NGOs ask Congress to OK tax reform

MANILA, Philippines -  An umbrella group consisting of nongovernment organizations is urging Congress to immediately approve the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program, which is seen to beef up government’s coffers.

The Open Government Partnership (OGP), which consists of 66 people’s organizations, civil society and academic groups, public sector unions and business chambers, appealed for the swift passage of the CTRP, which is now contained in House Bill 5636.

“We appeal to the members of the House of Representatives and the Philippine Senate to swiftly pass this legislative measure to help generate more revenue that will finance investments on the people through health, education, infrastructure and social protection programs,” the OGP said in its manifesto of support for the tax reform program.

 “We believe that the correction of the tax system, which has been long overdue, will complement initiatives for transparent and participatory governance in order for the country to achieve the country’s sustainable development goals,” it added.

OGP members said they expect the adjustment of personal income tax rates to give relief to overburdened taxpayers.

It also expects the increased excise taxes on oil, automobiles and sugar-sweetened beverages to regulate the consumption of these products.

“The rationalization of the value-added tax exemptions will make the indirect tax efficient and less prone to corruption and abuse,” the OGP said.