Are Properties Sold by Real Estate Businesses Always Classified as Ordinary Assets?
Selling Property? The BIR Has Drawn a Clearer Line in the Sand. Under Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No. 31-2025, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is tightening its stance on how real properties sold by those habitually engaged in the real estate business are classified and taxed. The distinction between capital and ordinary assets is […]
RR No. 03-2025: A Game-Changer for VAT on Digital Services in the Philippines
Think back to the last time you streamed a show, downloaded an e-book, or subscribed to a cloud service. Taxes probably weren’t top of mind—but now, these digital activities carry new tax implications. In response, the Philippine government introduced Revenue Regulations No. 03-2025. This regulation aims to establish a fairer tax environment for digital services, […]
RR 9-2025: The New VAT Rules Every Business Should Know
Picture this: you’re a business owner working with suppliers inside economic zones or freeports, and you find yourself caught in a maze of unclear VAT rules. Who’s responsible for paying VAT? When should it be remitted? To resolve this confusion, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) recently released Revenue Regulations No. 9-2025. This regulation significantly […]
PEZA M.C. No. 2025-020: Streamlining VAT Zero-Rating for Export Enterprises
Why Was This Circular Issued? In the past, VAT zero-rating rules for Registered Export Enterprises (REEs) under PEZA lacked clarity. Companies often found it difficult to determine which local transactions qualified for VAT zero-rating, resulting in confusion, compliance challenges, and inefficiencies. For instance, necessary services like janitorial or marketing were frequently disputed as to whether […]
The CREATE MORE IRR Opens More WFH Opportunities for BPO Employees
The recent implementation of the CREATE MORE IRR marks an important moment for the BPO sector in the Philippines. This legislation introduces significant benefits, particularly in taxation and work-from-home (WFH) arrangements, designed to enhance operational flexibility and competitiveness. WFH Opportunities for BPO Employees Under the signed CREATE MORE IRR, BPO companies can now allow up […]
How the CREATE MORE Act Helped a Hospitality Company Maximize its Tax Benefits
Overview A leading hotel and convention center operator, recognized as a Domestic Market Entity (DME) under Tier 1 of the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP), is leveraging tax incentives within a designated economic zone. With the implementation of the CREATE MORE Act of 2024, significant amendments have been introduced that impact business operations, particularly in restructuring […]
CREATE MORE Act Philippines: Tax Incentives & Investment Benefits for 2025
If you’re in the tourism, manufacturing, or BPO industry, now is the best time to expand your business in the Philippines. The CREATE MORE Act (Republic Act 12066), officially known as the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises – More Opportunities and Rationalization of Efficiency Act, is transforming investments in the country by offering […]
BSP Allows More Nonbank E-Money Issuers to Operate and Boost Digital Payments
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has lifted its moratorium on issuing electronic money (e-money) licenses to nonbank financial institutions. This move, announced last December 16, 2024, is expected to accelerate digital payment adoption, increase competition, and enhance financial inclusion in the Philippines. Why BSP Lifted the Moratorium on E-Money Issuers In November 2021, the […]
Understanding the VAT Refund for Tourists in the Philippines
What Is the VAT Refund Program? The Philippines’ VAT refund system is a new benefit for international travelers looking to shop and save while exploring the country. Under Republic Act No. 12079, non-resident tourists can now claim a 12% VAT refund on eligible purchases made at accredited stores. If you’ve ever wondered, “How much is […]
Are Golf or Membership Club Shares VAT-exempt?
A client recently sent a quick question via WhatsApp: “If I purchase golf club shares under a holding company, is it subject to VAT?” It’s a great question. It’s one that many business owners and investors might also be wondering about. The short answer? It depends. According to B.E.T.H. AI, which referenced tax regulations, purchasing […]