Cavite 2nd District Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla has called for a timely review of the tax reform for acceleration and inclusion (TRAIN) Act and the expanded value-added tax (E-VAT) law, citing their heavy impact on the income of Filipinos, particularly those in the middle class.

“These reforms are essential if we want to secure the stability of poor households and prevent the middle class from sliding into poverty," Revilla said in a privilege speech during the House of Representatives’ plenary session on December 2.

According to Revilla, aside from the withholding tax deducted from workers’ salaries, Filipinos also pay additional taxes when they spend their income on essential goods such as food and other family needs.

RH Milky Rigonan reported on dzRH's Operation Tulong, as an example, Revilla pointed out that a family spending PHP 20,000 monthly on taxable goods pays PHP 2,400 in VAT, amounting to PHP 28,000 per year.

She said that the money could instead be used for savings, education, or an emergency fund for the family.

The lawmaker also highlighted other hidden taxes that affect the middle class, including the system loss charge on electricity bills and excise taxes on petroleum products.

Amid rising prices of goods and services, Revilla urged Congress to consider amendments to the TRAIN and E-VAT laws to reduce income taxes and alleviate the financial burden on ordinary Filipinos, especially the middle class.

She further recommended exploring a middle-class relief package to support working families facing high taxation, steep living costs, and limited social protection.

Revilla added that by easing the tax load on middle-class households, they not only support their financial stability but also strengthen the backbone of the economy.

"Let us listen intently to the cries of the Filipino middle class," she emphasized.