BUSINESS
Advocates Philippines
Tax Perks Eyed For Pro Bono Lawyers
Photo credit: BIR
Lawyers who provide free legal services may soon receive added incentives, as the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) explores ways to support legal aid work through tax benefits.
The discussion came after BIR officials met with Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, who heads the Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS), along with members of its secretariat. The meeting, held at the BIR National Office in Quezon City, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen access to justice across the country.
One of the key proposals raised during the meeting was the creation of updated revenue regulations that would align with ULAS rules. These would build on existing policies under Republic Act No. 9999, also known as the Free Legal Assistance Act of 2010, which already provides tax incentives for lawyers offering pro bono services.
ULAS representatives emphasized that legal aid today goes beyond assisting indigent clients. Under the expanded framework, services can also cover other qualified beneficiaries, reflecting a broader approach to making legal help more accessible.
For its part, the BIR said it is open to studying the proposal carefully before rolling out any new measures.
“We recognize the vital role of lawyers in advancing access to justice. The BIR will work closely with ULAS to develop a system that appropriately supports and incentivizes the provision of legal aid services,” said Charlito Martin R. Mendoza.
Both sides agreed to continue working together to refine the plan, including simplifying requirements and improving how the incentives would be implemented.
If approved, the initiative could encourage more lawyers to participate in legal aid programs—potentially expanding access to legal services for Filipinos who need it most.
The discussion came after BIR officials met with Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, who heads the Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS), along with members of its secretariat. The meeting, held at the BIR National Office in Quezon City, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen access to justice across the country.
One of the key proposals raised during the meeting was the creation of updated revenue regulations that would align with ULAS rules. These would build on existing policies under Republic Act No. 9999, also known as the Free Legal Assistance Act of 2010, which already provides tax incentives for lawyers offering pro bono services.
ULAS representatives emphasized that legal aid today goes beyond assisting indigent clients. Under the expanded framework, services can also cover other qualified beneficiaries, reflecting a broader approach to making legal help more accessible.
For its part, the BIR said it is open to studying the proposal carefully before rolling out any new measures.
“We recognize the vital role of lawyers in advancing access to justice. The BIR will work closely with ULAS to develop a system that appropriately supports and incentivizes the provision of legal aid services,” said Charlito Martin R. Mendoza.
Both sides agreed to continue working together to refine the plan, including simplifying requirements and improving how the incentives would be implemented.
If approved, the initiative could encourage more lawyers to participate in legal aid programs—potentially expanding access to legal services for Filipinos who need it most.
Mar 24, 2026
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