ELEVEN business groups who are members of the Partnership with Multi-Sectoral Group (PMSG) said Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Martin Mendoza’s leadership comes at a ‘critical time’ for sustaining the country’s economic momentum.
‘Commissioner Mendoza brings with him a distinguished record of public service, marked by extensive experience in tax administration, fiscal oversight, and organizational leadership,’ PMSG said in a statement on Monday.
The multisectoral group said the newly-appointed BIR chief’s expertise ‘comes at a critical time for sustaining the country’s economic momentum, and we look forward to his programs toward a more efficient, transparent, and trusted BIR.’
The PMSG is a platform established under a Memorandum of Agreement with the BIR.
The members of the PMSG are: Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation, Association of Certified Public Accountants In Commerce and Industry, Association Of Certified Public Accountants In Public Practice, Federation Of Filipino Chinese Chambers Of Commerce And Industry, Inc., Financial Executives Institute Of The Philippines, Joint Foreign Chambers Of The Philippines, Makati Business Club (MBC), Management Association Of The Philippines (MAP), Philippine Chamber Of Commerce And Industry (PCCI), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and Tax Management Association of the Philippines (TMAP).
‘PMSG believes that a strong, modern, and responsive BIR is vital to a stable and competitive business environment,’ the 11 business groups noted.
‘We look forward to continuing this partnership with Commissioner Mendoza at the helm, and deepen structured dialogue, align policies, and accelerate digital transformation,’ added the PMSG.
The business groups expressed confidence that under Mendoza’s leadership, the BIR will further simplify compliance, strengthen taxpayer education, and promote voluntary compliance, ‘ultimately’ supporting ease of doing business.
In a separate statement, six business groups-the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX), Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), Makati Business Club (MBC), Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Philippine Finance Association (PFA)-underscored that the Philippine business community remains ‘strongly committed’ to supporting a competitive, resilient, and inclusive economy.
These business groups noted that while the current political turmoil raises ‘understandable’ concerns, ‘We stress that the country’s long-term fundamentals remain strong; anchored by a well-regulated financial system, a stable banking sector, and companies that continue to invest and believe in the Philippines.’
The six business groups emphasized that ‘the institutions that safeguard our markets continue to operate independently and rigorously.’
They noted that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Securities and Exchange Commission uphold regulatory frameworks aligned with global standards, ensuring ‘market integrity,’ prudent risk management, and strong investor protections.’
These business groups continued to believe that private sector investment has stayed strong.
‘Over the last 10 years, gross fixed capital formation in the Philippines has consistently ranged between 22 percent and 27 percent of GDP, with total investment surpassing P6 trillion in 2024,’ the business groups said.
This ongoing level of capital spending, they pointed out, mainly driven by business growth, clearly indicates that Philippine companies continue to build capacity, expand operations, and invest in the country’s long-term prospects.
‘We also recognize that investor confidence is influenced not only by economic fundamentals but also by governance. We therefore urge public institutions to ensure policy stability, uphold the rule of law, and address corruption quickly and decisively,’ the six business groups noted.
‘Clear guidance, consistent enforcement, and transparent decision-making are crucial to maintaining growth momentum and gaining the trust of both domestic and foreign investors,’ they also noted.
‘As business organizations, we affirm our commitment to responsible leadership, ethical practices, and constructive engagement with government. We will continue investing, creating jobs, expanding industries, and strengthening our economy’s productive capacity,’ they said.
In a time of increased uncertainty, the business groups underscored that their message is clear: ‘the private sector remains united in its belief in the Philippines’ long-term potential.’