CCPI outlines 6-pt agenda to support tax reform bills

MANILA, Philippines — The Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands (CCPI) has come up with a six-point agenda aimed at further ensuring the efficient and proper implementation of the proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Program (TRAIN).

CCPI president Jose Luis Yulo Jr. said foremost in the group’s list is the continuous 24-hour work of the Build Build Build infrastructure program on  two to three shifts per day, notably for projects that will obstruct or constrict mobility.

“Leaving construction unattended will slow down, if not paralyze the mobility needed by the economy,” Yulo said.

CCPI also recommended the full implementation of the Flag Law.

The law gives preference to Filipino owned domestic companies with respect to  government purchases of goods, services  and infrastructure projects.

Yulo cited China and other progressive countries using infrastructure projects and government purchases to strengthen their locally owned companies and citizens’ skills.

“The materials and equipment are likewise locally sourced. Foreign experts, if needed, should only be brought in to complement local owned companies, with Filipinos benefitting from technology and skills transfer,” he said.

“This way, we are pushing Filipinos and Philippine-owned companies to be pro-actively involved, instead of just being plain workers of foreigners in our own country,” the business leader added.

CCPI’s third recommendation is to go for best designs, best technology, and best quality to “match the best in the world, with added specifications for protection against floods, earthquakes and strong winds.”

It also called for the earmarking of direct taxes. “When a particular project is finished, the direct tax should be directed to other projects or the tax is cancelled,” Yulo said.

“Through these programs, we hope to be able to catch up with our ASEAN neighbors who are way ahead in their infrastructure program,” he added.

The last recommendation being made by the group is for competitive, efficient and honest tax rates, and collection.

“Better procedures and mechanics be put in place to ensure better tax collection and that increased taxes are spent on time, properly, efficiently sans corruption,” Yulo said.