Travel tax economy class passengers may soon get relief as Senator Raffy Tulfo renews efforts to remove the fee imposed on budget airline travelers.

Senator Raffy Tulfo has renewed calls to remove the travel tax imposed on economy class airline passengers, saying the levy places an unnecessary financial burden on ordinary Filipinos who are already grappling with rising living costs. The proposal, refiled as Senate Bill No. 88, seeks to exempt economy class travelers from paying the travel tax regardless of their destination, whether domestic or international.

Tulfo said the measure is meant to provide relief to passengers who deliberately choose economy class to save money. According to the senator, these travelers are often overseas Filipino workers, students, and families who fly out of necessity rather than luxury. For many of them, the additional travel tax comes on top of airfare, terminal fees, and other charges, making travel significantly more expensive.

The senator stressed that economy class passengers are already among the most cost-conscious travelers. He argued that imposing a travel tax on this group is unfair, especially at a time when Filipinos are dealing with higher prices for basic goods and services. Tulfo added that many travelers are surprised by the travel tax, which is sometimes paid separately from airline tickets, adding to their financial stress.

Tulfo also pointed out that Filipinos are already subject to various forms of taxation, including income and consumption taxes. He said the continued collection of travel tax from economy class passengers effectively adds to the heavy tax burden borne by ordinary citizens. In his view, removing the tax for this group would be a step toward a more equitable tax system.

Supporters of the proposal believe that scrapping the travel tax for economy class passengers could help stimulate travel and tourism. Lower travel costs may encourage more Filipinos to fly, potentially increasing passenger traffic and benefiting airlines, airports, and tourism-related businesses. Advocates say this could help offset any revenue losses from the exemption through increased economic activity.

The bill does not propose a total abolition of the travel tax. Under Senate Bill No. 88, only economy class passengers would be exempt, while those flying in business or first class would continue to pay the levy. Tulfo described this approach as a balanced solution that provides relief to those who need it most while still generating funds from higher-paying travelers.

However, some critics have raised concerns about the possible impact on government revenue, particularly funds allocated for tourism development and promotion. The travel tax has traditionally been used to support tourism programs, and opponents worry that exemptions could reduce available resources. Tulfo has responded by urging the government to explore alternative funding sources that do not disproportionately affect low- and middle-income travelers.

The measure is still subject to committee deliberations and further debates in the Senate. Lawmakers are expected to examine its fiscal impact and assess whether the potential benefits to travelers and the tourism industry outweigh possible revenue losses.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, public reaction has been largely supportive, with many Filipinos welcoming efforts to reduce the cost of air travel. For now, the proposal has reignited discussion on fairness in taxation and whether travel should be made more accessible to ordinary Filipinos who rely on economy class flights.