MANILA, Philippines—Neophyte Senator Imee Marcos wants the country’s tax laws amended to make them “truly responsive” to the challenge of poverty reduction. ADVERTISEMENTAmong the amendments Marcos is pushing is the VAT exemption of all medicines and the appropriating of VAT proceeds for food vouchers and welfare programs. “Other items earmarked for funding from VAT proceeds are public schools, indigent insurance, environmental conservation, and agricultural modernization,” she said. The senator, likewise, called for a congressional inquiry into the national poverty situation by reviewing poverty data and assessing existing poverty programs, which was included in her’ first 10 Senate bills or resolutions. (Editor: Jonathan P. Vicente)RELATED STORIES:Imee Marcos pushes for release of LGU’s 40% share of national taxesADVERTISEMENTRead NextLATEST STORIESMOST READ

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer July 05, 2019 06:22 UTC