September 2008 Bar Exams Result

April 3rd, 2009

(September 2008) Philippine Bar Exam Result

Philippine Bar Exam Trivia: Passing rate in recent Phillipine Bar Exams. Will this year be higher?

Below is the passing rate in the Philippine Bar Exam for the last 8 years…

* 2007 – 22.91% (1,289 passers of 5,626 examinees)
* 2006 – 30.60% (1,893 of 6,187)
* 2005 – 27.22% (1,526 of 5,607)
* 2004 – 31.61% (1,659 of 5,249)
* 2003 – 20.71% (1,108 of 5,349)
* 2002 – 19.68% (917 of 4,659)
* 2001 – 32.89% (1,266 of 3,849)
* 2000 - 20.84% (979 of 6,187)

The bar exam results for the Sept. 2008 bar was supposed to be released by mid of March and latest buzz is that it will be released today (April 1, 2009; April Fool’s Day).

Im sure that most aspiring lawyers who took the recent bar exam are now having butterflies in their stomach and are all excited (anxious?) for the release of the result.  Rest assured, i’ll keep you guys posted once the list is out.  Good luck to everyone!

Add comment April 1st, 2009

REVENUE REGULATION 13-98

Implementing Republic Act No. 8424

“An Act Amending the National Internal Revenue Code, as amended” Specifically Section 34 (H) Relative to the Deductibility of Contributions or Gifts Actually Paid or Made to Accredited Donee Institutions in Computing Taxable Income.

SECTION. 1. Definition of Terms

For purposes of these Regulations, the terms herein enumerated shall have the following meanings:

1. “Non-stock, non-profit corporation or organization” – shall refer to a corporation or association/organization referred to under Section 30 (E) and (G) of the Tax Code created or organized under Philippine laws exclusively for one or more of the following purposes:

1. religious;
2. charitable;
3. scientific;
4. athletic;
5. cultural;
6. rehabilitation of veterans; and
7. social welfare

2. “Non-government Organization (NGO)” – shall refer to a non-stock, non-profit domestic corporation or organization as defined under Section 34 (H)(2)(c) of the Tax Code organized and operated exclusively for scientific, research, educational, character-building and youth and sports development, health, social welfare, cultural or charitable purposes, or a combination thereof, no part of the net income of which inures to the benefit of any private individual.

1. Which, not later than the fifteenth (15th) day of the third month after the close of the NGO’s taxable year in which contributions are received, makes utilization directly for the active conduct of the activities constituting the purpose or function for which it is organized and operated, unless an extended period is granted by the Secretary of Finance, upon recommendation of the Commissioner;
2. The level of administrative expenses of which shall, on an annual basis, not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the total expenses for the taxable year; and
3. The assets of which, in the event of dissolution, would be distributed to another accredited NGO organized for similar purpose or purposes, or to the State for public purpose, or purposes, or to the state for public purpose, or would be distributed by a competent court of justice to another accredited NGO to be used in such manner as in the judgment of said court shall best accomplish the general purpose for which the dissolved organization was organized.

3. “Utilization” by an accredited NGO – shall refer to:

1. Any amount in cash or in kind, including administrative expenses, paid or utilized by an accredited NGO to accomplish one or more purposes for which it was created or organized; or
2. Any amount paid to acquire an asset used, or held for use, directly in carrying out one or more purposes for which the accredited NGO was created or organized; or
3. Any amount set aside for a specific project which comes within one or more purpose or purposes for which the accredited NGO was created, but only if at the time such amount is set aside, the accredited NGO has established to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue that the amount will be utilized for a specific project within a period not to exceed five (5) years, and the project is the one which can be better accomplished by setting aside such amount than by immediate payments of funds: Provided, That, the utilization requirements prescribed under Sec. 5 of these Regulations shall be complied with; or
4. Any amount in cash or in kind invested in any activity related to the purpose for which it was created or organized.
5. Any amount in cash or in kind invested in capital sustaining and generating activities, such as but not limited to, endowment funds, trust funds, money market placements, shares of stock and similar instruments: Provided, That, any income derived from these investments shall be exclusively used in activities directly related to one or more purposes for which the accredited NGO was created or organized.

4. “Accrediting Entity” – shall refer to a non-stock, non-profit organization composed of NGO networks, duly designated by the Secretary of Finance to establish and operationalize a system of accreditation to determine the qualification of non-stock, non-profit corporations or organizations and NGOs for accreditation as qualified-donee institutions. The Secretary of Finance and the Commissioner of Internal Revenue shall oversee, monitor and coordinate with the Accrediting Entity to ensure that the provisions of these Regulations are complied with. In this connection, the Secretary of Finance or the Commissioner of Internal Revenue or their duly authorized representative shall sit as ex officio member of the Board of Trustees of the Accrediting entity with the right to vote. The Secretary of Finance may also designate an official of a concerned government agency, e.g. Department of Science and Technology, to assist the Board of Trustees in the accreditation of foundations.

The Secretary of Finance shall designate an entity as an Accrediting Entity provided it has a countrywide membership composed of (a) NGOs which belong to the sector that the Private Accrediting Entity intends to certify; (b) NGOs which have been in existence for at least five (5) years; and (c) NGOs not more than 50% of the members of which belong to other existing NGOs or Private Accrediting Agencies.

