President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed a new law on Monday, November 11, that eases tax incentives for businesses in the Philippines, including taxation for companies in special economic zones.
The Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) amends the CREATE law, which was created to lower corporate income tax rates for businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We have improved our tax and incentive system, making it more attractive for investments—while maintaining the principle of prudent and stable finances. CREATE MORE clarifies the rules on VAT (value added tax) and duty incentives, and further expands its coverage to include non-registered exporters and high-value domestic market enterprises," said Marcos.
Registered businesses are once again eligible for VAT incentives for expenses essential to their operations.
"This means that essential expenses—those that are necessary and related to their operations—can once again be zero-rated, just like before the implementation of the CREATE Act," said Marcos.
Key changes in the law include a shortened process for VAT and excise refunds, reduction of compliance requirements, and clarification of local taxation during the Income Tax Holiday and Enhanced Deductions Regime.
There will also be greater tax relief for businesses under the Enhanced Deductions Regime, including a reduction in income tax rates from 20% to 25%. There will also be cuts in electricity expenses and a 50% reduction in tourism reinvestments and trade fair expenses.
CREATE MORE also provides clear regulations for work-from-home setups in ecozones.
Due to the pandemic, many started working from home, which affected businesses within ecozones that receive tax incentives. The law states that registered business projects must be within the geographical boundaries of the zone or freeport to avail of tax breaks, but up to 50% of employees may work from home.
"As recognition of the growing trend of work arrangements worldwide, this law provides flexibility for registered businesses to implement work-from-home arrangements for up to half of their workforce without losing their eligibility for incentives. Through this, we position the Philippines as a progressive economy ready to address the needs of the digital age," said Marcos.
The CREATE MORE is set to encourage investors in the Philippines while streamlining the business process. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said that the law will help create more high-quality jobs.
"CREATE MORE will open up more high-quality investments from our international and local investors. It will not only encourage new investments and grow existing businesses, but it will also increase the income of our countrymen and reduce poverty," said Recto.
Senate President Francis Escudero also stated that business owners have long been seeking clear tax policies.
"The most important thing is that it will create a more favorable investment climate that will generate more jobs and promote development without harming our revenue base," said Escudero.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Martin Romualdez also mentioned that there were complaints from business owners regarding the confusion caused by the original CREATE law. Lawmakers had to act swiftly to protect existing investments.
"We hope that these changes will be sufficient for our current investors and attract more foreign capital. The enactment of this new law demonstrates our strong commitment to maintaining and attracting investments that will safeguard jobs and create more opportunities for our countrymen," said Romualdez.
