Manila: Finance Secretary Ralph Recto has announced that the Department of Finance (DOF) is exploring the implementation of a General Tax Amnesty program and the imposition of additional regulations on online gambling.
According to Philippines News Agency, Recto shared during the 2025 EJAP Economic Forum in Manila that while no new tax proposals are currently on the table, refined measures, such as the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime, are awaiting enactment. He noted that the possibility of enacting General Tax Amnesty and Online Gambling Tax laws is also under consideration. Recto clarified that the proposed General Tax Amnesty would differ from the previous bill passed by Congress, which was vetoed. He emphasized that the focus is solely on General Tax Amnesty.
In 2019, former President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Tax Amnesty Act (R.A. 11213) but partially vetoed it due to the absence of a provision lifting bank secrecy for fraud cases. Recto expressed his commitment to pushing for the passage of the General Tax Amnesty within the year, although he acknowledged the need for approval from the President or the Cabinet.
On the topic of online gambling, Recto mentioned that the government is considering stricter measures. He indicated that a whole-of-government approach is necessary and noted that the President has mentioned the possibility of calling a semi-summit to discuss the issue. One option under consideration is for the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to increase the fees and charges collected from online gaming. Recto suggested that an increase in the current rate, potentially up to 35 or 40%, is being explored, although consultation with PAGCOR is necessary since they will implement the changes.
Recto also revealed that there are proposals to ban government officials from participating in online gambling and to prohibit government-owned and controlled corporations from investing in online gambling. He supported these suggestions and highlighted that the Maharlika Investment Fund will not engage in such investments.
Lastly, Recto mentioned that the DOF is investigating the Government Service Insurance System’s PHP1-billion investment in DigiPlus Interactive Corp.
