4-8-2023 (MANILA) The Department of Justice is currently handling criminal complaints against more than 200 corporate officers hailing from various companies, who are accused of tax evasion, causing a substantial loss of P6.1 billion to the government.
On August 3, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) lodged tax evasion charges against 214 individuals representing 127 different companies. These charges were filed due to the companies’ failure to remit their taxes. This marks the second time this year that the BIR has taken legal action against corporations for their tax liabilities.
While BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. did not divulge the names of the companies involved, he did specify that they operated in sectors like retail, importation, and construction, among others.
Lumagui stated, “These are various companies and their corporate officers are facing prison time. Aside from that, they also have civil liabilities from tax liabilities that they never paid for.”
He delivered a stern warning to companies and business owners, emphasizing that the BIR would not hesitate to pursue those who attempt to evade taxes or employ fraudulent tactics, such as using ghost receipts.
Moreover, Lumagui reminded taxpayers not to disregard any notices or letters of authority from the BIR. These communications afford taxpayers the opportunity to come forward, explain their circumstances, and avail themselves of due process. If, after careful examination, the BIR finds any tax deficiencies, taxpayers are advised to settle the amount or challenge the assessment within the allotted period.
Lumagui added, “If you ignore these, our audit will proceed and you will have an assessment and maybe that would result in criminal complaints. That’s why make sure that you participate in all the processes we do; we will give you the opportunity to explain.”
Previously, in February, the BIR had filed 74 criminal complaints amounting to P3.58 billion against individuals and corporate taxpayers involved in tax evasion.
