TAX ATION

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GENERAL PRINCIPLES
d. Encourage Economic Growth in the realm of tax
I. Concepts, Nature and Characteristics of Taxation and exemptions and tax reliefs, for instance, the purpose is to grant
Taxes. incentives or exemptions in order to encourage investments and
thereby promote the countrys economic growth.

Taxation Defined: e. Protectionism in some important sectors of the economy, as

in the case of foreign importations, taxes sometimes provide
As a process, it is a means by which the sovereign, through its protection to local industries like protective tariffs and customs.
law-making body, raises revenue to defray the necessary expenses
of the government. It is merely a way of apportioning the costs of Taxes Defined
government among those who in some measures are privileged to
enjoy its benefits and must bear its burdens. Taxes are the enforced proportional contributions from persons
and property levied by the law-making body of the State by virtue of
As a power, taxation refers to the inherent power of the state to its sovereignty for the support of government and for public needs.
demand enforced contributions for public purpose or purposes.
Essential Characteristic of Taxes [ LEMP3S ]
Rationale of Taxation - The Supreme Court held:
It is said that taxes are what we pay for civilized society. 1. It is levied by the law-making body of the State
Without taxes, the government would be paralyzed for lack of the The power to tax is a legislative power which under the
motive power to activate and operate it. Hence, despite the natural Constitution only Congress can exercise through the enactment of
reluctance to surrender part of ones hard-earned income to the laws. Accordingly, the obligation to pay taxes is a statutory liability.
taxing authorities, every person who is able must contribute his share
in the running of the government. The government for its part is 2. It is an enforced contribution
expected to respond in the form of tangible and intangible benefits A tax is not a voluntary payment or donation. It is not
intended to improve the lives of the people and enhance their moral dependent on the will or contractual assent, express or implied, of
and material values. The symbiotic relationship is the rationale the person taxed. Taxes are not contracts but positive acts of the
of taxation and should dispel the erroneous notion that it is an government.
arbitrary method of exaction by those in the seat of power.
Taxation is a symbiotic relationship, whereby in exchange 3. It is generally payable in money
for the protection that the citizens get from the government, taxes are Tax is a pecuniary burden an exaction to be discharged
paid. (Commissioner of Internal Revenue vs Allegre, Inc.,et al., L- alone in the form of money which must be in legal tender, unless
28896, Feb. 17, 1988) qualified by law, such as RA 304 which allows backpay certificates as
payment of taxes.
Purposes and Objectives of Taxation
4. It is proportionate in character - It is ordinarily based on the
1. Revenue to provide funds or property with which the State taxpayers ability to pay.
promotes the general welfare and protection of its citizens.
5. It is levied on persons or property - A tax may also be imposed
2. Non-Revenue [PR2EP] on acts, transactions, rights or privileges.

a. Promotion of General Welfare Taxation may be used as 6. It is levied for public purpose or purposes - Taxation involves,
an implement of police power in order to promote the general welfare and a tax constitutes, a burden to provide income for public
of the people. [see Lutz vs Araneta (98 Phil 148) and Osmea vs purposes.
Orbos (G.R. No. 99886, Mar. 31, 1993)]
7. It is levied by the State which has jurisdiction over the persons or
b. Regulation As in the case of taxes levied on excises and property. - The persons, property or service to be taxed must be
privileges like those imposed in tobacco or alcoholic products or subject to the jurisdiction of the taxing state.
amusement places like night clubs, cabarets, cockpits, etc.
In the case of Caltex Phils. Inc. vs COA (G.R. No. 92585,
May 8, 1992), it was held that taxes may also be imposed for a Theory and Basis of Taxation
regulatory purpose as, for instance, in the rehabilitation and
stabilization of a threatened industry which is affected with public 1. Necessity Theory
industry like the oil industry. Taxes proceed upon the theory that the existence of the
government is a necessity; that it cannot continue without the means
c. Reduction of Social Inequality this is made possible to pay its expenses; and that for those means, it has the right to
through the progressive system of taxation where the objective is to compel all citizens and properties within its limits to contribute.
prevent the under-concentration of wealth in the hands of few In a case, the Supreme Court held that:
individuals.
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Taxation is a power emanating from necessity. It is a 2. Legislative in character The power to tax is exclusively
necessary burden to preserve the States sovereignty and a means legislative and cannot be exercised by the executive or judicial
to give the citizenry an army to resist aggression, a navy to defend its branch of the government.
shores from invasion, a corps of civil servants to serve, public
improvements designed for the enjoyment of the citizenry and those 3. Subject to constitutional and inherent limitations Although
which come with the States territory and facilities, and protection in one decided case the Supreme Court called it an awesome power,
which a government is supposed to provide. (Phil. Guaranty Co., Inc. the power of taxation is subject to certain limitations. Most of these
vs Commissioner of Internal Revenue, 13 SCRA 775). limitations are specifically provided in the Constitution or implied
therefrom while the rest are inherent and they are those which spring
2. The Benefits-Protection Theory from the nature of the taxing power itself although, they may or may
The basis of taxation is the reciprocal duty of protection not be provided in the Constitution.
between the state and its inhabitants. In return for the contributions,
the taxpayer receives the general advantages and protection which
the government affords the taxpayer and his property. Scope of Legislative Taxing Power [S2 A P K A M]

1. subjects of Taxation (the persons, property or occupation etc.

