Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
Third Regular Session 
House Bill No. 10708 
Introduced by Representative Richard I. Gomez, DPA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The consumption of soft drinks and sugary beverages has been consistently linked to 
numerous health issues, which poses a significant public health challenge. The high sugar content 
in these beverages contributes to excessive calorie intake without providing essential nutrients, 
leading to weight gain and obesity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity 
rates have been increasing globally, and the Philippines is not exempt from this trend. 
Regular consumption of sugary drinks is associated with an increased risk of type 2 
diabetes. The sugar content can cause spikes in blood glucose levels, leading to insulin resistance 
over time. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has highlighted the rising prevalence of 
diabetes in the Philippines, which has significant economic and social implications. 
Studies have shown that high sugar intake is linked to various cardiovascular diseases, 
including hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes. Sugar is known to increase blood pressure and 
inflammation, contributing to the development of heart disease. The sugar in these beverages is 
also a leading cause of dental caries and cavities. It promotes the growth of harmful bacteria in the 
mouth, leading to tooth decay and other dental issues. 
Given these health risks, it is imperative for the government to take proactive measures to 
reduce the consumption of soft drinks and sugary beverages, particularly within its own 
institutions. This bill seeks to ban the procurement of these unhealthy beverages by government 
offices, agencies, and institutions, thereby setting a positive example and fostering a culture of 
health and wellness. 
August 5, 2024
8:00 am


By banning the procurement of soft drinks and sweet drinks, the government can 
significantly reduce the consumption of these unhealthy drinks among its employees and the 
public. This initiative aligns with the broader public health goals of reducing non-communicable 
diseases (NCDs) and promoting healthier lifestyles. 
Reducing the consumption of sugary beverages can lead to lower healthcare costs 
associated with treating obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and dental problems. These savings can 
be redirected towards more productive and preventive health initiatives. 
This bill complements current health policies and programs, such as the National Nutrition 
Council's initiatives to promote healthy eating habits and the Department of Health's campaigns 
against lifestyle-related diseases. 
The government, by implementing this policy, sets a standard for other sectors to follow, 
including private institutions, schools, and households. It demonstrates a commitment to public 
health that can inspire similar measures in other areas. 
The "Bawal Soft Drinks at Sweet Drinks sa Gobeyerno Act" is a necessary step towards 
creating a healthier environment in government workplaces and institutions. It reflects the 
government's commitment to safeguarding the health of its citizens and addressing the growing 
burden of diet-related diseases. By implementing this policy, the government can lead by example 
and promote a culture of health and wellness across the nation. 
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
RICHARD I. GOMEZ, DPA 


Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
Third Regular Session 
House Bill No. 10708 
___________________________________________________________________________ 
Introduced by Representative Richard I. Gomez, DPA 
___________________________________________________________________________ 
AN ACT BANNING THE PROCUREMENT OF SOFT DRINKS AND SUGARY 
BEVERAGES BY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, AGENCIES, AND INSTITUTIONS AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. – This Act shall be known as the "Bawal Soft Drinks at Sweet 
Drinks sa Gobyerno Act." 
 SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. – It is the policy of the State to promote public health and 
nutrition, especially in government workplaces and institutions. The government recognizes the 
adverse health impacts of excessive sugar consumption, particularly from soft drinks and sugary 
beverages, and aims to reduce these through preventive measures. 
SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. – For purposes of this Act: 
a.
"Soft drinks" refers to non-alcoholic beverages that contain carbonated water, a
sweetener, and a natural or artificial flavoring.
b. "Sweet drinks" refers to drinks that contain added sugar or other sweeteners,
including but not limited to sodas, fruit drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, and
sweetened coffee or tea.


         SEC. 4. Prohibition. –  No government office, agency, or institution, including but not 
limited to national government agencies (NGAs), local government units (LGUs), government-
owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and public 
hospitals, shall procure soft drinks and sweet drinks for official use, events, or any other 
government-related activities. 
 
SEC. 5. Monitoring and Compliance. – The Commission on Audit (COA) shall include 
compliance with this Act in their regular audit of government offices, agencies, and institutions. 
Non-compliance shall be reported to the appropriate authorities for necessary action. 
 
SEC. 6. Implementing Rules and Regulations. – The Department of Health (DOH), in 
coordination with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), shall promulgate the 
necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act within ninety (90) days 
from its effectivity. The IRR shall include, but not limited to: 
 
a. A list of beverages that are not eligible for procurement by any government office, 
agency or institution; and  
b. Monitoring and compliance mechanisms. 
 
SEC. 7. Appropriation. – The amount necessary to implement the provisions of this Act 
shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
 
         SEC. 8. Separability Clause. – If any provision of this Act is declared invalid or 
unconstitutional, the remaining provisions not affected thereby shall remain in full force and effect. 
 
         SEC. 9. Repealing Clause. – All laws, decrees, orders, rules, and regulations or parts 
thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
 
         SEC. 10. Effectivity. – This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in at 
least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
 
         Approved,