Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed a law imposing a 12% value-added tax (VAT) on non-resident digital service providers, including major streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO, and Disney.
This new law is among the first revenue-generating measures prioritized by the Marcos administration. It encompasses a wide range of digital services, including online search engines, media, advertising platforms, as well as digital marketplaces and goods, and cloud services.
“If you are reaping the rewards of a fruitful digital economy here, it is only right that you contribute also to its growth,” Marcos stated during the signing event. He emphasized that the legislation aims to equalize the tax obligations of local businesses and international digital platforms.
The Philippines, known for having one of the highest rates of mobile phone usage globally, is leveraging technology companies to boost revenue for infrastructure projects and other government initiatives amid fiscal constraints. The Finance Department estimates that the VAT on foreign digital services could generate approximately 79.5 billion pesos (US$1.4 billion or RM5.8 billion) over the next four years.

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