CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) emphasized its shift towards a taxpayer-friendly approach through the Ease of Paying Taxes (EOPT) Act.
BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. highlighted the government’s commitment to streamlining tax processes for Filipinos during the EOPT Roadshow held in this city on July 15.
By the title itself – Ease of Paying Taxes – we can easily conclude that the government is adopting a pro-taxpayer approach as a means to enhance voluntary compliance and eventually aid in economic development,” he said.
Lumagui also underscored the importance of tax collection. Taxes, he said, are the government’s primary revenue source to fund essential services such as infrastructure, social programs, and national security.
Acknowledging the potential for increased taxes during financial gaps, the commissioner stressed the government’s commitment to alternative solutions.
“Our government focused on this (Ease of Paying Taxes Law) because we are fully aware that new taxes could potentially hinder the growth of businesses,” he said.
Lumagui also emphasized the importance of collaboration to make the EOPT Act successful.
“Our legislators and policymakers have generally done their part, incorporating provisions that are friendly to businesses and for growth. Now, the ball is in the court of the BIR and our taxpayers to give full meaning to the spirit of the law,” he emphasized.
On the part of BIR, Lumagui said they have a multi-pronged approach to improve tax administration and ease the compliance burden for taxpayers. This includes providing excellent taxpayer service, fearless and aggressive enforcement activities, integrity and professionalism of its employees, and a digital transformation program.
We are fully aware that tax is just one of the many regulatory matters the businesses must grapple with. But we are committed to relieving the compliance burden so that businesses, especially the small and micro enterprises, can spend more time on their business and not for tax compliance,” Lumagui added. (APB/PIA-10)