Qualifications of the Benefit-Protection Theory: to be taxed)
2. amount or rate of the tax
a. It does not mean that only those who are able to pay and do 3. purposes for which taxes shall be levied provided they are
pay taxes can enjoy the privileges and protection given to a citizen by public purposes
the government. 4. apportionment of the tax
b. From the contributions received, the government renders no 5. situs of taxation
special or commensurate benefit to any particular property or person. 6. method of collection
c. The only benefit to which the taxpayer is entitled is that derived
from his enjoyment of the privileges of living in an organized society Is the Power to Tax the Power to Destroy?
established and safeguarded by the devotion of taxes to public
purposes. (Gomez vs Palomar, 25 SCRA 829) In the case of Churchill, et al. vs Concepcion (34 Phil 969)
d. A taxpayer cannot object to or resist the payment of taxes it has been ruled that:
solely because no personal benefit to him can be pointed out as The power to impose taxes is one so unlimited in force and
arising from the tax. (Lorenzo vs Posadas, 64 Phil 353) so searching in extent so that the courts scarcely venture to declare
that it is subject to any restriction whatever, except such as rest in the
3. Lifeblood Theory discretion of the authority which exercise it. No attribute of
Taxes are the lifeblood of the government, being such, their sovereignty is more pervading, and at no point does the power of
prompt and certain availability is an imperious need. (Collector of government affect more constantly and intimately all the relations of
Internal Revenue vs. Goodrich International Rubber Co., Sept. 6, life than through the exaction made under it.
1965) Without taxes, the government would be paralyzed for lack of And in the notable case of McCulloch vs Maryland, Chief
motive power to activate and operate it. Justice Marshall laid down the rule that the power to tax involves
the power to destroy .
According to an authority, the above principle is pertinent
Nature of Taxing Power only when there is no power to tax a particular subject and has no
relation to a case where such right to tax exists. This opt-quoted
1. Inherent in sovereignty The power of taxation is inherent in maxim instead of being regarded as a blanket authorization of the
sovereignty as an incident or attribute thereof, being essential to the unrestrained use of the taxing power for any and all purposes,
existence of every government. It can be exercised by the irrespective of revenue, is more reasonably construed as an
government even if the Constitution is entirely silent on the subject. epigrammatic statement of the political and economic axiom that
a. Constitutional provisions relating to the power of taxation do since the financial needs of a state or nation may outrun any human
not operate as grants of the power to the government. They merely calculation, so the power to meet those needs by taxation must not
constitute limitations upon a power which would otherwise be be limited even though the taxes become burdensome or
practically without limit. confiscatory. To say that the power to tax is the power to destroy is
b. While the power to tax is not expressly provided for in our to describe not the purposes for which the taxing power may be used
constitutions, its existence is recognized by the provisions relating to but the degree of vigor with which the taxing power may be employed
taxation. in order to raise revenue (I Cooley 179-181)
In the case of Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority
vs Marcos, Sept. 11, 1996, as an incident of sovereignty, the power Constitutional Restraints Re: Taxation is the Power to
to tax has been described as unlimited in its range, acknowledging Destroy
in its very nature no limits, so that security against its abuse is to be While taxation is said to be the power to destroy, it is by no
found only in the responsibility of the legislative which imposes the means unlimited. It is equally correct to postulate that the power to
tax on the constituency who are to pay it. tax is not the power to destroy while the Supreme Court sits ,
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because of the constitutional restraints placed on a taxing power that 3. Theoretical Justice the tax burden should be in proportion to
violated fundamental rights. the taxpayers ability to pay (ability-to-pay principle). The 1987
In the case of Roxas, et al vs CTA (April 26, 1968) , the SC Constitution requires taxation to be equitable and uniform.
reminds us that although the power of taxation is sometimes called
the power to destroy, in order to maintain the general publics trust
and confidence in the Government, this power must be used justly II. Classifications and Distinction
and not treacherously. The Supreme Court held:
The power of taxation is sometimes called also the power Classification of Taxes
to destroy. Therefore it should be exercised with caution to minimize
injury to the proprietary rights of a taxpayer. It must be exercised A. As to Subject matter
fairly, equally and uniformly, lest the tax collector kill the hen that
lays the golden egg. And, in order to maintain the general public 1. Personal, capitation or poll taxes taxes of fixed amount
trust and confidence in the Government this power must be used upon all persons of a certain class within the jurisdiction of the taxing
justly and not treacherously. power without regard to the amount of their property or occupations
The doctrine seeks to describe, in an extreme, the or businesses in which they may be engaged in.
consequential nature of taxation and its resulting implications, to wit: example: community tax
a. The power to tax must be exercised with caution to minimize
injury to proprietary rights of a taxpayer; 2. Property Taxes taxes on things or property of a certain class
b. If the tax is lawful and not violative of any of the inherent and within the jurisdiction of the taxing power.
constitutional limitations, the fact alone that it may destroy an activity example: real estate tax
or object of taxation will not entirely permit the courts to afford any
relief; and 3. Excise Taxes charges imposed upon the performance of an
c. A subject or object that may not be destroyed by the taxing act, the enjoyment of a privilege, or the engaging in an occupation.
authority may not likewise be taxed. (e.g. exercise of a constitutional examples: income tax, value-added tax, estate tax or
right) donors tax

