President Declares February as "Tax Awareness Month"
In a move to promote understanding and compliance with the nation's tax laws, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared the month of February of every year as "Tax Awareness Month" through Proclamation No. 486.
The proclamation underscores the critical role of taxation in nation-building, enabling the government to provide for the welfare of its citizens, sustain essential economic and development programs, and steer the country towards robust economic recovery.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the country's premier revenue-generating agency, is tasked with leading, coordinating, and supervising the observance of the Tax Awareness Month. The BIR is expected to identify the programs, activities, and projects for the celebration, focusing on enhancing the public's understanding of tax laws, rules, and regulations.
The initiative aims to improve the nation's tax collection and enhance public trust in the integrity of the country's tax administration system. It is in line with the policies outlined in Republic Act No. 8424, or the "Tax Reform Act of 1997," which seeks to promote sustainable economic growth through the rationalization of the country's internal revenue tax system and provide equitable relief to a greater number of taxpayers.
All agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, and state universities and colleges, are directed to render the necessary support and assistance to the BIR. Local government units, non-government organizations, and the private sector are also encouraged to actively participate in the observance of the Tax Awareness Month.
The proclamation repeals Proclamation Nos. 960 (s. 1972) and 1239 (s. 1974). All other issuances, orders, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this Proclamation are repealed or modified accordingly.
The declaration of February as "Tax Awareness Month" is a significant step towards fostering a culture of tax compliance and understanding among Filipinos, contributing to the nation's economic growth and development.