The Philippine Council for NGO Certification, Inc. (PCNC), a non-stock, non-profit corporation which was established by several NGO networks (e.g., Caucus of Development NGO Networks (CODE-NGO); Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP); Association of Foundations (AF); League of Corporate Foundations (LCF); Bishops-Businessmen’s Conference for Human Development (BBC); and the National Council for Social Development Foundation (NCSD)), has been duly designated by the Secretary of Finance as an Accrediting Entity pursuant to Memorandum of Agreement dated January 29, 1998 executed by and between the Secretary of Finance and PCNC’s Interim Chairman.

5. “Religious purpose” – shall refer to the promotion, propagation and accomplishment of any form of religion, creed or religious belief recognized by the Government of the Republic of the Philippines.

6. “Charitable activity” – shall refer to extending relief to the poor, distressed and underprivileged and shall include fighting against juvenile delinquency and community deterioration.

7. “Scientific and research purpose” – shall refer to undertaking or assisting in pure or basic, applied and scientific research in the field of agriculture, forestry, fisheries, industry, engineering, energy development, food and nutrition, medicine, environment and biological, physical and natural sciences for the public interest.

1. Basic research shall refer to an experimental or theoretical work undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge of the underlying foundations of phenomena and observable facts without any particular application or use in view. It analyzes properties, structures or relationships with a view to formulating and testing hypothesis, theories or laws. The results of basic research are not generally sold but are usually published in scientific journals or circulars to interested colleagues.
2. Applied research shall refer to an original investigation undertaken in order to acquire new knowledge. It is directed primarily towards a specific practical aim or objective. It is undertaken either to determine possible uses for the findings of basic research or to determine new methods or ways of achieving some specific and predetermined objectives. It involves the consideration of the available knowledge and its extension in order to solve particular problems. Applied research develops ideas into operational form.
3. Scientific research will be regarded as carried on for public interest if the results of such research are made available to the public on a non-discriminatory basis; or if such research is performed for the Government of the Philippines or any of its agencies or political subdivisions; or if such research is directed to benefit the public.

8. “Character building and youth and sports development (or athletic) purposes” – shall refer to and include conducting basic and applied research on youth development, initiating and establishing youth organizations to promote and develop youth activities, including the establishment of summer camps or centers for leadership training, conducting a program on physical fitness and amateur sports development for the country; developing or maintaining recreational facilities, playgrounds and sports centers; and conducting training programs for the development of youth and athletes for national and international competitions.

9. “Cultural activity” – shall refer to and include undertaking and/or assisting in research activities on all aspects of history, social system, customs and traditions; developing, enriching and preserving Filipino arts and culture; developing and promoting the visual and performing arts; and participating in vigorous implementation of bilingual policy through translation and wider use of technical, scientific and creative publications, development of an adaptive technical dictionary and use of Filipino as the medium of instruction.

10. “Educational activity” – shall refer to and include the granting of scholarships to deserving students and professional chairs for the enhancement of professional courses, and instructing or training of individuals either through formal and informal methods, viz:

1. Formal method of instruction refers to the institutionalized, chronologically graded and hierarchically structured educational system at all levels of education;
2. Non-formal method of instruction refers to any deliberately organized, systematic educational activity carried on outside the framework of the formal system to provide selected types of learning to particular subgroups of the population, particularly out-of-school youths and adults, for the purpose of communicating ideas, developing skills, changing attitudes or modifying behavior to improve their character and to provide them with tools necessary for the achievement of a higher standard of living. For the purpose of this section, a certification from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is required for the accreditation of the non-formal educational program which is implemented or carried out by a non-stock, non-profit corporation, organization or an NGO.

It also includes upgrading of existing facilities to support the conduct of the above activities.

11. “Rehabilitation of veterans” – shall include services extended to Philippine veterans and members of their families because of financial difficulties and attendant problems; and services extended to disabled veterans towards productive life.

12. “Social welfare purposes” – shall refer to and include

1. undertaking and/or assisting in the amelioration of the living conditions of distressed citizens particularly those who are handicapped by reasons of poverty, youth, physical and mental disability, illness, old age, and natural disasters, including assistance to cultural minorities;
2. pursuing a program for the protection and development of children and youth, such as providing services for drop-outs, pre-school children of low-income working mothers, and physically handicapped children;
3. providing for the rehabilitation of the youth and disabled adults, released prisoners, drug addicts, alcoholics, mentally retarded, hansenites and similar cases; and
4. providing for services to squatter families and to displaced workers

13. “Health purposes” – shall refer to include the pursuit of any of the following:

1. control, prevention and treatment of communicable and degenerative diseases, accidents and other health disabilities;
2. family planning program designed to indicate knowledge and understanding of population, human growth and development of family life;
3. environment sanitation, such as, public sewerage system and sanitary toilets; and
4. nutrition, which aims to reduce the prevalence of malnutrition and increase the energy and protein intake among households.

