Roxas on tax cuts: Programs could suffer

Presidential contender Manuel Roxas II revealed on Monday, September 28 his views on cutting income taxes, saying that while taxes needed to be reviewed periodically, state programs could suffer with a cut in taxes. “I think it’s also incumbent for those proposing to remove certain taxes to think about what programs will be cut as a result. It’s easy to grandstand, easy to make yourself look good by saying, ‘Let’s not collect taxes, let’s trim down taxes to zero.’ But what programs will suffer?” said Roxas in Filipino at the sidelines of the National Unity Party’s national convention. Roxas added that key programs under the Aquino administration such as classroom construction, the expansion of PhilHealth coverage and the conditional cash transfer program could suffer as a result of a cut in taxes. Several lawmakers, including administration allies, are pushing for legislation that would lower income tax rates in the country. President Benigno Aquino III does not support this move, as well as the Department of Finance. Two other declared 2016 presidential candidates are supportive of tax cuts – Vice President Jejomar Binay for reduced income and corporate tax rates, and Senator Grace Poe for lower income tax rates. 

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