Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri has filed the Travel Tax Abolition Act of 2026 seeking to abolish the decades-old travel tax, calling it an outdated burden on Filipinos flying abroad.
Created in 1977, the levy currently charges up to P2,700 for first class and P1,620 for economy, or as much as P6,480 for a family of four.
Zubiri said travel today is no longer a luxury, as many Filipinos go abroad for work, study, medical needs or to visit family.
He argued the fee no longer reflects modern realities and weighs heavily on ordinary travelers.
While the tax funds tourism, education and cultural programs, Senate Bill No. 1793 mandates alternative funding through the national budget and orders agencies to stop collecting the tax once the law takes effect, including refunds for flights scheduled after its effectivity.
“Kung gusto nating maging globally competitive at mas bukas sa mundo, we must also be fair to our own people. Abolishing the travel tax is a practical step that says we trust Filipinos to travel, explore and seize opportunities without unnecessary financial penalties,” said Zubiri.IMT