SECTION 2. Accreditation of non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs by the Accrediting Entity

1. The Accrediting Entity shall examine, evaluate and accredit non-stock, non-profit corporations and NGOs as a pre-requisite for their registration with the BIR as qualified-donee institutions under Section 34 (H)(1) and (2)(c) of the Tax Code.

2. Newly-organized and existing non-stock, non-profit corporations and NGOs shall apply with the Accrediting Entity for accreditation and submit to a process of examination and evaluation. The application for accreditation shall be accompanied by the following documents:

1. Articles of Incorporation and By-laws;
2. Certificate of Registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission;
3. Affidavit of Modus Operandi showing:
1. the character of the organization;
2. the purpose for which it is organized;
3. the lists of projects/activities for the past two (2) years, or list of proposed projects/activities for the first two (2) years of operations for newly-organized non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs;
4. the source of income and the utilization thereof, or target fund sources for newly-organized non-stock, non-profit corporations/ NGOs; and
5. other facts relating to their operations which are relevant to their qualification as donee institutions;

4. Duly audited financial statements for the past two (2) years showing the assets, liabilities, receipts and disbursements of existing organizations, or financial projections for the first two (2) years for newly-organized non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs.

3. The Accrediting Entity shall evaluate and accredit non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs using the following major criteria:

1. Mission and Goals

The mission and goals of the non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO should justify its existence. Statements of mission and goals shall serve as guideposts for its planning and operations and a framework for decision-making.

2. Resources

This criterion focuses on the adequacy of the resources and the effectiveness of the structure and systems of the non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO. Areas that should be evaluated under this criterion include the organization structure, human, financial and physical resources. Evaluation shall take into account the names, positions and qualifications of the individuals or committee members who manage and make decisions for the non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO, its source of funds and distribution of financial resources, and the following exhibits at the time of examination, among others:

1. Minutes of the Board meetings;
2. Table of organization;
3. Policy Manual, if any;
4. Personnel Manual, if any;
5. Budget for the past two (2) years, or proposed projects for the first two (2) years of operations for newly-organized non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs; and
6. Audited financial statements for the past two years for existing non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs.

3. Program Implementation and Evaluation

The non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO must demonstrate that it is effectively using its resources to accomplish the purposes for which it was created. There should be clearly defined policies, priorities and guidelines for implementing the various programs and projects. Evaluation shall consider programs and projects implemented within the last two years; description of how its programs/projects/services are managed; how the following procedures are carried out; record keeping, monitoring, evaluating and contingency planning; programs/projects vis-à-vis the needs and priorities of its beneficiaries; the present documentation or results of evaluation and provisions for adequate training, people participation, development of leaders and eventual self-sufficiency.

4. Planning for the Future

The non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO must provide evidence that it has the capability to plan, implement and monitor its programs and projects. Evaluation shall provide evidence that the non-profit corporation/NGO has mechanisms for planning, implementing and monitoring its programs and projects and for ensuring the continuity of programs/projects even when external funding has ceased. Evaluation shall also rely on the presentation of the following exhibits at the time of visit:

1. Organizational plan
2. Monitoring and evaluation tools

4. The Secretary of Finance, upon the recommendation of the Board of Trustees of the Accrediting Entity can waive the submission of duly audited financial statements for newly-organized non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs which have been organized to carry out programs of national significance, e.g. foundation to build the National Museum. They shall be eligible to apply for a three (3) -year probationary accreditation and registration as qualified donee institutions with the Accrediting Entity.

5. Existing non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs which have qualified as donee institutions under BIR-NEDA Regulations 1-81, as amended, shall have three (3) years beginning the effectivity of these rules and regulations within which to secure a Certificate of Accreditation from the Accrediting Entity . Failure by the said non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs to secure accreditation within the three-year period shall be a ground for the cancellation by the BIR of their Certificates of Registration as qualified-donee institutions: Provided, however, That donations and contributions to the said non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs during the three-year period shall still be allowed as deductible expense on the part of the donors subject to the provisions of Sec. 4 of these Regulations: Provided, further, That after the three-year period, only donations and contributions to non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs which have been accredited under these Regulations, shall be allowed as deductible expense on the part of the donors.

6. The Accrediting Entity shall issue a Certificate of Accreditation to a non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO upon determination that it meets the criteria for accreditation; Provided, that the Certificate of Accreditation shall be valid for a maximum period of five (5) years for existing non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs and three (3) years for newly-organized non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs.

7. The Accrediting Entity shall deny the application of any non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO which does not meet the criteria for accreditation. The Private Accrediting Entity shall notify the non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO of the denial of the application, the reasons therefor, and the evaluators’ recommendation in order that the non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO may meet the criteria for accreditation. A non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO whose application for accreditation has been denied by the Private Accrediting Entity shall have one (1) year within which to implement the evaluator’s recommendations. After the one-year implementation period, the non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO may re-apply for accreditation.

8. The Secretary of Finance and the Commissioner of Internal Revenue shall oversee, monitor and coordinate with the Accrediting Entity to ensure that the provisions of these Regulations are complied with.

