SyCipLaw, in collaboration with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Subic Bay Workforce Foundation, recently held its Kapihan sa SyCipLaw: Updates on Taxation and Employment and Immigration Laws at The Aurora Subic Hotel, Subic Bay Freeport, Olongapo City. The event brought together business owners, in-house counsel, legal and HR professionals, compliance officers, and senior executives involved in regulatory compliance and business operations from SBMA and Manila.
Senior Partner and Head of the Tax Department Carina C. Laforteza welcomed all participants and shared that this year marks the Firm’s 80 years of service, adding: “We continue to be committed to providing practical, timely, and relevant legal guidance to our clients and partners across the Philippines. Our Kapihan sessions are part of that commitment, designed to offer focused insights into developments in taxation, labor, and regulatory compliance that impact businesses.”
The event opened with a keynote address by Atty. Melvin L. Varias, SBMA Labor Department Manager and OIC-Deputy Administrator for Legal Affairs, who shared insights on the latest labor regulations affecting businesses operating in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The seminar featured five focused presentations by SyCipLaw lawyers, moderated by Partner Joanna Marie O. Joson and Special Counsel Rosevee R. Paylip-Guiang.
During the morning session, Partner Maria Viola B. Vista discussed the salient points of the CREATE MORE ACT and its implementing rules and regulations, helping attendees understand the latest changes to the tax incentive regime. Special Counsel Catherina M. Fernandez provided practical guidance on navigating the issues in availing of value-added tax incentives, highlighting common compliance challenges and their real-world application. Senior Associate Diana Elaine B. Bataller concluded the morning session with a presentation on handling letters of authority (LOAs) and other notices from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, offering attendees best practices for managing these tax compliance processes efficiently.
The afternoon sessions began with Partner Mark Kevin U. Dellosa, who presented an overview of essential HR matters, sharing practical tips for labor compliance and managing employee-related issues. Partner Emmar Benjoe B. Panahon discussed recent Supreme Court decisions that have significantly influenced labor law in the Philippines, providing insights into how these rulings impact day-to-day business operations.
The event allowed participants to engage directly with SyCipLaw experts, gaining valuable insights into current developments in taxation, labor compliance, and employee management. Through the Kapihan series, SyCipLaw continues to provide thought leadership and practical guidance, fostering informed discussion on emerging legal issues affecting businesses in the Philippines.
The session ended with closing remarks by Partner Russel L. Rodriguez, the outgoing Head of SyCipLaw Subic, who thanked the participants for their engagement and continued support. He added: “Having served the Subic office for over a decade, I am always grateful for opportunities like this to connect with our community and to gather with colleagues and partners who share our commitment to growth and collaboration. We look forward to seeing you at our next Kapihan.”
