MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – The government of the Philippines is serious about improving the health status of Filipinos and preventing the onset or exacerbation of common diet-related illnesses such as diabetes, kidney disease and obesity.

A major strategy of the government is to impose new or increased taxes on sugary as well as salty foods on both stakeholders — manufacturers and consumers.

But in order to avoid being accused of discrimination, the Marcos administration is now also contemplating on taxing manufacturers and consumers of bland and spicy foods — to the disappointment of tokwa (tofu) makers and laing fans.

All for one, one for all.