SECTION 3. Donations to Accredited Non-stock, Non-profit Corporations/NGOs

Donations to accredited non-stock, non-profit corporations/ NGOs shall be entitled to the following benefits:

1. Limited Deductibility – Donations, contributions or gifts actually paid or made within the taxable year to accredited non-stock, non-profit corporations shall be allowed limited deductibility in an amount not in excess of ten percent (10%) for an individual donor, and five percent (5%) for a corporate donor, of the donor’s income derived from trade, business or profession as computed without the benefit of this deduction.

2. Full Deductibility – Donations, contributions or gifts actually paid or made within the taxable year to accredited NGOs shall be allowed full deductibility, subject to the following conditions:

1. The accredited NGO shall make utilization directly for the active conduct of the activities constituting the purpose or function for which it is organized and operated, not later than the fifteenth (15th) day of the third month after the close of the accredited NGOs taxable year in which contributions are received, unless an extended period is granted by the Secretary of Finance, upon recommendation of the Commissioner.

For this purpose, the term “utilization” shall have the meaning as defined under Sec. 1(c) of these Regulations.

2. The level of administrative expenses of the accredited NGO, shall, on an annual basis, not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the total expenses for the taxable year;

3. In the event of dissolution, the assets of the accredited NGO, would be distributed to another accredited NGO organized for similar purpose or purposes, or to the State for public purpose, or purposes, or to the state for public purpose, or would be distributed by a competent court of justice to another accredited NGO to be used in such manner as in the judgment of said court shall best accomplished the general purpose for which the dissolved organization was organized.

4. The amount of any charitable contribution of property other than money shall be based on the acquisition cost of said property.

5. All the members of the Board of Trustees of the non-stock, non-profit corporation, organization or NGO do not receive compensation or remuneration for their service to the aforementioned organization.

3. Exemption from Donor’s Tax – Donations and gifts made in favor of accredited non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs shall be exempt from the donor’s tax: Provided, however, That not more than thirty percent (30%) of the said donations and gifts for the taxable year shall be used by such accredited non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs institutions qualified-donee institution for administration purposes pursuant to the provisions of Section 101 (A)(3) and (B)(2) of the Tax Code.

SECTION 4. Utilization Requirements

Amounts set aside or to be set aside for a specific project must have the prior approval of the Commissioner in writing: Provided, however, That a certification issued by the Accrediting Entity that the accredited NGO’s specific project is one which can be better accomplished by setting aside the funds, shall be sufficient basis for the Commissioner to grant his/her approval.

The application for the Commissioner’s prior approval must contain the following:

1. the nature and purpose of the specific project and the amount programmed therefor;

2. a detailed description of the project, including estimated costs, sources of any future funds expected to be used for completion of the project, and the location or locations (general or specific) of any physical facility to be acquired or constructed as part of the project; and

3. a statement by an authorized official of the organization that the amount to be set aside will actually be disbursed for the specific project within five (5) years from the date of approval by the Commissioner, unless the nature of the project is such that the five-year period is impracticable.

Amounts set aside shall be evidenced by book entries and documents showing evidence of deposits or investments, including investment of the funds so set aside, or other documents that the Commissioner may require.

SECTION 5. Certificate of Donations

All accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO are required to issue a certificate of donation in such form as prescribed by the BIR, on every donation or gift they receive. Such certificate shall be accomplished by the said accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO in triplicate and distributed within thirty (30) days after the receipt of the donation, as follows:

1. Original copy – Donor
2. Duplicate copy – BIR
3. Triplicate copy – Donee

SECTION 6. Notice of Donations

The donor, on the other hand, should give a notice for every donation worth over One Million pesos (P 1,000,000) to the Revenue District Officer where his place of business is located within thirty (30) days after the receipt of the Certificate of Donation attaching to the said notice the copy of the Certificate of Donation issued to him by the accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO.

SECTION 7. Date and Place of Filing Returns

1. Time of Filing – Claims for limited or full deductibility of donations and contributions by the donors shall be filed by the donors at the time of filing their income tax returns.

On the other hand, the accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/ NGO shall file its annual information return not later than the fifteenth (15th) day of the fourth month after the close of its taxable year in order to maintain its status as an accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO.

2. Place of Filing – The income tax return and/or the annual information return of the donor or of the accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO shall be filed in the Revenue District Office where the place of business of the donor or the donee, as the case may be, is located.

SECTION 8. Substantiation Requirements

1. For Donors – Donors claiming donations and contributions to accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO as deductions from their taxable business income should submit evidences or proofs to the BIR by showing the Certificate/s of Donation and indicating therein the following:

1. Actual receipt by the accredited non-stock, non profit corporation/ NGO of the donation or contribution and the date of receipt thereof; and
2. The amount of the charitable donation or contribution, if in cash; if property, whether real or personal, the acquisition cost of the said property.

On the other hand, donors claiming exemption from donor’s tax on their donations and contributions to accredited non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs should submit evidences or proofs showing the amount of donation, if in cash; if real property, the zonal value thereof at the time of donation; and if personal property, the acquisition cost thereof, but if said personal property had already been used at the time of donation, the depreciated or book value thereof.

