CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY-The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Northern Mindanao has reported a significant increase in tax collections:he Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Northern Mindanao has reported a significant increase in tax collections, reaching PHP13.1 billion from January to August this year, a 12.3 percent rise from the same period in 2023.
According to Philippines News Agency, BIR Revenue Region 16 Assistant Director Helen Abellanosa illustrated the growth during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum on Tuesday. She credited the increase primarily to enhanced voluntary tax compliance from commercial enterprises. Abellanosa emphasized the importance of continued adherence to tax regulations, stating, “We will resort to enforcement activities if we see that voluntary compliance is not improving.” Region 16, which includes six Revenue District Offices-located in Iligan City, Cagayan de Oro City, Gingoog City, Malaybalay City, Ozamiz City, and Marawi City-has also made strides in curbing tax evasion
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Further detailing the region’s enforcement successes, Abellanosa mentioned the collection of PHP15.4 million in contraband items. The confiscated goods included 152,000 packs of cigarettes and 752 vapor product pods, signaling a robust approach to illegal trade activities in the region.
Additionally, she highlighted the BIR’s commitment to adopting digital solutions to ease the tax payment process. The push towards digital transformation aims to streamline operations and encourage taxpayers to transition to online platforms, ensuring a more efficient collection system.