Health advocates are urging for an increase in sin tax or alcohol tax, a call supported by the Department of Health (DOH). 

However, small store owners like Noralyn Royo express concern over the potential impact on their businesses.

Previously, the space reserved for alcoholic beverages at Royo's store was prominent. But customers reportedly started buying less as prices of alcohol went up due to the sin tax. Because of this, the store ended up displaying fewer alcoholic drinks. 

“Ang ano igdi minsan mga Sabado lang, paduwa-duwa lang na gin,” Royo said.

Royo anticipates that further increase in alcohol tax would affect sales.

Health advocates argue for higher sin taxes on alcoholic drinks to reduce consumption. According to the Global Burden of Disease health metrics for 2021, excessive alcohol consumption ranks among the top risk factors contributing to illness and disability in the Philippines.

DOH supports the proposal to raise alcohol taxes, aiming to curb alcohol consumption.

“Kasi ang pag-inom and it has been proven na — though piga sabing ‘drink in moderation’ but ang mga pag-aadal, mga studies, reveals dyawa ka ngani padikit-dikit naga inom pero may long term effect pa [rin] na negative,” DR. Rey Millena from DOH Camarines Sur, said.

Millena does not dismiss the possibility that sales may still thrive despite increased taxes.

What is more important, DOH said, is for consumers to remember limitations and to "drink responsibly."