On Tuesday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivered a strong message of accountability to those who attempt to evade the country’s tax system. Speaking at the 2025 Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) National Tax Campaign Kickoff at the Philippine International Convention Center, he emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting public funds and ensuring tax compliance.
“I have stated this before: We will hold those who continue to circumvent our system accountable,” the President declared during the event, which coincided with the observance of National Tax Awareness Month.
President Marcos underscored the importance of honest tax contributions, highlighting how they fuel initiatives that benefit the entire nation. He expressed both hope and determination, saying, “I say this with hope and sternness—hope that we all recognize the value of contributing to our country, and sternness in that the law will deal firmly with those who exploit the system unfairly.”
The President assured the public that every peso collected is judiciously allocated to programs aimed at improving the lives of citizens. “Makakaasa po kayo na mahigpit nating babantayan ang paggugol sa pondo ng bayan. Sisiguruhin natin na ang ating pondo ay magbubunga ng mga proyektong ikakabuti ng ating bansa at ikauunlad ng bawat isang Pilipino,” he said.
In addition to emphasizing accountability, President Marcos highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance tax collection through digital transformation. He praised the BIR’s adoption of the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS) as a significant step forward, enabling taxpayers to register books, update employee records, and process transfers and document releases more efficiently.
The implementation of Digital TIN IDs has also improved security and convenience for taxpayers, while the Electronic One-Time Transaction (eONETT) System has streamlined the processing and issuance of Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCARs), the President noted.
Overall, the President’s message was clear: the government is committed to enforcing accountability, enhancing tax collection, and ensuring that public funds are used for the betterment of the nation.
