The hardline stand of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) against tax evasion racket has been boosted with the full support extended by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the prosecution of negligent taxpayers.
This was learned after BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. addressed a large group of businessmen and tax practitioners at the convention center of the SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City hosted by the East NCR revenue region on Thursday, Feb. 16.
The BIR chief said that Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla assured him during their meeting of the DOJ's full support in enforcing tax laws and regulations.
It can be recalled that Lumagui has already filed 74 criminal charges for tax evasion worth more some P3.5 billion early this month before the DOJ.
Lumagui told East NCR taxpayers that the bureau will strive to render efficient and honest service to taxpayers complying with their tax obligations, but "will continue our hardline policy against tax evaders."
"We are not here to penalize you but assist you in complying with your financial obligations to the government," he added.
The East NCR is the biggest revenue region of the bureau headed by Director Albino M. Galanza, comprising Mandaluyong, Pasig, Marikina, San Juan and all cities and towns of Rizal Province.
It is expected to raise P114 billion this year, roughly 20 percent higher over the P96 billion take in 2022.