Transforming tax with INFA-Net

INFA-Net and the digital initiatives led by ARTA, Bol, and BIR represent more than regulatory reform - they signal a real shift toward a modern, investor-friendly Philippines.

- JAO RENZO L. MERCADO, TERESA ROSE D. PARCIA, and MIKHAELLA MARTINA H. PUNO

people cannot see the rules, they cannot follow them. When government cannot see itself, it cannot improve.” Guided by this principle, ARTA aims to build a transparent and intelligent regulatory system to help citizens understand, assist businesses in compliance, and enhance government performance.

ARTA intends to take a proactive approach to addressing tax-related concerns that affect the ease of doing business. The agency works closely with the BOI, DoF, BIR, and other government agencies to resolve stakeholder issues and promote a tax environment defined by predictability and fairness.

ARTA showcased key digital initiatives, including the Philippine Business Regulation Information System for easy access to government-issued regulations, the Anti-Red Tape Electronic Management Information System for real-time database of government services and Citizen’s Charters detailing requirements, fees, and processing times, and the Electronic Business One-Stop Shop for business registration and licensing permits to cut processing time. Mr. Perez also cited major reforms such as Executive Order No. 32, which streamlined permit approvals for telecommunications and internet infrastructure, and mining process improvements that helped the Philippines rise from 72nd to 16th in the Fraser Institute’s 2024 Investment Attractiveness Index.

While some concerns remain, such as some local government units (LGUs) imposing challenging requirements, Mr. Perez assured strict enforcement and penalties for noncompliance. To strengthen accountability, ARTA launched Talk to TALA, an AI-powered complaint management system operating 24/7 to address public concerns in real time — underscoring ARTA’s push for transparency and responsiveness.