Power of Judicial Review in Taxation

The courts cannot review the wisdom or advisability or B. As to Burden
expediency of a tax. The courts power is limited only to the
application and interpretation of the law. 1. Direct Taxes taxes wherein both the incidence as well as the
Judicial action is limited only to review where involves: impact or burden of the tax faces on one person.
1. The determination of validity on the tax in relation to examples: income tax, community tax, donors tax, estate
constitutional precepts or provisions. tax
2. The determination, in an appropriate case, of the application of
the law. 2. Indirect Taxes taxes wherein the incidence of or the liability
for the payment of the tax falls on one person, but the burden thereof
can be shifted or passed to another person.
Aspects of Taxation examples: VAT, percentage taxes, customs duties excise
1. Levy determination of the persons, property or excises to be taxes on certain specific goods
taxed, the sum or sums to be raised, the due date thereof and the
time and manner of levying and collecting taxes (strictly speaking, Important Points to Consider regarding Indirect
such refers to taxation) Taxes:
1. When the consumer or end-user of a manufacturer product is
2. Collection consists of the manner of enforcement of the tax-exempt, such exemption covers only those taxes for which such
obligation on the part of those who are taxed. (this includes payment consumer or end-user is directly liable. Indirect taxes are not
by the taxpayer and is referred to as tax administration) included. Hence, the manufacturer cannot claim exemption from the
The two processes together constitute the taxation payment of sales tax, neither can the consumer or buyer of the
system. product demand the refund of the tax that the manufacturer might
have passed on to him. (Phil. Acetylene Co. inc. vs Commissioner of
Basic Principles of a Sound Tax System [FAT] Internal Revenue et. al., L-19707, Aug.17, 1987)
1. Fiscal Adequacy the sources of tax revenue should coincide
with, and approximate the needs of government expenditure. Neither 2. When the transaction itself is the one that is tax-exempt but
an excess nor a deficiency of revenue vis--vis the needs of through error the seller pays the tax and shifts the same to the buyer,
government would be in keeping with the principle. the seller gets the refund, but must hold it in trust for buyer.
(American Rubber Co. case, L-10963, April 30, 1963)
2. Administrative Feasibility tax laws should be capable of
convenient, just and effective administration. 3. Where the exemption from indirect tax is given to the contractee,
but the evident intention is to exempt the contractor so that such
contractor may no longer shift or pass on any tax to the contractee,
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the contractor may claim tax exemption on the transaction examples: national internal revenue taxes, customs duties
(Commissioner of Internal Revenue vs John Gotamco and Sons,
Inc., et.al., L-31092, Feb. 27, 1987) 2. Municipal/Local Tax tax imposed by Local Government units.
examples: real estate tax, professional tax
4. When the law granting tax exemption specifically includes
indirect taxes or when it is clearly manifest therein that legislative Regressive System of Taxation vis--vis Regressive
intention to exempt embraces indirect taxes, then the buyer of the Tax
product or service sold has a right to be reimbursed the amount of A regressive tax, must not be confused with regressive
the taxes that the sellers passed on to him. (Maceda vs system of taxation.
Macaraig,supra) Regressive Tax: tax the rate of which decreases as the
tax base increases.
Regressive System of Taxation: focuses on indirect
C. As to Purpose taxes, it exists when there are more indirect taxes imposed than
direct taxes.
1. General/Fiscal/Revenue tax imposed for the general
purposes of the government, i.e., to raise revenues for governmental Taxes distinguished from other Impositions
needs.
Examples: income taxes, VAT, and almost all taxes a. Toll vs Tax
Toll sum of money for the use of something, generally
2. Special/Regulatory tax imposed for special purposes, i.e., to applied to the consideration which is paid for the use of a road,
achieve some social or economic needs. bridge of the like, of a public nature.
Examples: educational fund tax under Real Property
Taxation
Tax vs Toll
D. As to Measure of Application 1. demand of sovereignty 1. demand of proprietorship
2. paid for the support of the 2. paid for the use of anothers
1. Specific Tax tax imposed per head, unit or number, or by government property
some standard of weight or measurement and which requires no 3. generally, no limit as to 3. amount depends on the cost
assessment beyond a listing and classification of the subjects to be amount imposed of construction or maintenance
taxed. of the public improvement used
Examples: taxes on distilled spirits, wines, and fermented 4. imposed only by the 4. imposed by the government
liquors government or private individuals or entities
2. Ad Valorem Tax tax based on the value of the article or thing b. Penalty vs Tax
subject to tax. Penalty any sanctions imposed as a punishment for
example: real property taxes, customs duties violations of law or acts deemed injurious.
E. As to Date Tax vs Penalty
1. generally intended to raise 1. designed to regulate conduct
1. Progressive Tax the rate or the amount of the tax increases revenue
as the amount of the income or earning (tax base) to be taxed
2. imposed only by the 2. imposed by the government
increases.
government or private individuals or entities
examples: income tax, estate tax, donors tax
c. Special Assessment vs Tax
2. Regressive Tax the tax rate decreases as the amount of
Special Assessment an enforced proportional
income or earning (tax base) to be taxed increases.
contribution from owners of lands especially or peculiarly benefited
Note: We have no regressive taxes (this is according to De
by public improvements.
Leon)
Tax vs Special Assessment
3. Mixed Tax tax rates are partly progressive and partly
regressive. 1. imposed on persons, 1. levied only on land
property and excise
4. Proportionate Tax tax rates are fixed on a flat tax base. 2. personal liability of the 2. not a personal liability of the
examples: real estate tax, VAT, and other percentage taxes person assessed person assessed, i.e. his liability
is limited only to the land
involved
F. As to Scope or authority imposing the tax 3. based on necessity as well 3. based wholly on benefits
as on benefits received
1. National Tax tax imposed by the National Government. 4. general application (see 4. exceptional both as time and
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Apostolic Prefect vs Treas. Of place revenue is also obtained does not make the imposition of a tax. (see
Baguio, 71 Phil 547) Progressive Development Corp. vs Quezon City, 172 SCRA 629)

