Senator Erwin Tulfo has filed Senate Bill No. 1409 seeking to abolish the travel tax imposed on Filipino travelers, calling it a financial burden that limits the right to travel abroad. The bill aims to eliminate what Tulfo describes as an outdated levy that continues to be imposed despite the Philippines’ commitment under the 2002 ASEAN Tourism Agreement, which mandates the removal of travel taxes among ASEAN nations.
In his explanatory note, Tulfo wrote, “Nearly fourteen years after its signing, such travel taxes continue to be imposed. This measure represents a concrete step toward ensuring that travel becomes more equitable, accessible, and reasonably priced for Filipinos.” He also emphasized that “the responsibility of strengthening tourism programs and infrastructure rests with the national government and should not be shifted to taxpayers, who already contribute substantially through various forms of taxation.”
The proposed law would prohibit the collection of travel taxes once enacted. Travelers with tickets scheduled on or after the bill’s effectivity would be entitled to immediate refunds. At present, adult Filipino passengers pay ₱2,700 for first class and ₱1,620 for economy, while certain groups such as dependents of overseas Filipino workers enjoy reduced rates.
Under current law, 50% of travel tax collections go to the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), 40% to the Commission on Higher Education(CHED) for tourism-related programs, and 10% to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). Tulfo’s bill proposes that these programs instead be funded through appropriations under the General Appropriations Act.
If passed, the measure is expected to ease costs for millions of Filipino travelers and align the Philippines with regional travel standards. The Department of Finance, however, has projected potential annual revenue losses of up to ₱5.1 billion. Supporters argue the move will stimulate tourism growth and economic activity, offsetting the shortfall through increased traveler volume.
Most airlines currently include the travel tax in ticket prices, but travelers may also settle it online via the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority’s website or through airport counters on the day of departure.