2. For Accredited Non-stock, Non-profit Corporations/ NGOs – Accredited non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs shall, upon filing their income tax returns/annual information returns, furnish the Revenue District Officer of the place where the said accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/ NGO is located, the following:

1. A list of the donations and income received during the year, showing the name and address of the donors; the sources of income; the amount or market value of each donation and items of income and the disposition thereof;

2. A list of the activities and/or projects undertaken by the institution and the cost of each undertaking indicating in particular where and how the donations has been utilized;

3. A list of projects, their corresponding costs; the amount “set aside” and the status of funds balances at the end of the year;

4. A declaration that the utilization requirements under Sections 2(c) and 8 of these Regulations have been sufficiently complied with;

5. A declaration that no part of the net income of the accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO inures to the benefit of any private stockholder or individual; and

6. A declaration of the status of project implementation.

SECTION 9. Monitoring and Verification of Annual Information Return

Pursuant to the last paragraph of Section 235 of the Tax Code, any provision of existing general or special law to the contrary notwithstanding, the books of accounts and other pertinent records, as well as the operations, of accredited non-stock, non-profit corporations/NGOs may be examined by the BIR annually for purposes of ascertaining compliance with the conditions under which they have been granted tax exemptions or tax incentives, and their tax liability, if any. Compliance by the accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO with the conditions set forth in the grant of incentives under Sec. 4 of these Regulations shall be strictly monitored to ascertain whether or not they have met the requirements for maintaining the status as an accredited qualified-donee institution.

SECTION 10. Prohibited Transactions

Any accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO enjoying the benefits provided for under Sec. 4 of these Regulations is prohibited from undertaking any of the following transactions:

1. Lending any part of its income or property without adequate security and/or a reasonable rate of interest unless the institution has a formal micro-credit or micro-finance program as approved by their Board of Trustees;

2. Purchasing any security and/or property for more than an adequate consideration in money or money’s worth;

3. Selling any part of the security or other property for less than adequate consideration in money or money’s worth;

4. Diverting its income or transferring its property by way of lease or sale to any member of its Board of Trustees, founder/s or principal officers or any member of their families or to any corporation controlled directly or indirectly by the aforesaid individuals or their families in accordance with the attribution of stock ownership under Section 73 (A) and (B) of the Tax Code;

5. Using any part of its property, income or seed capital for any purpose other than that for which the corporation was created or organized; or

6. Engaging in any activity which is contrary to law, public order or public policy.

SECTION 11. Withdrawal of Certificate of Accreditation and Revocation of the Certificate of Registration

1. The Accrediting Entity shall have the authority to withdraw the Certificate of Accreditation which it issued to a non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO upon a determination that the latter no longer meets the criteria for accreditation under Sec. 2 (c) of these Regulations. The Private Accrediting Entity concerned shall inform the Legal Service of the National Office or the concerned division of the Regional Offices of the withdrawal of the Certificate of Accreditation and recommend to the BIR the revocation of the Certificate of Registration of the non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO concerned.

2. The Accrediting Entity which issued the Certificate of Accreditation shall report to the Legal Service of the National Office or to the concerned division of the Regional Offices any violation of any provision of these Regulations by the accredited non-stock, non-profit corporation/NGO. Violation of any provision of these Regulations shall constitute a ground for the withdrawal by the Private Accrediting Entity concerned of the Certificate of Accreditation and the revocation by the BIR of the Certificate of Registration.

3. Any donor found to have participated in or consented to the violation of these Regulations shall be deprived of the benefits provided under Sec. 4 of these Regulations implementing Sections 34 (H)(1), (2)(c) and 101(A)(3), (B)(2) of the Tax Code. Thus, the limited or full deductibility of donations and contributions shall be disallowed and the corresponding donor’s tax due on the donation, including statutory increments or penalties thereto provided in the Tax Code, shall be assessed and collected. The said penalties shall be in addition to any administrative or criminal penalty provided for by laws or regulations.

SECTION 12. Repealing Clause

All internal revenue issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof, which are contrary to or inconsistent with these Regulations are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

SECTION 13. Effectivity

These Regulations shall take effect fifteen (15) days after publication in the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.

Add comment March 25th, 2009

Revenue Regulation 3-98

REVENUE REGULATIONS NO. 3-98

(May 21, 1998)

FRINGE BENEFITS TAX

These regulations govern the collection at source of the tax on fringe benefits which have been furnished, granted or paid by the employer beginning January 1, 1998.

A final withholding tax called the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) is imposed on the grossed-up monetary value of fringe benefit furnished, granted or paid by an employer to an employee who is holding a managerial or supervisory position. The FBT will be imposed regardless of whether such employer is an individual, professional partnership or a corporation, or that the corporation is taxable or not, or the employer is the Philippine government or one of its instrumentalities.

Only fringe benefits given or furnished to managerial or supervisory employees are subject to FBT. For this purpose, the term “managerial employees” refers to those who are vested with powers or prerogatives to lay down and execute management policies and/or to hire, transfer, suspend, lay-off, recall, discharge, assign or discipline employees. “Supervisory employees” are those who effectively recommend such managerial actions if the exercise of such authority is not merely routinary or clerical in nature but requires the use of independent judgment. “Rank and file employees” means all employees who are holding neither managerial nor supervisory position.

