Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s proposed tax reform package and amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) are the result of careful study and consultations, Malaca±ang said Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the President does not announce major policy initiatives, particularly in his State of the Nation Address (SONA), without consulting relevant officials and studying implications. Castro emphasized that the President thoroughly examines everything he declares.

Castro mentioned that the administration's economic team would discuss details of the proposed measures, including their fiscal impact and funding sources. When questioned about whether Marcos would certify the tax reform measures as urgent, Castro explained that the proposed bills would first undergo review once transmitted to the President.

The President announced the proposed tax reform package and EPIRA amendments during his fifth SONA on Monday. These proposals are part of the administration's efforts to strengthen the economy, improve revenue generation, and enhance the country's energy sector. During his penultimate SONA, Marcos called for the amendment of EPIRA to remove the system loss charges in electricity bills and the corresponding value-added tax, emphasizing that these charges should not be the consumers' responsibility.