FDA expands VAT exemption list for cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, mental illness drugs

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded its list of VAT-exempt medicines to include drugs for cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, and mental illness, effective June 4.

Two new cancer medications, two for diabetes, one for high cholesterol, two for hypertension, and three for mental illnesses have been added to the VAT exemption list under FDA Advisory No. 2025-0510 dated June 4.

The exempted medicines include Tegafur + Gimeracil + Oteracil Potassium capsules in two dosages for cancer, Metformin Hydrochloride + Teneligliptin tablets in two dosages for diabetes, and Atorvastatin (as calcium) + Fenobribrate film-coated tablet for high cholesterol.

For hypertension treatments, the FDA added Metoprolol tartrate + Ivabradine film-coated tablets in two dosages, while mental illness medicines include Lamotrigine dispersible/chewable and oral dispersible tablets as well as a standard tablet dosage.

The initiative aims to reduce healthcare costs and improve access to quality medication for Filipinos dealing with chronic and critical illnesses, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive.