BIR readies sweeping reforms on tax auditsBIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza said the five-point program, dubbed BIR D.A.R.E.S., is meant to align the bureau’s work with President Marcos’ directive to keep revenue collection focused on nation-building while fixing long-standing weaknesses in tax administration. MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) rolled out a sweeping reform agenda that puts audit reform at the center of its priorities, as the agency prepares to relaunch tax audits under tighter rules, stronger safeguards and greater accountability. Mendoza said audit reform is the most urgent pillar, noting that public trust in the tax system is shaped largely by how audits are conducted and how assessments are issued. In response, the BIR created a technical working group committee on assessment integrity and audit reform, which is reviewing audit processes, systems and controls. Beyond audits, Mendoza said the BIR would push the digitalization of tax services and strengthen risk-based enforcement, particularly for high-risk products such as vape, tobacco and fuel, to support compliance and revenue growth.

Source: Philippine Star January 23, 2026 17:33 UTC