Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 7)— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called on Filipinos to settle their tax dues “on time” to help aid the country’s economic recovery.
Marcos made the remark during the kickoff event of the government’s national tax campaign — where he also lauded the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for its intensified collection efforts.
In 1997, the Supreme Court ruled with finality that the Marcos family owed the government ₱23 billion in estate taxes. The tax liability has allegedly ballooned to ₱203 billion due to penalties and surcharges.“I encourage the public to pay the correct amount of taxes on time to support the country’s economic recovery and expansion so critical in this time,” Marcos said. “Rest assured that this government will remain committed to managing and utilizing these contributions for the benefit of the country and for every Filipino,” he added. The chief executive also vowed that all taxes paid will turn into an “investment” as the government works to further improve the quality of life in the country.
In 2022, the government’s revenue collections reached ₱3.2 trillion — exceeding its year-end target by 2.2%.
Marcos likewise acknowledged the BIR’s modernization and digitalization push, as well as its programs in running after tax evaders. “I assure the BIR that this administration will always give its support in your aspiration of developing a country that is conducive for employment opportunities, financial investments, and institution-building,” he said. Marcos made no mention of his family’s unpaid taxes.The president’s political party Partido Federal ng Pilipinas earlier agreed that the Supreme Court’s decision on the Marcos family’s estate tax liability was final and executory, but the surcharges could still be subject to reconciliation.
The president, in a previous interview, also said the case should be “opened” and argued upon — noting that his family was “never allowed” to give its side on the matter.
