The proposed fiscal regime for large-scale mining is now on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s desk, awaiting his signature to become law, Inquirer reported.
The Inquirer said it obtained a transmittal letter confirming that the House of Representatives transmitted the consolidated version on July 31.
The measure, which consolidates Senate Bill 2826 and House Bill 8937, introduces margin-based royalties on mines outside mineral reservations and a windfall profits tax on all mines. By removing the old distinctions among mining agreements, the law aims to create a simpler, fairer, and more predictable system for both government and industry.
According to the Department of Finance (DOF), the current structure creates inconsistencies, since obligations vary depending on the type of mining agreement. Under the overhaul, the government will secure a larger and more reliable share from mineral extraction, while ensuring fiscal stability for investors.
The measure also includes a ring-fencing rule, which prevents companies from offsetting losses in one project against profits in another, and limits interest deductions from related-party loans to reduce tax avoidance. In addition, firms will be required to publicly disclose financial, tax, and environmental information.
Around 40% of government revenues collected from mining under the new regime will go directly to host local government units (LGUs). The DOF said this ensures communities benefit more visibly from mining activities while reinforcing environmental safeguards.
Industry groups, including Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) and Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA), have backed the bill.
“We also see the importance of what this law provides: predictability and consistency in the fiscal framework, which are essential for long-term planning and investment,” COMP chair Michael Toledo said.
“The new tax regime aligns the Philippines with global mining jurisdictions, making us more competitive and attractive to investors, especially at a time when the demand for critical minerals is surging worldwide,” added Toledo.
“In this regard, we reiterate our support for a margins- and windfall-profits based tax structure, which better reflects actual business performance and aligns with international best practices,” PNIA, on the other hand, said.
“Fiscal predictability and economic rationality are essential to attract long-term investments and enable the growth of a competitive, responsible mining industry,” it added.
How will this new mining tax system reshape investments and community benefits in the years ahead?
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