The Philippine Tax Academy–Internal Revenue Institute (PTA–IRI), in collaboration with the Senate Tax Study and Research Office (STSRO), successfully conducted a specialized one-day training course on May 8, 2025, focused on taxation, fiscal policy, and public finance. The session marked the launch of an institutional training partnership aimed at strengthening the technical capacity of STSRO personnel and supporting evidence-based policymaking in the legislature.
The program featured key presentations from experts across the tax and finance ecosystem, including Atty. Raymund Ipio and Atty. Arjhay Uy of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (Basic Tax Administration), Vice Chancellor Ma. Teresa S. Habitan of the Local Government Finance Institute (Basics in Taxation and Fiscal Policy), Atty. Lourdes Mangaoang of the Bureau of Customs (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), and IRI Chancellor Ma. Pamela P. Quizon (Fiscal Decentralization and Local Finance).
With 21 participants composed of legislative staff, technical officers, and researchers from the STSRO, the training blended foundational theory with real-world insights. PTA Chancellor Quizon formally introduced the PTA programs, while IRI Training Specialist Mr. Rovan Lopez facilitated the day’s flow. The training also included focused breakout sessions and interactive exchanges tailored to the STSRO’s unique policy and legislative context.
Participants recommended longer and more modular courses in the future, leading to the proposed development of a full course pack on “Fundamentals of Fiscal Legislation,” targeted to legislative staff across both houses of Congress. The training concludes with strong momentum for expanded collaboration between STSRO and PTA.
