BIR to impose ‘Oplan kandado’

By Lito Dar

BAGUIO CITY – The Bureau of Internal Revenue is set to implement “Oplan Kandado”, on order of the newly installed BIR Commisioner Sixto Esquivias IV.

BIR Cordillera Director Norberto Vitug recently told newsmen here under the program, repeat offenders of collection deficiency would face closure.

All apprehended establishments in 2007 and 2008 that were not registered or did not issue tax receipts will be listed, and those caught again this year for reiteration of violation, would constitute additional sanctions and could face closure.

Vitug said establishments found violating again the tax code during their tax-mapping this year could face closure or additional sanction, until they comply with all regulations pertaining to their particular business.

“After their bench-marking and due process, establishments that will be found out to have claimed expenses that cannot be justified or taxpayers with sales/receipts declared that are 30%, or more lower than the actual, will also get an additional sanctions and could be closed,” Vitug added.

Vitug said the BIR has three ways to implement sanctions against tax deficiency: administrative, civil and criminal.

In the Cordillera, the BIR reportedly resorts to criminal actions or filing of cases against offenders in the fiscal’s office, after thorough assessment and prior notices.

Meanwhile, Vitug said the BIR will also be selecting “honest taxpayers”. These are taxpayers with an increment of 20% or more from their previous taxes.

The list of honest taxpayers will be recorded by the bureau and will also be submitted to the Department of Finance.

Those who will be included in the list will have immunity from investigation, pertaining to their taxes.