Important Points to Consider Regarding Special e. Debt vs Tax

Assessments: Debt is based upon juridical tie, created by law, contracts,
1. Since special assessments are not taxes within the constitutional delicts or quasi-delicts between parties for their private interest or
or statutory provisions on tax exemptions, it follows that the resulting from their own acts or omissions.
exemption under Sec. 28(3), Art. VI of the Constitution does not
apply to special assessments. Tax vs Debt
2. However, in view of the exempting proviso in Sec. 234 of the 1. based on law 1. based on contracts, express
Local Government Code, properties which are actually, directly and or implied
exclusively used for religious, charitable and educational purposes 2. generally, cannot be 2. assignable
are not exactly exempt from real property taxes but are exempt from assigned
the imposition of special assessments as well.( see Aban) 3. generally payable in money 3. may be paid in kind
3 .The general rule is that an exemption from taxation does not 4. generally not subject to set- 4. may be subject to set-off or
include exemption from special assessment. off or compensation compensation
5. imprisonment is a sanction 5. no imprisonment for non-
d. License or Permit Fee vs Tax for non-payment of tax except payment of debt
License or Permit fee is a charge imposed under the poll tax
police power for the purposes of regulation. 6. governed by special 6. governed by the ordinary
prescriptive periods provided for periods of prescriptions
Tax vs License/Permit Fee in the Tax Code
1. enforced contribution 1. legal compensation or 7. does not draw interest 7. draws interest when so
assessed by sovereign authority reward of an officer for specific except only when delinquent stipulated, or in case of default
to defray public expenses purposes
2. for revenue purposes 2. for regulation purposes General Rule: Taxes are not subject to set-off or legal
3. an exercise of the taxing 3. an exercise of the police compensation. The government and the taxpayer are not creditors
power power and debtors or each other. Obligations in the nature of debts are due
4. generally no limit in the 4. amount is limited to the to the government in its corporate capacity, while taxes are due to the
amount of tax to be paid necessary expenses of government in its sovereign capacity ( Philex Mining Corp. vs CIR,
inspection and regulation 294 SCRA 687; Republic vs Mambulao Lumber Co., 6 SCRA 622)
5. imposed also on persons 5. imposed on the right to
and property exercise privilege Exception: Where both the claims of the government and the
6. non-payment does not 6. non-payment makes the act taxpayer against each other have already become due and
necessarily make the act or or business illegal demandable as well as fully liquated. (see Domingo vs Garlitos, L-
business illegal 18904, June 29, 1963)

Three kinds of licenses are recognized in the law:

1. Licenses for the regulation of useful occupations.
2. Licenses for the regulation or restriction of non-useful Pertinent Case:
occupations or enterprises
3. Licenses for revenue only Philex Mining Corp. vs Commissioner of Internal Revenue
G.R. No. 125704, Aug. 28, 1998

Importance of the distinctions between tax and The Supreme Court held that: We have consistently ruled
license fee: that there can be no offsetting of taxes against the claims that the
1. Some limitations apply only to one and not to the other, and that taxpayer may have against the government. A person cannot refuse
exemption from taxes may not include exemption from license fees. to pay a tax on the ground that the government owes him an amount
2. The power to regulate as an exercise of police power does not equal to or greater than the tax being collected. The collection of a
include the power to impose fees for revenue purposes. (see tax cannot await the results of a lawsuit against the government.
American Mail Line vs City of Butuan, L-12647, May 31, 1967 and
related cases) f. Tax Distinguished from other Terms.
3. An extraction, however, maybe considered both a tax and a
license fee. 1. Subsidy a pecuniary aid directly granted by the government to
4. But a tax may have only a regulatory purpose. an individual or private commercial enterprise deemed beneficial to
5. The general rule is that the imposition is a tax if its primary the public.
purpose is to generate revenue and regulation is merely incidental;
but if regulation is the primary purpose, the fact that incidentally
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2. Revenue refers to all the funds or income derived by the NON-IMPAIRMENT OF CONTRACTS
government, whether from tax or from whatever source and whatever - the impairment - contract may be - contracts may be
manner. rule subsist impaired impaired
TRANSFER OF PROPERTY RIGHTS
3. Customs Duties taxes imposed on goods exported from or - taxes paid - no transfer but - property is taken by
imported into a country. The term taxes is broader in scope as it become part of only restraint on the govt upon
includes customs duties. public funds the exercise of payment of just
property right compensation
4. Tariff it may be used in 3 senses: exists
a. As a book of rates drawn usually in alphabetical order SCOPE
containing the names of several kinds of merchandise with the - affects all - affects all - affects only the
corresponding duties to be paid for the same. persons, persons, particular property
b. As duties payable on goods imported or exported (PD No. 230) property and property, comprehended
c. As the system or principle of imposing duties on the excise privileges, and
importation/exportation of goods. even rights
BASIS
5. Internal Revenue refers to taxes imposed by the legislative - public - public necessity -public necessity,
other than duties or imports and exports. necessity and the right of private property is
the state and the taken for public use
6. Margin Fee a currency measure designed to stabilize the public to self-
currency. protection and
self-preservation
7. Tribute synonymous with tax; taxation implies tribute from the AUTHORITY WHICH EXERCISES THE POWER
governed to some form of sovereignty. - only by the - only by the - may be granted to
government or government or its public service,
8. Impost in its general sense, it signifies any tax, tribute or duty. its political political companies, or public
In its limited sense, it means a duty on imported goods and subdivisions subdivisions utilities
merchandise.
III. Limitations on the Power of Taxation
Inherent Powers of the State
Limitations, Classified
1. Police Power
2. Power of Eminent Domain
a. Inherent Limitations or those which restrict the power
3. Power of Taxation
although they are not embodied in the Constitution [P N I T E]
Distinctions among the Three Powers
1. Public Purpose of Taxes
2. Non-delegability of the Taxing Power
Taxation Police Power Eminent Domain 3. Territoriality or the Situs of Taxation
PURPOSE 4. Exemption of the Government from taxes
- levied for the - exercised to - taking of property for 5. International Comity
purpose of promote public public use
raising revenue welfare thru b. Constitutional Limitations or those expressly found in the
regulations constitution or implied from its provision
AMOUNT OF EXACTION
- no limit - limited to the - no exaction, 1. Due process of law
cost of compensation paid by 2. Equal protection of law
regulations, the government 3. Freedom of Speech and of the press
issuance of the 4. Non-infringement of religious freedom
license or 5. Non-impairment of contracts
surveillance 6. Non-imprisonment for debt or non-payment of poll tax
BENEFITS RECEIVED 7. Origin of Appropriation, Revenue and Tariff Bills
- no special or - no direct - direct benefit results 8. Uniformity, Equitability and Progressitivity of Taxation
direct benefits benefits but a in the form of just 9. Delegation of Legislative Authority to Fx Tariff Rates, Import and
received but the healthy economic compensation Export Quotas
enjoyment of standard of 10. Tax Exemption of Properties Actually, Directly, and Exclusively
the privileges of society or used for Religious Charitable
living in an damnum 11. Voting requirements in connection with the Legislative Grant of
organized absque injuria is Tax Exemption
society attained 12. Non-impairment of the Supreme Courts jurisdiction in Tax Cases
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13. Tax exemption of Revenues and Assets, including Grants, b. Administrative Feasibility tax laws should be capable of
Endowments, Donations or Contributions to Education Institutions convenient, just and effective administration.

