Chiz: Tax on text is like robbery in broad daylight

Opposition Senator Chiz Escudero on Wednesday said imposing a tax on text messaging is tantamount to government "robbing the people" in broad daylight.

"Whether it's 10 centavos or 5 centavos, I will still oppose the measure. I am against imposing tax on text messaging because I believe it will be borne by those who have less in life," he said in a statement.

"Texting is no longer a luxury; it is the easiest way to connect with loved ones and friends. Text messaging will suddenly become more expensive as the tax can be passed on to end users," Escudero added.

The senator described the plan as "lazy man's quick fix" aimed at responding to the expected loss in revenues due to the worsening economic crisis.

The senator cautioned the lower house from taxing the patience of the people.

"These are difficult times. Let us think instead of ways to ease the people's plight," Escudero said.