ILIGAN CITY (PIA) -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue District Office (BIR-RDO)-101 has launched its 2024 tax campaign to promote responsible tax payments as a catalyst for economic development.
Dubbed "Sa Tamang Buwis, Pag-asenso’y Mabilis" (With Right Taxes, Progress is Swift), the campaign aims to inform taxpayers, accountants, and practitioners about the importance of fulfilling their tax obligations.
BIR RDO 101 Revenue District Officer Malik Dimakuta emphasized that paying taxes is not just a legal duty but also a moral obligation to contribute to economic recovery and development.
“The objective of this activity] is to promote tax awareness so that our tax-paying public will be informed of their duties, not just a legal duty but a moral duty to pay and contribute to the government's fund. Taxes are the lifeblood of the government. It is rooted in the symbiotic relationship between country and citizens to help one another,” he said.
He endorsed the four pillars of the administration that BIR Commissioner Romeo "Jun" Lumagui Jr. had outlined: increased enforcement efforts, top-notch taxpayer services, upholding integrity and professionalism, and ongoing digitalization initiatives.
Dimakuta also emphasized the significance of ongoing digitalization and highlighted the recent enactment of Republic Act No. 11976, also known as the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, which simplifies the tax filing processes and encourages digital payment methods.
Moreover, taxpayers in Iligan City and Lanao del Norte province must pay their taxes correctly and on time before the deadline on April 15.
Meanwhile, Mayor Frederick Siao said fair and efficient taxation improves public services, infrastructure, and social welfare.
“Let us reaffirm our dedication to principles of integrity, accountability, and public service. Let us seize this opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of our fellow Iliganons and contribute to the progress of our beloved country,” he said.
Moreover, Reggie Punongbayan, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation of Iligan Inc., expressed full support for the BIR's efforts to enhance tax compliance and awareness among businesses and individuals.
“We recognize the significance of upholding integrity and transparency in our tax obligations because they are fundamental to fostering trust and confidence in our economic system,” she said.
Other stakeholders also pledged their support to disseminate accurate information about tax obligations and guide taxpayers to better understand and appreciate the current administration's efforts to streamline tax processes, improve tax compliance, and sustain revenue collection growth. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
