THE Departments of Finance (DoF) and Health (DoH) warned on Friday that the government would not be able to fully implement its Universal Health Care program — as it would be short of P63 billion in funds — if the planned sin-tax increase fails to pass into law.

KICKING THE HABIT Iconic anti-smoking mascot “Yosi Kadiri” graces Friday’s joint news conference of the Finance and Health departments on new taxes on tobacco and alcoholic products. Health Secretary Francisco Duque 3rd (2nd from left) playfully punches the mascot as Finance chief Carlos Dominguez 3rd (right) and two other guests join the fun. PHOTO BY ENRIQUE AGCAOILI

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