LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – The Bureau of Internal Revenue-Revenue District Office (BIR-RDO) I-Ilocos Norte is strengthening grassroots awareness campaigns to improve tax compliance and ensure taxpayers fully understand their rights and responsibilities.
Revenue District Officer Esperanza Guzman emphasized the importance of educating people at the community level about their tax obligations, highlighting the agency’s commitment to fostering a culture of responsible tax paying.
“All taxpayers should know how important it is to pay the right taxes at the right time, so that they can be inspired to pay more and to improve tax payments,” Guzman stated.
The BIR’s intensified tax education efforts come as the agency reports a steady increase in revenue collection.
By the end of November 2023, the BIR collected P2.34 trillion in taxes nationwide, an 8.6 percent increase from the P2.16 trillion collected in 2022. In 2024, the BIR achieved its highest revenue collection in two decades, reaching P2.85 trillion.
According to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), this growth is a result of enhanced taxpayer education programs, stronger enforcement measures and continuous initiatives to encourage compliance.
Guzman stressed these funds are crucial for national development.
“This is enough to support the projects of the country, especially schools, roads, rural health clinics and facilities for citizens,” she said.
As the April 15 deadline for income tax return (ITR) filing approaches, taxpayers in Ilocos Norte are urged to submit their tax returns and payments on time.
Guzman reminded business owners and consumers to always request receipts when making purchases to help ensure proper tax documentation.
“We encourage everyone to pay their taxes accurately and promptly. Also, always ask for receipts when making transactions. Here at BIR Ilocos Norte, we are ready to assist businesses and ensure that the right taxes are collected for the benefit of our province,” Guzman said.
Guzman urged taxpayers to maintain detailed financial records, as this is essential for determining accurate tax obligations and ensuring transparency in transactions.
“BIR urges taxpayers to comply with receipt requirements, as this helps in accurately assessing financial contributions to the nation,” Guzman said.
The BIR-RDO I-Ilocos Norte, in collaboration with other government agencies, continues to promote tax compliance and fiscal responsibility as part of efforts to drive economic growth and national development. (CCMT/MTDA/HCDG, PIA Ilocos Norte)