c. Other Constitutional Provisions related to Taxation c. Theoretical Justice the tax burden should be in proportion to
the taxpayers ability to pay (ability-to-pay principle). The 1987
1. Subject and Title of Bills Constitution requires taxation to be equitable and uniform.
2. Power of the President to Veto an items in an Appropriation,
Revenue or Tariff Bill
3. Necessity of an Appropriation made before money B. Non-delegability of Taxing Power
4. Appropriation of Public Money
5. Taxes Levied for Special Purposes 1. Rationale: Doctrine of Separation of Powers; Taxation is
6. Allotment to LGC purely legislative, Congress cannot delegate
the power to others.
Inherent Limitations
2. Exceptions:
A. Public Purpose of Taxes a. Delegation to the President (Art.VI. Sec. 28(2) 1987
1. Important Points to Consider: Constitution)
a. If taxation is for a public purpose, the tax must be used: The power granted to Congress under this constitutional
a.1) for the support of the state or provision to authorize the President to fix within specified limits and
a.2) for some recognized objects of governments or subject to such limitations and restrictions as it may impose, tariff
a.3) directly to promote the welfare of the community rates and other duties and imposts include tariffs rates even for
(taxation as an implement of police power) revenue purposes only. Customs duties which are assessed at the
prescribed tariff rates are very much like taxes which are frequently
b. The term public purpose is synonymous with imposed for both revenue-raising and regulatory purposes (Garcia vs
governmental purpose; a purpose affecting the inhabitants of the Executive Secretary, et. al., G.R. No. 101273, July 3, 1992)
state or taxing district as a community and not merely as individuals.
b. Delegations to the Local Government (Art. X. Sec. 5,
c. A tax levied for a private purpose constitutes a taking of 1987 Constitution)
property without due process of law. It has been held that the general principle against the
delegation of legislative powers as a consequence of the theory of
d. The purposes to be accomplished by taxation need not be separation of powers is subject to one well-established exception,
exclusively public. Although private individuals are directly benefited, namely, that legislative power may be delegated to local
the tax would still be valid provided such benefit is only incidental. governments. The theory of non-delegation of legislative powers
does not apply in maters of local concern. (Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. of
e. The test is not as to who receives the money, but the the Phil, Inc. vs City of Butuan, et . al., L-22814, Aug. 28, 1968)
character of the purpose for which it is expended; not the immediate
result of the expenditure but rather the ultimate. c. Delegation to Administrative Agencies with respect to
aspects of Taxation not legislative in character.
g. In the imposition of taxes, public purpose is presumed. example: assessment and collection

3. Limitations on Delegation
2. Test in determining Public Purposes in tax
a. It shall not contravene any Constitutional provisions or
a. Duty Test whether the thing to be threatened by the inherent limitations of taxation;
appropriation of public revenue is something which is the duty of the b. The delegation is effected either by the Constitution or
State, as a government. by validly enacted legislative measures or statute; and
c. The delegated levy power, except when the delegation is
b. Promotion of General Welfare Test whether the law providing by an express provision of Constitution itself, should only be in favor
the tax directly promotes the welfare of the community in equal of the local legislative body of the local or municipal government
measure. concerned.

4. Tax Legislation vis--vis Tax Administration - Every

Basic Principles of a Sound Tax System (FAT) system of taxation consists of two parts:
a. the elements that enter into the imposition of the tax [S 2
a. Fiscal Adequacy the sources of tax revenue should coincide A P K A M], or tax regulation; and
with, and approximate the needs of government expenditure. Neither b. the steps taken for its assessment and collection or tax
an excess nor a deficiency of revenue vis--vis the needs of administration
government would be in keeping with the principle.
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If what is delegated is tax legislation, the delegation is

invalid; but if what is involved is only tax administration, the non- 1. Important Points to Consider:
delegability rule is not violated. a. The property of a foreign state or government may not be
taxed by another.

