BIR exempts imported PPEs, med supplies from tax

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has exempted imported personal protective equipment (PPE), medical supplies, test kits, and other materials needed for the fight against COVID-19 from import duties, value-added tax, excise tax, and donor’s tax.

These exemptions are in accordance with Republic Act No. 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, which grants President Rodrigo Duterte additional powers during the pandemic.

The Department of Finance (DOF) stated that items such as PPEs, medical equipment, and consumable supplies identified by the Department of Health (DOH) are exempt from all taxes and fees until the end of the three-month validity period of RA 11469.