CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — Business organizations here expressed their full support for the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) as they joined the BIR Revenue District Office (RDO) 98 in the launch of the Bureau’s 2025 tax campaign on February 17.
Engr. Almarco C. Brito, President of the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (Oro Chamber), said the tax campaign is vital in promoting tax compliance and raising awareness about the responsibility of citizens in contributing to the growth of the country and communities.
Brito emphasized that while the tax topic may be challenging for some, it is essential in creating a well-balanced society. He likened taxes to a buffet, noting that although not every aspect may be enjoyable, they are crucial for maintaining societal balance.
He highlighted the Oro Chamber’s commitment to advocating for a transparent and fair tax system, announcing the Chamber’s sponsorship of a tax forum in March to stir public awareness that taxes should be viewed as an investment in a thriving community.
“We also champion the ease of doing business and paying taxes, ensuring that platforms are seamless, fair, and transparent. In fact, this March, we are sponsoring a tax forum because every peso we pay contributes to the brighter future we want for our children,” Brito added.
Efren T. Uy, President of the Misamis Oriental Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (MOFCCCI), echoed similar sentiments.
“Paying taxes is a social obligation of every citizen, and it is the bloodline of our government,” Uy stated.
He commended the BIR’s campaign and reaffirmed the MOFCCCI’s dedication to educating member companies on tax compliance.
“With so many concerns disabling our country nowadays, especially our problems with typhoons and floods, the government needs our full cooperation and support so it will be able to build the necessary roads, bridges, and other infrastructures to enhance the country’s competitiveness and achieve an inclusive growth for every Filipino,” Uy emphasized.
Henry S. Dy, President of the Cagayan de Oro Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (CDOFCCII), declared full support for the BIR’s efforts.
“As business leaders and citizens, we recognize the importance of a strong tax system in building a prosperous nation. By contributing our fair share, we not only help the government fund vital infrastructure and public services, but we also strengthen the foundations of our economy,” he said.
Dy emphasized the Filipino-Chinese business community’s commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and nation-building and reaffirmed their support for the BIR’s mission to create a fair and accountable tax system for the nation’s progress.
He also praised the BIR’s initiatives to simplify and modernize the tax process to make it easier for businesses to meet their obligations. He noted that such improvements would benefit businesses and strengthen public trust in the system.
As partners in progress, the three business leaders vowed to continue engaging their members in tax awareness initiatives to promote compliance.
RDO 98 kicked off the 2025 tax campaign “Buwis na Tapat, Tagumpay Nating Lahat” to emphasize the importance of timely and accurate tax payments in supporting the country’s economic recovery and development. The event was attended by officers of local business chambers of commerce, tax practitioners in Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de Oro, and representatives of national line agencies and local government units. (APB/PIA-10)