C. Territoriality or Situs of Taxation b. The grounds for the above rule are:
b.1) sovereign equality among states
1. Important Points to Consider: b.2) usage among states that when one enter into the
a. Territoriality or Situs of Taxation means place of taxation territory of another, there is an implied understanding that the power
depending on the nature of taxes being imposed. does not intend to degrade its dignity by placing itself under the
b. It is an inherent mandate that taxation shall only be jurisdiction of the latter
exercised on persons, properties, and excise within the territory of b.3) foreign government may not be sued without its
the taxing power because: consent so that it is useless to assess the tax since it cannot be
b.1) Tax laws do not operate beyond a countrys territorial collected
limit. b.4) reciprocity among states
b.2) Property which is wholly and exclusively within the
jurisdiction of another state receives none of the protection Constitutional Limitations
for which a tax is supposed to be compensation.
1. Due Process of Law
c. However, the fundamental basis of the right to tax is the
capacity of the government to provide benefits and protection a. Basis: Sec. 1 Art. 3 No person shall be deprived of life,
to the object of the tax. A person may be taxed, even if he is liberty or property without due process of law x x x.
outside the taxing state, where there is between him and the
taxing state, a privity of relationship justifying the levy. Requisites :
1. The interest of the public generally as
2. Factors to Consider in determining Situs of Taxation distinguished from those of a particular class require the intervention
a. kind and Classification of the Tax of the state;
b. location of the subject matter of the tax 2. The means employed must be reasonably
c. domicile or residence of the person necessary to the accomplishment for the purpose and not unduly
d. citizenship of the person oppressive;
e. source of income 3. The deprivation was done under the authority of
f. place where the privilege, business or occupation is being a valid law or of the constitution; and
exercised 4. The deprivation was done after compliance with
fair and reasonable method of procedure prescribed by law.
In a string of cases, the Supreme Court held that in
D. Exemption of the Government from Taxes order that due process of law must not be done in an arbitrary,
despotic, capricious, or whimsical manner.
1. Important Points to Consider:
Reasons for Exemptions: 2. Equal Protection of the Law
a.1) To levy tax upon public property would render
necessary new taxes on other public property for the a. Basis: Sec.1 Art. 3 xxx Nor shall any person be denied
payment of the tax so laid and thus, the government would the equal protection of the laws.
be taxing itself to raise money to pay over to itself; Important Points to Consider:
a.2) In order that the functions of the government shall not 1. Equal protection of the laws signifies that all
be unduly impede; and persons subject to legislation shall be treated under circumstances
a.3) To reduce the amount of money that has to be handed and conditions both in the privileges conferred and liabilities imposed
by the government in the course of its operations. 2. This doctrine prohibits class legislation which
2. Unless otherwise provided by law, the exemption applies discriminates against some and favors others.
only to government entities through which the government
immediately and directly exercises its sovereign powers b. Requisites for a Valid Classification
(Infantry Post Exchange vs Posadas, 54 Phil 866) 1. Must not be arbitrary
3. Notwithstanding the immunity, the government may tax itself 2. Must not be based upon substantial distinctions
in the absence of any constitutional limitations. 3. Must be germane to the purpose of law.
4. Government-owned or controlled corporations, when 4. Must not be limited to exiting conditions only; and
performing proprietary functions are generally subject to tax in 5. Must play equally to all members of a class.
the absence of tax exemption provisions in their charters or
law creating them. 3. Uniformity, Equitability and Progressivity of Taxation

E. International Comity
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a. Basis: Sec. 28(1) Art. VI. The rule of taxation shall be 2. The non-impairment rule, however, does not apply to
uniform and equitable. The Congress shall evolve a public utility franchise since a franchise is subject to amendment,
progressive system of taxation. alteration or repeal by the Congress when the public interest so
b. Important Points to Consider: requires.
1. Uniformity (equality or equal protection of the laws)
means all taxable articles or kinds or property of the same class shall
be taxed at the same rate. A tax is uniform when the same force and 7. Non-imprisonment for non-payment of poll tax
effect in every place where the subject of it is found.
2. Equitable means fair, just, reasonable and a. Basis: Sec. 20 Art. III. No person shall be imprisoned for
proportionate to ones ability to pay. debt or non-payment of poll tax.
3. Progressive system of Taxation places stress on b. Important Points to Consider:
direct rather than indirect taxes, or on the taxpayers ability to pay 1. The only penalty for delinquency in payment is
4. Inequality which results in singling out one particular the payment of surcharge in the form of interest at the rate of 24%
class for taxation or exemption infringes no constitutional limitation. per annum which shall be added to the unpaid amount from due date
(see Commissioner vs. Lingayen Gulf Electric, 164 SCRA 27) until it is paid. (Sec. 161, LGC)
5. The rule of uniformity does not call for perfect 2. The prohibition is against imprisonment for
uniformity or perfect equality, because this is hardly attainable. non-payment of poll tax. Thus, a person is subject to imprisonment
for violation of the community tax law other than for non-payment of
4. Freedom of Speech and of the Press the tax and for non-payment of other taxes as prescribed by law.

