks Travel Tax Relief for Filipino Budget Travelers

Senator Raffy Tulfo has renewed his push to remove the travel tax imposed on Filipinos flying economy class to destinations abroad, citing the financial strain it places on ordinary travelers.

As chair of the Senate Committee on Public Services, Tulfo filed Senate Bill No. 88, which aims to exempt economy class passengers from paying the travel tax. The measure underscores how the tax continues to disproportionately affect budget-conscious Filipinos.

“It cannot be denied that the ordinary Filipino traveler, particularly those who travel on economy class, bears an undue financial burden because of travel tax,” Tulfo said.

He noted that the burden is worsened by other taxes already paid by Filipino citizens, including income and consumption taxes.

“This is compounded by the already heavy tax obligations imposed on Filipino citizens, including income and consumption taxes. In recognition of these circumstances, this legislative measure seeks to exempt economy class passengers from the payment of travel tax,” he added.

Tulfo clarified that the proposal does not seek to eliminate the travel tax entirely, stressing that higher-income travelers would still be covered under the existing system.

“it merely introduces a more equitable structure by retaining the imposition of travel tax on passengers traveling via business class or higher, whose financial standing affords them greater capacity to contribute to national development.”

He further emphasized that government funding for key agencies would remain intact under the proposed measure.

“The government shall continue to secure the necessary resources for TIEZA, CHED, and the NCCA, ensuring the sustainability of essential programs and projects, while alleviating the financial strain on the average Filipino traveler,” Tulfo said.