Quisumbing Torres‘ cohort is well-placed to assist its client portfolio on complex taxation matters in both domestic and international contexts. The team has a broad range of capabilities, including assisting with tax planning and transactions; tax policy; indirect taxation matters; and international and commercial trade matters. In addition, it is well-placed to advise on general wealth management, as well as on high-value disputes. Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo heads up the practice and specialises in industrials, manufacturing, and transportation-related cases. Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan’s ‘energetic approach never fails to amaze’, and she is experienced handling tariff rates-related issues amongst others. Ronald Bernas departed in July 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team's strength is their deep understanding and experience in various areas of tax such as tax controversy, international tax and practical tax application. This gives comfort to me as a client that I am getting well-rounded, solid tax advice.'
'I can rely on the team for support during matters that require direct engagement with the Bureau of Inland Revenue.’
‘The notable tax partner I have the privilege of working with is Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan. Her energetic approach to all the tax matters in the Philippines never ceases to amaze me. She was available and always stood ready to take instructions.’
‘Very competent, very careful, well-connected with the BIR and very well-versed in dealing with compliance matters.’
‘The team at QT headed by Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo is the best I’ve worked with the Philippines.’
Key clients
- Alphabet (Google Inc.)
- Universal Entertainment Corporation
Work highlights
- Represented an informal coalition of leading global companies before the technical working group of the Philippine Senate's Ways and Means committee in formulating the law that will impose VAT on digital transactions of non-resident digital service providers.
- Representing the Philippine subsidiary of the world's largest supplier and manufacturer of sportswear and equipment in three ongoing judicial protests with the CTA against deficiency tax assessments issued by the BIR for three different taxable years.
- Represented a global leader in manufacturing semiconductors before the Strategic Trade Management Office in respect of minimising potential consequences for the exportation of semifinished goods with military end-use without prior export authorization.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo
Other key lawyers
Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan; Roberto Romalio Reyes