'No new taxes likely until 2028'

The stance of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto against new taxes could extend until the end of the administration as the government will try to focus on improving tax collection efficiency first.

- LOUISE MAUREEN SIMEON

Recto is hoping that there will be no triggers that would force the Department of Finance to propose new tax measures.

“There is a possibility (of no new taxes under this administration). I think we should try first to collect what’s there. There are still so many (tax) leakages,” Recto told reporters.

“I think it is incumbent upon this administration that any increase in taxes is the last resort,” he said.

Upon his appointment in January, Recto already said that he is not inclined to impose additional taxes, especially consumption-based ones, so as not to add to Filipinos’ burden.

At the time, Recto said such a stance could last until next year. This time, he has expressed willingness to extend this until the end of the Marcos administration in 2028.

Recto has expressed his desire to run in the 2028 general elections, either for a Senate seat again or as governor of Batangas.