DoF: P8.6B from EVAT went to social services

The government has spent over P8.6 billion of the Expanded Value-Added Tax revenue on social services and infrastructure projects in the first half of 2006, according to a report from the Department of Finance.

"This report is part of our efforts to show (the) people where their taxes go," said DOF Secretary Margarito Teves.

The report showed that over P1 billion was spent on education, and another P1 billion on health insurance for the poor.

About P1.5 billion was earmarked for school feeding programs, P500 million for the extension of the Light Rail Transit line from Metro Manila to Cavite, and P240 million for rural electrification.

Teves thanked the business community and the taxpayers for their support. "Their sacrifice is starting to pay off, resulting in significant benefits for our people and our economy." - Gregg M. Rubio/LPM