BIR maintains relationships with private groups for tax service improvement

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and several business organizations have renewed their commitment to developing a positive relationship to enhance taxpayer service.

The BIR signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with its Multi-Sectoral Group representing the different industries under the private sector, including the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Makati Business Club, and Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation as new members of the multi-sectoral group.

"The BIR welcomes both the old and new members of our Multi-Sectoral Group. The retention of old members and the addition of new members show that our relationship with the private sector is productive and fruitful. The private sector is, and always will be, our partner in nation-building," Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. stated.

According to Lumagui, the private sector can voice its concerns with the BIR's current and proposed policies and regulations through the Multi-Sectoral Group.

Regular dialogues and consultations with the private sector are in keeping with Lumagui's thrust for excellent taxpayer service.

Under the agreement, a signing of MOA renewal will be conducted annually to allow regular evaluation and adjustments to ensure that the agreement will be practical and relevant to the needs of both the BIR and the private sector.

Last year, a similar agreement was signed with the nine members of the multi-sectoral group, which include the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tax Management Association of the Philippines, Management Association of the Philippines, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Association of Certified Public Accountants in Public Practice, Association of CPAs in Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc., and Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines.

Through the multi-sectoral group, the private sector can voice its concerns about the BIR's current and proposed policies and regulations.

Regular dialogues and consultations with the private sector will also be conducted to improve taxpayer service.

"Regular discourse and exchange of ideas between the BIR and representatives from the private sector will create a more stable taxation system in the Philippines," Lumagui said.