Fringe benefits which have been paid prior to January 1, 1998 shall not be subject to FBT.

FBT rates

In general, the fringe benefit tax rate is 34% in 1998, 33% in 1999 and 32% in year 2000 and thereafter. The grossed-up monetary value of the fringe benefit is determined by dividing the monetary value of the fringe benefit by 66% in 1998; 67% in 1999 and 68% beginning January 1, 2000.

Fringe benefits given to certain managerial and supervisory employees are taxed at preferential rates, viz:

Fringe benefits received by employees in special economic zones are also covered by these regulations. The FBT rate to be applied would be governed by the same rules discussed above. Thus, if the fringe benefit is given to employees of a representative office located in the zone, the FBT rate is 15%. On the other hand, if the company providing the benefits is a regular company, the normal rate of FBT will apply.

Fringe benefits refer to goods, services or other benefits furnished or granted by an employer in cash or in kind, in addition to basic salaries, to managerial or supervisory employees such as, but not limited to the following:

o Housing;

o Expense account;

o Vehicle of any kind;

o Household personnel, such as maid, driver and others;

o Interest on loan at less than market rate to the extent of the difference between the market rate and actual rate granted;

o Membership fees, dues and other expenses borne by the employer for the employee in social and athletic clubs or other similar organizations;

o Expenses for foreign travel;

o Holiday and vacation expenses;

o Educational assistance to the employee or his dependents; and

o Life or health insurance and other non-life insurance premiums or similar amounts in excess of what the law allows.

However, the following benefits are not covered by the FBT.

1. Fringe benefits which are authorized and exempted from income tax under the Code or under special law. Separation benefits which are given to employees who are involuntarily separated from work are not subject to FBT.

2. Contributions of the employer for the benefit of the employee to retirement, insurance and hospitalization benefit plans;

3. Benefits given to the rank and file, whether granted under a collective bargaining agreement or not;

4. De minimis benefits

5. Benefits granted to employee as required by the nature of, or necessary to the trade, business or profession of the employer

6. Benefits granted for the convenience of the employer

Although the benefit may be exempt from FBT, it may, however, still form part of the employee’s gross compensation income which is subject to income tax, which is required to be covered by the withholding tax on wages.

“De minimis” benefits refer to facilities or privileges furnished or offered by an employer to his employees that are of relatively small value and are offered or furnished by the employer merely as a means of promoting the health, goodwill, contentment or efficiency of his employees, such as the following:

o Monetized unused vacation leave credits of employees not exceeding ten (10) days during the year;

o Medical allowance for employee’s dependents not exceeding P125 per month;

o Rice subsidy of P350

o Uniform allowance

o Medical benefits

o Laundry allowance of P150 per month

o Employee achievement awards in the form of a tangible property, with an annual monetary value not exceeding ½ of the basic salary of employee;

o Christmas and major anniversary celebration for employees and their guests;

o Company picnics and sports tournaments in the Philippines exclusively participated in by employees

o Flowers, fruits or similar items given under special circumstances, e.g. illness, marriage, etc.

In addition, the following fringe benefits are also not subject to FBT because they are necessary to the business of the employer, or granted for the convenience of the employer:

o Housing privilege of military officials of the AFP located inside or near the military camps.

o A housing unit which is situated inside or at most 50 meters from the perimeter of the business premises.

o Temporary housing for an employee for 3 months or less.

o Expenses of the employee which are reimbursed by the employer if they are supported by receipts in the name of the employer and do not partake the nature of a personal expense of the employee.

o Motor vehicles used for sales, freight, delivery service and other non-personal uses

o The use of aircraft (including helicopters) owned and maintained by the employer

o Business expenses which are paid for by the employer for the foreign travel of his employees in connection with business meetings or conventions. The expenses should be supported by documents proving the actual occurrences of the meetings/conventions, or official communications from business associates

Valuation of Benefits

The computation of the fringe benefits tax would entail valuation of the benefit granted and determination of the proportion or percentage of the benefit which is subject to the FBT. In cases where the fringe benefits entail joint benefits to the employer and employee, the portion which shall be subject to the FBT and the guidelines for the valuation of fringe benefits are defined below.

In general, the valuation of fringe benefits shall be as follows:

1. If benefit is granted in money or is paid directly paid for by employer, then the value is the amount granted or paid for.

2. If the employer gave the employee a property and the title to the property is placed under his name, the fair market value of the property will be considered as the monetary value of the fringe benefit.

3. However, if the employee is only allowed to use the property, and the title to the property remains with the employer, the monetary value of the benefit is equal to the depreciation value of the property.

Certain guidelines are set for the valuation and determination of the monetary value of specific types of benefits.

1. Housing

If employer leases a residential property for the use of his employee, the value of the benefit shall be the amount of rental paid by the employer, as evidenced by the lease contract. The monetary value shall be equal to fifty percent (50%) of the value of the benefit.

If the property provided for the use of the employee belongs to his employer, the annual value of the benefit shall be equal to 5% of the market value of the land and improvement as declared in the Real Property Tax Declaration Form or zonal value thereof as determined by the BIR, whichever is higher. The monetary value of the fringe benefit shall be fifty percent (50%) of the value of the benefit.

