Nine key priority measures of the administration, including the value-added tax (VAT) on digital transactions, are now awaiting President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s signature, according to Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero.
Escudero shared that since his election as Senate President on May 20, 2024, the Senate has approved a total of 106 bills on third reading, with 26 already enacted into law. Among these, 12 key measures align with the administration’s legislative priorities, nine of which are ready for the President’s signature.
These measures include:
- VAT on digital transactions
- Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE)
- Amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law
- Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning Program (ARAL) Act
- Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers
- Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Economic Sabotage Act
- Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act
- Philippine Maritime Zones Act
- Enterprise-Based Education and Training Framework Act
Three other priority measures are awaiting action at the bicameral conference committee, while one is pending approval by the House of Representatives.
Escudero emphasized the Senate’s focus on the quality of legislation, noting that these high-impact laws were prioritized by both Malacañang and Congress. Looking ahead, the Senate plans to pass three to four more priority measures before concentrating on the proposed P6.532-trillion national budget for 2025.
“We acted with urgency on the President’s priority measures, and there is no time to waste. We will strive to accomplish even more under my watch,” Escudero said.