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BIR chief warns tax fraudsters: 'Expect criminal cases' in 2025

Business

BIR chief warns tax fraudsters: 'Expect criminal cases' in 2025

By Jun Ramirez

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will aggressively continue its campaign against ghost receipts, illicit vape products, and illegal cigarettes throughout 2025, Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. announced.

Lumagui's statement follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s recent warning during the BIR’s 2025 tax campaign launch, emphasizing that individuals and businesses engaged in tax fraud will be held accountable.

The commissioner highlighted the success of the Run After Fake Transactions (RAFT) program, which led to multiple cases being filed against ghost sellers and buyers, resulting in over P4.3 billion collections, a significant increase from the P600 million collected in 2023.

Additionally, the agency’s intensified crackdown on ghost receipts, Illicit vape products, and other excisable goods generated more than P110 million last year.

Since 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has consistently issued favorable rulings on criminal cases filed by the RAFT task force against ghost receipt buyers.

"We achieved a historic increase in VAT collection due to our RAFT initiative. The DOJ has ruled in favor of the BIR in criminal cases against ghost receipt buyers, and warrants of arrest will follow," Lumagui stated.

Looking ahead, the BIR chief said the agency has already planned multiple enforcement operations targeting the sale and distribution of illicit vape and cigarette products. These efforts will include continued raids on stores, warehouses and establishments found to be involved in illegal activities.

"In 2025, expect criminal cases to be filed against those dealing in illicit vape products. We know who you are—whether you're a large-scale importer or a small reseller. Criminal charges will be pursued this year," Lumagui warned.

Related Tags

Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. BIR Commissioner Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)

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