Manila: The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) exceeded its revenue collection goal in May by PHP78.22 million. In a statement Monday, the BIR reported that gross revenues reached PHP279.13 billion in May, reflecting a 14.15 percent increase from the total collection in the same month last year and surpassing the PHP279.056 billion target for May.
According to Philippines News Agency, BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza attributed the high collection in May to the extended income tax return filing period and the ongoing cooperation of taxpayers in fulfilling their tax responsibilities. For the first five months of the year, BIR's collection amounted to PHP1.434 trillion, marking a 5.49 percent increase year-on-year and exceeding the Bureau's PHP1.424 trillion target.
Commissioner Mendoza highlighted that the extension granted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. played a crucial role in aiding taxpayers to manage their finances and comply with tax obligations amid the energy crisis. This extension provided taxpayers with additional time to file and pay accurately, alleviating compliance pressures during a challenging period.
Mendoza also praised various BIR departments for their efforts during the extended filing season. He acknowledged the contributions of Revenue Regions, Revenue District Offices, Large Taxpayers Service, and the National Office. From frontline personnel assisting taxpayers in offices and eLounges to backend teams ensuring continuity of operations, everyone played a role in achieving these results, even as some areas faced power and internet disruptions.
The commissioner noted that recent BIR reforms have also contributed to increased collections. In May, the BIR launched several initiatives, including the Taxpayer Portal for the Large Taxpayers Service, the Registration Seal Badge and QR-enabled Certificate of Registration for online businesses, the Ease of Closing Business reform, and measures to implement the new mining royalty regime under Republic Act No. 12253.
Commissioner Mendoza emphasized the importance of combining revenue growth with BIR DARES reforms. He stated that the BIR will continue to support taxpayers through clearer rules, simpler processes, and enhanced digital services, while simultaneously safeguarding the revenue base through improved enforcement and compliance monitoring.