If the employer purchases property on installment basis and allows it to be used by its employee, the annual value of the benefit shall be five percent (5%) of the acquisition cost of the property, exclusive of interest. The monetary value of fringe benefit shall be fifty percent (50%) of the value of the benefit.

If the employer purchases a residential property and transfers ownership thereof in the name of the employee, its monetary value is equal to the full amount of the acquisition cost or zonal value as determined by the BIR, whichever is higher. In case the property is sold to the employee at a price less than the acquisition cost, the difference between the fair market value or zonal value, whichever is higher, and the cost of the property to the employee will be the basis for FBT.

2. Motor Vehicle

If the employer purchases the motor vehicle in the name of the employee, the acquisition price will be the value of the benefit. The monetary value of the fringe benefit shall be the entire value of the benefit, regardless of whether the motor vehicle is used by the employee partly for his personal purpose and partly for the benefit of the employer.

If the employer pays for the car on installment basis and ownership of the car is placed in the name of the employee, the value of the benefit shall be the acquisition cost exclusive of interest, divided by five (5) years. The monetary value shall be the entire value of the benefit.

If instead of buying the car directly, the employer gave the employee money to purchase the car, whether the full amount or just a portion of the price, the cash received by the employee will be used as basis for FBT. However, the subsidy given by the employer is not subject to FBT if it was declared as part of the employee’s taxable compensation income subject to withholding tax.

If the employer owns and maintains, or leases a fleet of motor vehicles for the use of the business and employees, the value of the benefit is equal to the acquisition cost of all motor vehicles not normally used for sales, freight, delivery service and other non-personal use divided by five (5) years. The monetary value shall be fifty percent (50%) of the value of the benefit.

The use by the employee of the yacht owned or being leased by his employer is subject to FBT and the value of the benefit is measures based on the depreciation of the yacht at an estimated useful life of 20 years.

3. Foreign business travel

If employee is given a first class airplane ticket, the monetary value of the benefit is equal to 30% of the cost of the first class airplane ticket.

The full amount of the travelling expenses of the family members of the employee which are paid for by the employer is subject to FBT.

4. Expense account

In general, expenses incurred by the employee which are paid by his employer, and expenses paid for by the employee but reimbursed by his employer shall be treated as taxable benefits. However, expenditures which are not in the nature of a personal expense of the employee are not subject to FBT provided that these are supported by receipts in the name of the employer.

Personal expenses of the employee paid for or reimbursed by the employer are subject to FBT, even if the same are duly receipted in the name of the employer.

Representations and transportation allowances which are fixed in amounts and regularly received by the employee as part of their monthly compensation income will be considered as taxable compensation income.

5. Loans Extended by Employers

If the employer lends money to his employee free of interest, the interest waived which will be computed at the rate of 12% is considered as a benefit to the employee.

If the loan was given with interest but at a rate lower than 12%, the difference of the interest assumed by the employee and the rate of 12% shall be treated as taxable fringe benefit.

This rule will apply to installment payments or loans with interest rate lower than 12% starting January 1, 1998.

6. Educational support

The cost of the educational assistance to the employee which are borne by the employer shall be treated as taxable fringe benefit.

However, if the employer granted a scholarship to the employee for an education or study which is directly connected with the employer’s business, it is not subject to FBT if there is a written contract between them that the employee is under obligation to remain in the employ of the employer for a period of time that they have mutually agreed upon.

The cost of educational assistance extended to the employee’s dependents is not taxable if such assistance was provided through a competitive scheme under the scholarship program of the company.

7. Insurance

The cost of life or health insurance and other non-life insurance premiums borne by the employer for his employee shall be treated as taxable fringe benefits.

However, the cost of life or health insurance borne by the employer if made under the SSS or GSIS or similar contributions arising from the provisions of any other existing law is not taxable. Likewise, the cost of premiums borne by the employer for the group insurance of his employees is not subject to FBT.

Payment of FBT

The FBT is treated as a final income tax on the employee which is required to be withheld and paid by the employer on a calendar quarterly basis. The FBT return is required to be filed and the FBT withheld paid within 25 days from the close of the quarter when withholding was made.

Effectivity

FBT must be paid on all benefits granted starting January 1, 1998. Since the rules were released only in April, no penalty will be imposed for late payment of the fringe benefit tax for the first quarter ending March 1998 for as long as the FBT for the first quarter is paid not later than July 25, 1998.

3 comments March 24th, 2009

Are lawyers liers? Let’s see…

A small town prosecuting attorney called his first witness to the stand in a trial–a grandmotherly, elderly woman.

He approached her and asked, “Mrs. Jones, do you know me?”

She responded, “Why, yes, I do know you Mr. Williams. I’ve known you since you were a young boy. And frankly, you’ve been a big disappointment to me. You lie, you cheat on your wife, you manipulate people and talk about them behind their backs. You think you’re a rising big shot when you haven’t the brains to realize you never will amount to anything more than a two-bit paper pusher. Yes, I know you.”

