From Policy to Action: Strengthening Alcohol Control Efforts in the Philippines
Alcohol consumption is a major public health concern, contributing to significant economic, social, and health-related burdens worldwide. With approximately 3 million deaths annually, alcohol accounts for 5.3% of global mortality and 5% of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The consequences of alcohol use extend beyond the individual, affecting communities, families, and healthcare systems. Alcohol is linked to various health conditions, including injuries, digestive disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Young adults aged 20 to 39 are especially vulnerable, making up 14% of alcohol-attributable deaths. The global burden of diseases related to alcohol accounts for 5.1% of all diseases and injuries worldwide. Furthermore, alcohol-related harm extends beyond the drinker, affecting families, communities, and society at large. Beyond its health implications, alcohol consumption poses a substantial economic burden. The costs associated with alcohol-related harms contribute to financial losses, increased healthcare expenditures, and productivity declines. Studies suggest that the economic costs of alcohol-related harm account for approximately 0.01% of a country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Research also indicates that higher alcohol consumption correlates with a greater disease burden, highlighting the need for stronger preventative measures to mitigate its rising economic impact. Moreover, alcohol consumption is linked to various social issues, including absenteeism, domestic violence, community disturbances, and increased mortality. It can also impose a significant burden on families, affecting the emotional, financial, and psychological well-being of caregivers, particularly spouses. Countries worldwide implement various policy interventions to address alcohol-related harms. The World Health Organization also released guidelines on how to implement alcohol control initiatives within member states such as the SAFER initiative, which encompasses the five most cost-effective interventions for reducing alcohol harm. The SAFER initiative includes activities that aim to: Strengthen restrictions on alcohol availability; Advance and enforce drink driving counter measures; Facilitate access to screening, brief interventions and treatment; Enforce bans or comprehensive restrictions on alcohol advertising, sponsorship and promotion; and, Raise prices on alcohol through excise taxes and pricing policies. Taking the Philippines as an example, it has been identified that cultural norms, aggressive marketing, and public health challenges contribute to high alcohol consumption rates. Among young people, alcohol preferences are often influenced by product type and pricing. Alarmingly, alcohol marketing has also been linked to an increase in drunkenness among students. The Philippine government has implemented several alcohol control laws such as: Sin Tax Reform Law (RA 10351), was legislated in December 2012, with the dual goals of (1) curbing cigarette and alcohol consumption, and (2) raising funds to finance the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC) activities, programs to meet Developmental Goals, and viable alternative livelihood for tobacco farmers. Excise Taxes on Alcohol and E-Cigarettes (RA 11467), passed in 2020, increased the excise taxes on alcohol products, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), and heated tobacco products (HTPs). The additional revenue funds the Universal Health Care (UHC) efforts such as additional medical assistance and support to local governments, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act (RA 10586), enacted in 2013, penalized the acts of driving under the influence of alcohol, dangerous drugs, and other intoxicating substances. However, there are estimates, through the Philippines’ national nutrition survey, that the number of adolescents (aged 10-19 years old) who consume alcohol monthly has doubled from 2021 to 2023 – citing an alcohol epidemic within the country. This highlights a need to evaluate the current efforts and policies targeted towards reducing alcohol consumption. One of the reasons why policy efforts to reduce alcohol consumption in the Philippines face significant challenges may be the deep-rooted ties between alcohol companies and the national government. Major alcohol producers are not only key players in the beverage industry but also prominent contributors to national infrastructure projects, donation drives, and other corporate social responsibility initiatives. This likely influences major policy decisions, often tilting the scales in favor of these corporations when it comes to regulating alcohol marketing and consumption. Despite these challenges, various organizations across the country continue to push for stronger alcohol harm reduction measures. Last year, these groups united in advocating for the designation of September as National Alcohol Harms Awareness Month, established a Community of Practice with clinicians, government agencies, civil society organizations, and researchers, spearheaded studies on alcohol policies, and launched extensive information and education campaigns. Yet, political will and public support are crucial to driving meaningful change. As Filipinos often say, “Malayo na, pero malayo pa”—we’ve come far, but there is still a long way to go. The fight against alcohol harms is far from over, and now, more than ever, is the time to keep pushing forward. About the Author Bill Whilson Baljon Public Health Advocate Bill Whilson Baljon is a public health advocate from the Philippines. He is dedicated to promoting health equity and empowering communities through his work in health promotion, policy advocacy, and community engagement.
