Duterte says fate of TRAIN law for Congress to decide

(Eagle News) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday, June 3, said the fate of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion law was up to Congress.

“I leave it to Congress to decide whether or not to amend, or suspend, or modify the law,” the President said in a speech prior to his departure to South Korea at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

The President, however, added that money was needed to fund government programs including the ambitious Build, build, build project.

“(Pero) kung sabihin naman nila (Congress) na we just have to bite the bullet, wala naman ako magawa kung ‘yun ang decision nila,” he added.

The President made the speech after several senators called for the suspension of the law, particularly the provision that imposes excise tax on fuel, citing an increase in the prices of goods.

The Department of Finance, however, has rejected the option, saying the law would benefit Filipinos in general.

As it is, the law allows Filipino taxpayers to enjoy income tax cuts, while raising excise taxes on fuel, sugar-sweetened beverages, among others.

The DOF added the effect of TRAIN on the prices of goods was not as felt.