BIR Region 13 optimistic to collect its tax goal of over P55B for 2025

CEBU CITY – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)-Region 13 covering five revenue districts in the provinces of Cebu and Bohol, is very optimistic to reach its tax collection goal of P55,143,578,000.00 for 2025, having exceeded its tax collection goals for two consecutive years 2023 and 2024.

“In 2023, the region collected P42.6B exceeding the P41.9B goal and in 2024, we collected P49.1B, slightly surpassing the P48.82B target. Key strategies include monitoring taxpayer compliance, improving service through digitalization, and maintaining ISO certification,” Antonino Ilagan, regional director, Revenue Region 13 shared at the Kapihan sa PIA, April 2 at Seda Central Bloc, Cebu City.

Ilagan said that the goal for 2025 is set at over P55 billion, with a focus on maintaining and improving performance with all the district revenue units in the region are very much aware of the importance of monitoring compliance and providing excellent service to top taxpayers, who contribute 80% of the collection goal.

Tax compliance monitoring with the use of data-driven methods and are done on a monthly basis, email blasting and the enforcement activities are crucial for maintaining taxpayers’ compliance given the approaching April 15 tax filing deadline, he added.

 "The region focuses on digital transformation, with many e-services available, including online registration and one-time transaction appointments; the importance of monitoring compliance in the use of e-services to ensure their effective utilization; continuous development of employees through training and programs and bold enforcement activities are being planned to prevent smuggling and other illegal activities.  These are all embodied in the BIR’s four pillars of good governance,” Ilagan bared.

2024 Annual Income Tax Filing Updates

The Kapihan discussion further delved on the annual income tax filing updates.  Attorney Frank Joey Bayan revealed that the 2024 annual income tax filing will be electronic, with various payment options and electronic submission of attachments.

“The region is gearing towards full digitalization by 2028, with electronic filing systems available on the BIR website. Different modes of filing are now available, including all kinds of forms and tax software providers and modes of payment include electronic E-pay gateways, manual payments, and revenue collection agents, with specific limits and options for cash and check payments,” Atty. Bayan shared.

Bayan announced that per BIR Bank Bulletin # 2025-01 and 2025-02, all BIR authorized agent banks (AABs) shall accept out-of-district tax payments from taxpayers; accept tax returns/payments on two Saturdays, April 5 and April 12, 2025 and to extend banking hours up to 5:00pm from April 1 to 15, 2025 to accept tax returns/payments.

Attachments like annual financial statements must be submitted with the income tax returns.  The E-apps facility is available for electronic submission of attachments, with specific reference numbers required.  A message is sent to the enrolled email when attachments are successfully uploaded. “Accurate and timely submission of attachments is crucial to ensure proper processing of tax returns,” Atty. Bayan said.

Director Ilagan, in his parting statements, called on all taxpayers to start filing their tax returns this early to avoid penalties and urged them to visit the BIR district revenue offices for briefing of electronic filing of the annual income tax returns. 

(Photos: MBCNewman)