The lawyer was stunned. Not knowing what else to do he pointed across the room and asked, “Mrs. Williams, do you know the defense attorney?”

She again replied, “Why, yes I do. I’ve known Mr. Bradley since he was a youngster, too. I used to baby-sit him for his parents. And he, too, has been a real disappointment to me. He’s lazy, bigoted, he has a drinking problem. The man can’t build a normal relationship with anyone and his law practice is one of the shoddiest in the entire state. Yes, I know him.”

At this point, the judge rapped the courtroom to silence and called both counselors to the bench.

In a very quiet voice, he said with menace, “If either of you asks her if she knows me, you’ll be in jail for contempt within 5 minutes!” (^_^)

Add comment November 29th, 2008

BANTAY KORTE SUPREMA

OFFICIAL STATEMENT

Seven of the 15 incumbent Supreme Court Justices, or almost majority of said collegial body, will be retiring next year. Only one person, the President, will be appointing these vacancies, and only upon the recommendation of the Judicial and Bar Council.

To assure that the fitness, integrity and competence of the High Tribunal are preserved, a diverse group comprising of representatives from various sectors has convened Bantay Korte Suprema.

Bantay Korte Suprema aims to ensure that the nomination. Evaluation, recommendation and appointment of the seven incoming Supreme Court Justices be transparent and public, not duly influenced by parochial and short-term political considerations.

Bantay Korte Suprema includes former Philippine Presidents, retired Supreme Court Justices, the legal academe, lawyers’ association, practitioners, selected legislators, chambers of commerce and media organizations.

The Supreme Court is considered the final arbiter of legal controversies. It stands reflective of the Judiciary and our entire legal system. A selection process done behind a veil casts doubts on the very credibility of the appointments, considering the peculiar situation that the current Chief Executive has the power to name almost half of the High Tribunal’s membership.

Let the nomination, evaluation, recommendation, selection and appointment be made public, so that we, the Filipino people, are assured that the subsequent Supreme Court is OUR Supreme Court, and no one else’s.

We invite you to the launching of Bantay Korte Suprema on Monday, November 17, 2008, 10:00 o’ clock in the morning at the Training Center , Ground Floor Centennial Building , Supreme Court, Padre Faura cor. Taft Avenue , Manila .

Add comment November 18th, 2008

What is Qualified Political Agency?

Under this doctrine, which recognizes the establishment of a single executive, all executive and administrative organizations are adjuncts of the Executive Department, the heads of the various executive departments are assistants and agents of the Chief Executive, and, except in cases where the Chief Executive is required by the Constitution or law to act in person or the exigencies of the situation demand that he act personally, the multifarious executive and administrative functions of the Chief Executive are performed by and through the executive departments, and the acts of the Secretaries of such departments, performed and promulgated in the regular course of business, are, unless disapproved or reprobated by the Chief Executive, presumptively the acts of the Chief Executive

Add comment November 8th, 2008

Love to eat…Learn to cook it…(Pork Siomai)

Siomai is a dimsum of Chinese origin which is loved by many Filipinos. One can order different kinds of siomai but the base is always pork. The ground meat should have some fat otherwise the cooked siomai will be too tough. Prawns or shrimps can be substituted for part of the pork if desired.

Estimated cooking time: 50 minutes

• 1 kg ground pork (suggested proportion of fat to lean meat is 1:3) or 1 kg Prawn (shrimp) peeled
• 1/3 cup chopped water chestnuts or turnips (singkamas)
• 1/3 cup chopped carrots
• 2 medium or 1 large minced onion(s)
• bunch of spring onions or leeks
• 1 egg
• 5 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 50 pcs. large or 100 pcs. small wanton or siomai wrapper
• soy sauce, calamansi (lemon or kumquats), sesame oil and chilli paste (for the sauce)

Wrapper:

• 1/4 cup water
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or corn oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Chilli Paste:

• 1/8 kilo Chillies (Siling Labuyo)
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

• Mix all the ingredients for the filling in a bowl.

• Spoon 1 tablespoon of mixture into each wrapper. Fold and seal.

• Meanwhile, boil water and brush steamer with oil.

• When the water gets to a rolling boil, arrange the siomai in the steamer and let stand for 15-20 minutes, longer for larger pieces.

• Serve with soy sauce, calamansi and sesame oil. Chilli paste is optional.

  Wrapper:

• Beat egg and mix with flour till free of lumps.

• Bring water, cooking oil and salt to a boil, then pour in flour.

• Remove from heat and beat until mixture forms a ball.

• Divide the dough into 1 1/4 -inch balls.

• Roll each ball on a floured board until paper thin. Set aside.

• Simplest version of chilli sauce would be to chop chillies well and fry them in oil, sesame or vegetable oil, never olive oil if you want it to have a Filipino taste.

  Chilli Paste:
  

  Combine chopped chillies and minced garlic then simmer for around 20 minutes or till most of the water has evaporated. Add oil, simmer and stir well.

  
  

Add comment October 22nd, 2008

BAR EXAMINATION 2008: REMEDIAL LAW

Add comment October 1st, 2008

BAR EXAMINATION 2008: MERCANTILE LAW

Add comment September 23rd, 2008