a. Basis: Sec. 4 Art. III. No law shall be passed abridging the 8. Origin or Revenue, Appropriation and Tariff Bills
freedom of speech, of expression or of the pressx x x
b. Important Points to Consider: a. Basis: Sec. 24 Art. VI. All appropriation, revenue or tariff
1. There is curtailment of press freedom and bills, bill authorizing increase of the public debt, bills of local
freedom of thought if a tax is levied in order to suppress the basic application, and private bills shall originate exclusively in the
right of the people under the Constitution. House of Representatives, but the Senate may propose or
2. A business license may not be required for the concur with amendments.
sale or contribution of printed materials like newspaper for such b. Under the above provision, the Senators power is not only
would be imposing a prior restraint on press freedom to only concur with amendments but also to propose
3. However, an annual registration fee on all amendments. (Tolentino vs Sec. of Finance, supra)
persons subject to the value-added tax does not constitute a restraint
on press freedom since it is not imposed for the exercise of a 9. Delegation of Legislative Authority to Fix Tariff Rates,
privilege but only for the purpose of defraying part of cost of Imports and Export Quotas
registration.
a. Basis: Sec. 28(2) Art. VI x x x The Congress may, by law,
5. Non-infringement of Religious Freedom authorize the President to fix within specified limits, and subject
to such limitations and restrictions as it may impose, tariff rates,
a. Basis: Sec. 5 Art. III. No law shall be made respecting an import and export quotas, tonnage and wharfage dues, and
establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise other duties or imposts within the framework of the national
thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious development program of the government.
profession and worship, without discrimination or preference,
shall be forever be allowed. x x x 10. Tax Exemption of Properties Actually, Directly and
b. Important Points to Consider: Exclusively used for Religious, Charitable and Educational
1. License fees/taxes would constitute a restraint on the Purposes
freedom of worship as they are actually in the nature of a condition or
permit of the exercise of the right. a. Basis: Sec. 28(3) Art. VI. Charitable institutions, churches
2. However, the Constitution or the Free Exercise of and parsonages or convents appurtenant thereto, mosques,
Religion clause does not prohibit imposing a generally applicable non-profit cemeteries, and all lands, building, and
sales and use tax on the sale of religious materials by a religious improvements actually, directly and exclusively used for
organization. (see Tolentino vs Secretary of Finance, 235 SCRA 630) religious, charitable or educational purposes shall be exempt
from taxation.
6. Non-impairment of Contracts b. Important Points to Consider:
1. Lest of the tax exemption: the use and not
a. Basis: Sec. 10 Art. III. No law impairing the obligation of ownership of the property
contract shall be passed. 2. To be tax-exempt, the property must be actually,
b. Important Points to Consider: directly and exclusively used for the purposes mentioned.
1. A law which changes the terms of the contract by 3. The word exclusively means primarily.
making new conditions, or changing those in the contract, or
dispenses with those expressed, impairs the obligation.
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4. The exemption is not limited to property actually c. Department of Finance Order No. 137-87, dated Dec.
indispensable but extends to facilities which are incidental to and 16, 1987
reasonably necessary for the accomplishment of said purposes.
5. The constitutional exemption applies only to The following are some of the highlights of the DOF order
property tax. governing the tax exemption of non-stock, non-profit educational
6. However, it would seem that under existing law, institutions:
gifts made in favor or religious charitable and educational 1. The tax exemption is not only limited to revenues and
organizations would nevertheless qualify for donors gift tax assets derived from strictly school operations like income from tuition
exemption. (Sec. 101(9)(3), NIRC) and other miscellaneous feed such as matriculation, library, ROTC,
etc. fees, but it also extends to incidental income derived from
11. Voting Requirements in connection with the Legislative canteen, bookstore and dormitory facilities.
Grant for tax exemption 2. In the case, however, of incidental income, the facilities
mentioned must not only be owned and operated by the school itself
a. Basis: Sec. 28(4) Art. VI. No law granting any tax but such facilities must be located inside the school campus.
exemption shall be passed without the concurrence of a Canteens operated by mere concessionaires are taxable.
majority of all the members of the Congress. 3. Income which is unrelated to school operations like income
b. The above provision requires the concurrence of a majority from bank deposits, trust fund and similar arrangements, royalties,
not of attendees constituting a quorum but of all members of dividends and rental income are taxable.
the Congress. 4. The use of the schools income or assets must be in
consonance with the purposes for which the school is created; in
12. Non-impairment of the Supreme Courts jurisdiction in short, use must be school-related, like the grant of scholarships,
Tax Cases faculty development, and establishment of professional chairs,
school building expansion, library and school facilities.
a. Basis: Sec. 5 (2) Art. VIII. The Congress shall have the
power to define, prescribe, and apportion the jurisdiction of the
various courts but may not deprive the Supreme Court of its Other Constitutional Provisions related to Taxation
jurisdiction over cases enumerated in Sec. 5 hereof.
Sec. 5 (2b) Art. VIII. The Supreme Court shall have 1. Subject and Title of Bills (Sec. 26(1) 1987 Constitution)
the following powers: x x x(2) Review, revise, modify or affirm
on appeal or certiorari x x x final judgments and orders of lower Every Bill passed by Congress shall embrace only
courts in x x x all cases involving the legality of any tax, impost, one subject which shall be expressed in the title thereof.
assessment, or toll or any penalty imposed in relation thereto.
in the Tolentino E-VAT case, supra, the E-vat, or the
13. Tax Exemptions of Revenues and Assets, including Expanded Value Added Tax Law (RA 7716) was also questioned
grants, endowments, donations or contributions to Educational on the ground that the constitutional requirement on the title of a
Institutions bill was not followed.

a. Basis: Sec. 4(4) Art. XIV. Subject to the conditions 2. Power of the President to Veto items in an
prescribed by law, all grants, endowments, donations or Appropriation, Revenue or Tariff Bill (Sec. 27(2), Art. VI of the
contributions used actually, directly and exclusively for 1987 Constitution)
educational purposes shall be exempt from tax.
b. Important Points to Consider: The President shall have the power to veto any
1. The exemption granted to non-stock, non-profit educational particular item or items in an Appropriation, Revenue or Tariff bill but
institution covers income, property, and donors taxes, and custom the veto shall not affect the item or items to which he does not
duties. object.
2. To be exempt from tax or duty, the revenue, assets, property
or donation must be used actually, directly and exclusively for 3. Necessity of an Appropriation made before money may
educational purpose. be paid out of the Treasury (Sec. 29(1), Art. VI of the 1987
3. In the case or religious and charitable entities and non-profit Constitution)
cemeteries, the exemption is limited to property tax.
4. The said constitutional provision granting tax exemption to No money shall be paid out of the Treasury except in
non-stock, non-profit educational institution is self-executing. pursuance of an appropriation made by law.
5. Tax exemptions, however, of proprietary (for profit)
educational institutions require prior legislative implementation. Their 4. Appropriation of Public Money for the benefit of any
tax exemption is not self-executing. Church, Sect, or System of Religion (Sec. 29(2), Art. VI of the
6. Lands, Buildings, and improvements actually, directly, and 1987 Constitution)
exclusively used for educational purposed are exempt from property
tax, whether the educational institution is proprietary or non-profit. No public money or property shall be appropriated,
applied, paid or employed, directly or indirectly for the use, benefit,
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support of any sect, church, denomination, sectarian institution, or of taxation of personalty in the place where it has its actual situs and
system of religion or of any priest, preacher, minister, or other the requisite legislative jurisdiction exists.
religious teacher or dignitary as such except when such priest,
preacher, minister or dignitary is assigned to the armed forces or to Example: shares of stock may have situs for purposes of
any penal institution, or government orphanage or leprosarium. taxation in a state in which they are permanently kept regardless of
the domicile of the owner, or the state in which he corporation is
5. Taxes levied for Special Purpose (Sec. 29(3), Art. VI of organized.
the 1987 Constitution)

