The Philippines and Singapore have just concluded the negotiations for its updated tax treaty, paving the way for a modernized tax framework governing cross-border economic activities between the two countries.
The modernization will provide clearer and more predictable tax rules for cross-border income, strengthen cooperation between tax authorities, and ensure fair taxation between the two countries.
“The Philippines is committed to strengthening tax cooperation across the region. The renegotiation of the DTA will help modernize our tax framework to support investment and economic growth while protecting our legitimate taxing rights,” Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said.
The agreement was reached during the four-day negotiations held in Singapore from September 22 to 25, 2026.
The renegotiation seeks to update the DTA, originally concluded in 1977, to reflect developments in the economies and international tax landscape of both countries.
The update is particularly important given the Philippines’ deep and growing economic ties with Singapore, an important investment and trading partner. The movement of professionals, workers, businesses, capital, technology, and services between the two countries continue to support economic activity.
For the Philippines, the renegotiation forms part of the Department of Finance’s (DOF) continuing efforts to strengthen and modernize the country’s network of tax treaties with ASEAN Member States and ensure that these agreements remain responsive to current economic realities and developments in international taxation.
The Philippines Negotiating Team was led by DOF Revenue Operations Group (ROG) Assistant Secretary Euvimil Nina R. Asuncion, with Assistant Secretary Dakila Elteen M. Napao, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Deputy Commissioner Larry M. Barcelo of the Legal Group, and Atty. Robbie M. Bañaga of the International Tax Affairs Division as members of the delegation.
Meanwhile, the Singapore Team was led by International Tax and Relations Division (ITaRD)-Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) Assistant Commissioner Angela Ang, with ITaRD Tax Director Gordon Cheong, ITaRD Group Tax Specialist Wee Ling Chew, and ITaRD Senior Tax Specialist Rebecca Ng.
Senate concurrence of PH-Cambodia DTA
Meanwhile, the DOF welcomed the Senate’s concurrence in the Philippines-Cambodia DTA, which was signed in February 2025. This brings the Philippines-Cambodia DTA closer towards entry into force.
Once in force, the agreement will set clear tax rules between the two countries, prevent double taxation, and strengthen cooperation against tax evasion and avoidance.
It will also provide a clearer and more predictable tax framework to support bilateral trade and investment and advance the Philippines’ efforts to deepen tax cooperation within ASEAN.
