The Department of Trade and Industry has highlighted the pivotal role of the newly passed CREATE MORE law in revitalizing the Philippines’ manufacturing sector through enhanced tax incentives and stronger private-public collaboration.
During a high-level industry forum held March 28, DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the law will not only support foreign and local investors, but also uplift Filipino workers and strengthen domestic industries.
“We believe that a strong manufacturing sector is non-negotiable for national development,” Roque said.
“It drives exports, builds supply chains, and uplifts communities,” she added.
The CREATE MORE law, officially known as the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy, expands on the 2021 CREATE Act by enhancing fiscal support for strategic investments.
It introduces improved deductions, value-added tax (VAT) zero-rating on select activities, and targeted support for key industries, including advanced manufacturing, green technology, and digital infrastructure.
“These measures empower businesses to expand operations, modernize facilities, and invest in their workforce, technological advancement, and long-term growth,” Roque said.
She urged the private sector to collaborate actively with the Board of Investments and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority to take full advantage of the new incentives.
“To our private sector partners: you are not merely stakeholders; you are co-architects of our industrial future,” Roque said.
The law supports reinvestment initiatives such as automation, capacity upgrades, supply chain localization, and export expansion, all aimed at making Philippine-made products more globally competitive.
Roque also emphasized the integration of the CREATE MORE law with the DTI’s Tatak Pinoy strategy, which promotes quality, innovation, and sustainability in Filipino manufacturing.
“Through Tatak Pinoy, we are raising the standards of Philippine-made goods—making them globally competitive, proudly Filipino, and future-ready,” she said.
The forum was attended by key industry stakeholders, including Special Assistant to the President Frederick Go, SGV Chairman Wilson Tan, and representatives from the Philippine Manufacturing Team and various sectoral associations.
Dr. Rafaelita Aldaba, DTI undersecretary for competitiveness and innovation, stressed the importance of building resilient industrial ecosystems that can weather economic shocks and supply disruptions.
Industry leaders praised the government’s initiative, calling for continued dialogue to address policy gaps, improve implementation, and ensure fair access to incentives for businesses of all sizes.
In line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” governance vision, the CREATE MORE law signals a shift from transactional policymaking to inclusive industrial transformation.
Roque concluded the event by reaffirming DTI’s commitment to building partnerships that support job creation, innovation, and long-term economic growth.
