BIR ANNOUNCES VAT EXEMPTION FOR MORE THAN 2,200 MEDICINES

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said more than 2,200 medicines are now exempt from value-added tax (VAT) following the release of an updated list of 2,277 VAT-free medicines.

The expanded list covers treatments for cancer, hypertension, diabetes, mental illness, high cholesterol, kidney disease and tuberculosis.

The BIR said the move supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to make essential medicines more affordable and improve access to healthcare.

Officials said the VAT exemption is expected to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses, particularly for patients with chronic and life-threatening illnesses.

The updated list was issued under the provisions of the TRAIN Law and the CREATE Act.

Source: PhilNews24 | August 6, 2026