'Use new technology to battle corruption in tax system' – SC Justice Leonen

Supreme Court (SC) Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen underscored the potential of technological innovation “to battle the many challenges in the country’s tax system, including corruption.”

“Technology has already started to transform various sectors, and it can play a crucial role in improving tax administration, boosting efficiency and enhancing transparency,” Leonen said.

He was guest speaker during the recent induction ceremonies for the 2025 board of directors of the Tax Management Association of the Philippines, Inc. (TMAP).

Without citing specifics on corruption, Leonen pointed out the need to combat corruption in the tax system as he warned that “it has evolved into more complex and often unrecognizable forms.” 

“Today we need to engage the broader networks, embrace new technologies and continually enhance our skills to stay ahead,” he stressed. 

In his speech, Leonen cited the judiciary’s ongoing digital transformation through the SC’s five-year Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI) that was launched in 2022.

He said the SPJI embraced modern technology “to improve access to justice for all Filipinos, regardless of their geographical location or social status.”

The eCourt PH 2.0, Leonen said was designed to establish a fully digital court system, reducing delays and enhancing transparency and efficiency in judicial processes. 

He cited the six components of the eCourt PH 2.0 -- digital filing and service of all pleadings, motions, and other court documents, as well as the digital service of court orders in civil cases; installation of court management applications in all trial courts; digital filing and service before the SC and appellate courts in civil cases; digital appeals process in civil cases; and digital criminal and special proceedings.

The TMAP was founded in 1981. It is composed of tax professionals whose aim is to advance reforms in country’s tax policies and administration. 

The SC’s Office of the Spokesperson said the event was also attended by Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr.

It said the attendees among the TMAP incumbent and former officers were 2025 TMAP President lawyer Carina C. Laforteza; TMAP Vice President for Internal Affairs lawyer Martin Ignacio D. Mijares; TMAP Vice President for External Affairs Roselle Y. Caraig; TMAP Corporate Secretary lawyer Irwin C. Nidea, Jr.; TMAP Director lawyer  Rachelle Ann Baod-Montalvo; TMAP Auditor lawyer Michael P. Garcia; 2024 TMAP president lawyer Jacqueline Yu-Villar; 2023 TMAP president lawyer Suzette A. Celicious-Sy; and lawyers Hector M. De Leon, Jr. and Serafin U. Salvador.