Manila, Philippines — Public sentiment toward tax reduction is gaining strong momentum amid declining trust in government institutions, with concerns largely anchored on perceived gaps in transparency and accountability.
According to PAHAYAG Publicus Asia INC. 88% support calls to reduce, postpone, or abolish certain taxes, reflecting widespread fiscal dissatisfaction and frustration over governance issues.
Equally strong public backing is observed for a Supreme Court petition seeking the disclosure of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee report on alleged flood control anomalies.
PAHAYAG also said the broader concern over the lack of transparency in ongoing investigations into alleged flood control program anomalies, which is shared by 84% of voters.
Meanwhile, 81% of respondents support the proposal to ban political dynasties up to the second degree of consanguinity, including grandparents, grandchildren, siblings, and half-siblings, indicating a strong public appetite for political reform measures aimed at reducing entrenched political control.
In addition, 5 in 10 voters (50%) support the abolition of the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) by March 31, 2026, citing perceived deficiencies in transparency and accountability in its operations.
Overall, the findings reiterate that calls for tax relief are closely intertwined with broader demands for governance reform, particularly in relation to transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption measures.