Inaccurate report

On page B-4 of Saturday’s (Oct. 6) edition of the Philippine STAR is an un-bylined and un-sourced story about an international expert warning the DOF against high taxes.That story appeared in an online news outlet on October 3, 2012, and as far as we know, was not picked up by any other major business daily - at least, until Philstar picked it up.

I am forwarding the email below of Mr. Dan Witt, the expert being quoted by the unknown reporter. I quote from Mr. Witt’s email -

“I have just been shown a media release that inaccurately reports on statements made during my Tuesday afternoon interview on ABS/CBN. The media release wrongly characterizes my comments as “warning the government.” Nothing is farther than the truth. I am an honored guest in the Philippines, and we are equally honored that the Department of Finance is hosting the ninth meeting of the Asia Pacific Tax Forum. It is not the purpose of this meeting to publically comment on the specifics of the excise reform currently being considered in the Philippines. Any views my colleagues or I have will be shared with the DOF and BIR officials privately.”

I have been a loyal reader of your newspaper for close to two decades now, and while I respect editorial prerogative on which articles you wish to see print, I, as reader, would want to be informed when an article is a legitimately reported news item, and when it is a company press release. I believe that Philstar has a section featuring mostly press releases. This is a section located much closer to your obituary page.

The story on B-4 about the international tax expert deserves to be nearer the obituary section.

Thank you.

Ma. Teresa S. Habitan

Assistant Secretary

Department of Finance