DOF tells taxpayers to ‘be part of nation-building’

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

In a push to modernize tax administration and enhance revenue collection, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto calls on Filipino taxpayers to play a crucial part in nation-building by responsibly settling their tax dues.

Secretary Recto’s recent announcement promises an unprecedented ease in tax compliance, facilitated by the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s (BIR) digital transformation efforts.

As the April 15 deadline looms, taxpayers are reminded of their indispensable role. “Our ability to steer the country forward is largely dependent on your cooperation,” Recto states, framing tax compliance as both a patriotic duty and a cornerstone for national progress.

This call to action comes on the heels of Secretary Recto’s ambitious goal to raise PHP 4.3 trillion in revenues, a task set upon his appointment in January this year.

With the BIR expected to contribute PHP 3.05 trillion, these funds are earmarked for propelling the Philippines towards the vision of ‘Bagong Pilipinas,’ characterized by a more inclusive economy, substantial infrastructure, and increased investments in human capital.

To achieve the daily revenue target of PHP 11.7 billion and support the PHP 5.767 trillion national budget, the BIR has implemented several initiatives under the Ease of Paying Taxes (EOPT) Act. The Act, effective since January 5, 2024, introduces streamlined online filing and payments through the BIR portal and extended services in authorized agent banks (AABs).

In a bid to cater to taxpayers’ needs and expedite processes, AABs will operate on selected Saturdays and extend banking hours up until the mid-April deadline.

Additionally, the BIR has partnered with electronic wallets like Maya and online portals such as Landbank Link.BizPortal and MyEG to diversify payment channels.

For face-to-face assistance, the BIR E-Filing Tax Assistance Center at the BIR National Training Center (NTC) Auditorium remains open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM until the deadline. The Center is a testament to the BIR’s commitment to providing accessible support to the public.

The Digital Transformation (DX) Program is another cornerstone of the BIR’s modernization agenda. It features various projects aimed at elevating the taxpayer experience through robust digital technologies, including the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS), Electronic Invoicing/ Receipting and Sales Reporting System (EIS), and Enhanced Digital Queueing System, among others.

Secretary Recto assures steadfast support from the Department of Finance for the BIR’s modernization initiatives. He commits to expediting project proposals that further tax administration efficiency and ensuring that Filipino taxpayers receive services that align with global standards.

“On the Department of Finance’s part, we will remain a strong supporter of the BIR as it ramps up its modernization programs to make general tax compliance easier and taxation equitable. We will act fast on the BIR’s project proposals to enhance tax administration. We will not cease innovating to align our processes with global standards and provide Filipinos with excellent services,” Secretary Recto emphasized.