February declared ‘Tax Awareness Month’

President Marcos has issued a proclamation declaring February of every year as “Tax Awareness Month” to enhance public’s support for revenue initiatives of the government and improve the country’s tax collection.

In signing Proclamation 486, Marcos stressed the need to promote and enhance the awareness of Filipinos on tax laws, rules and regulations to strengthen the government’s fiscal position.

“Taxation is crucial for nationbuilding as it allows the government to promote the welfare of citizens, sustain essential economic and development programs, and push the country towards strong economic recovery,” Marcos said.

The proclamation was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by the authority of the President on March 1.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) – the premier revenue-generating agency of the country – is mandated to lead, coordinate, and supervise the observance of the Tax Awareness Month.

Marcos said the BIR needs the support of all sectors in disseminating information on the various requirements of taxation.

He directed all agencies and instrumentalities of the national government, including government-owned or-controlled corporations, government financial institutions, and state universities and colleges to actively participate in the observance.

Marcos also encouraged local government units and the private sector to take part in the activities.

In January, the President signed Republic Act 11976, also known as “Ease of Paying Taxes Act,” to further improve revenue collection and protect the taxpayers’ rights through digitalization.