Recto commits to tougher actions against tax evaders

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto vowed to enhance government enforcement actions against tax evaders to provide support to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in boosting its tax collections.

At the BIR’s National Tax Campaign Kick-off event, Recto has assured the unwavering support of the Department of Finance (DOF) to the tax bureau, ensuring assistance in reaching its record P3.5 trillion collection target.

“We will strengthen enforcement efforts against tax cheats and ensure fairness in the tax system to build taxpayers’ trust,” Recto said.

BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr., meanwhile, assured that the bureau will persist in conducting raids and initiating criminal cases against offenders to combat tax evasion.

The BIR’s estimates indicated that the government is losing around P500 billion due to tax evasion.

In an effort to reduce tax cheats, Lumagui said the BIR will remain focused on pursuing tax offenders.

However, he added that the BIR is hoping for voluntary compliance from taxpayers in meeting their tax obligations.

Meanwhile, Recto said the DOF will help the tax agnency in ramping up its modernization programs to make general tax compliance easier and taxation equitable.

The finance chief earlier emphasized the importance of Filipinos diligently fulfilling their tax duties, highlighting their vital role in the country’s development.

Recto underscored the significance of both the tax agency and taxpayers effectively fulfilling their respective roles in advancing progress.

He stated that the responsibility of generating revenue is not solely the duty of the BIR, but rather, “it is a shared responsibility with our taxpayers.” — Chino S. Leyco