All money collected or any tax levied for a special 3. Legislative Power to Fix Situs
purpose shall be treated as a special fund and paid out for such If no constitutional provisions are violated, the power of the
purpose only. It the purpose for which a special fund was created has legislative to fix situs is undoubted.
been fulfilled or abandoned the balance, if any, shall be transferred to
the general funds of the government. Example: our law fixes the situs of intangible personal
property for purposes of the estate and gift taxes. (see Sec. 104,
An example is the Oil Price Stabilization Fund created under 1997 NIRC)
P.D. 1956 to stabilize the prices of imported crude oil. In a decide
case, it was held that where under an executive order of the Note: In those cases where the situs for certain intangibles
President, this special fund is transferred from the general fund to are not categorically spelled out, there is room for applying the
a trust liability account, the constitutional mandate is not mobilia rule.
violated. The OPSF, according to the court, remains as a special
fund subject to COA audit ( Osmea vs Orbos, et al., G.R. No. 4. Double Taxation and the Situs Limitation (see later topic)
99886, Mar. 31, 1993)
Criteria in Fixing Tax Situs of Subject of Taxation
6. Allotment to Local Governments
Basis: Sec. 6, Art. X of the 1987 Constitution a. Persons Poll tax may be levied upon persons who are
Local Government units shall have a just share, as residents of the State.
determined by law, in the national taxes which shall be b. Real Property is subject to taxation in the State in which
automatically released to them. it is located whether the owner is a resident or non-resident, and is
taxable only there.
Rule of Lex Rei Sitae
c. Tangible Personal property taxable in the state where it
IV. Situs of Taxation and Double Taxation has actual situs where it is physically located. Although the owner
resides in another jurisdiction.
Situs of Taxation
Rule of Lex Rei Sitae
1. Situs of Taxation literally means the Place of Taxation.
2. Basic Rule state where the subject to be taxed has a situs d. Intangible Personal Property situs or personal property
may rightfully levy and collect the tax is the domicile of the owner, in accordance with the principle
MOBILIA SEQUUNTUR PERSONAM, said principle, however, is
Some Basic Considerations Affecting Situs of Taxation not controlling when it is inconsistent with express provisions of
1. Protection statute or when justice demands that it should be, as where the
A legal situs cannot be given to property for the purpose of property has in fact a situs elsewhere. (see Wells Fargo Bank v.
taxation where neither the property nor the person is within the Collector 70 PHIL 325; Collector v. Fisher L-11622, January, 1961)
protection of the taxing state
In the case of Manila Electric Co. vs Yatco (69 Phil 89) , the e. Income properly exacted from persons who are residents
Supreme Court ruled that insurance premium paid on a fire insurance or citizens in the taxing jurisdiction and even those who are neither
policy covering property situated in the Phils. are taxable in the Phils. residents nor citizens provided the income is derived from sources
Even though the fire insurance contract was executed outside the within the taxing state.
Phils. and the insurance policy is delivered to the insured therein.
This is because the Philippines Government must get something in f. Business, Occupation, and Transaction power to levy
return for the protection it gives to the insured property in the Phils. an excise tax depends upon the place where the business is done, of
and by reason of such protection, the insurer is benefited thereby. the occupation is engaged in of the transaction not place.

2. The maxim of Mobilia Sequuntur Personam and Situs

of Taxation g. Gratuitous Transfer of Property transmission of
According to this maxim, which means movable follow the property from donor to donee, or from a decedent to his heirs may be
person, the situs of personal property is the domicile of the owner. subject to taxation in the state where the transferor was a citizen or
This is merely a fiction of law and is not allowed to stand in the way resident, or where the property is located.
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2. Tax Credit an amount subtracted from an individuals or

V. Multiplicity of Situs entitys tax liability to arrive at the total tax liability

There is multiplicity of situs when the same subject of A deduction differ from a tax credit in that a deduction
taxation, like income or intangible, is subject to taxation in several reduces taxable income while credit reduces tax liability
taxing jurisdictions. This happens due to:
a. Variance in the concept of domicile for tax purposes; 3. Exemptions
b. Multiple distinct relationship that may arise with respect to 4. Treaties with other States
intangible personality; and 5. Principle of Reciprocity
c. The use to which the property may have been devoted, all
of which may receive the protection of the laws of jurisdiction other Constitutionality
than the domicile of the owner Double Taxation in its stricter sense is undoubtedly
unconstitutional but that in the broader sense is not necessarily so.
Remedy taxation jurisdiction may provide: General Rule: Our Constitution does not prohibit double taxation;
a. Exemption or allowance of deductions or tax credit for hence, it may not be invoked as a defense against the validity of tax
foreign taxes laws.
b. Enter into treaties with other states a. Where a tax is imposed by the National Government and
another by the city for the exercise of occupation or business as the
taxes are not imposed by the same public authority ( City of Baguio
Double Taxation vs De Leon, Oct. 31, 1968)
b. When a Real Estate dealers tax is imposed for engaging in
Two (2) Kinds of Double Taxation the business of leasing real estate in addition to Real Estate Tax on
1. Obnoxious or Direct Duplicate Taxation (Double taxation the property leased and the tax on the income desired as they are
in its strict sense) - In the objectionable or prohibited sense means different kinds of tax
that the same property is taxed twice when it should be taxed only c. Tax on manufacturers products and another tax on the
once. privilege of storing exportable copra in warehouses within a
municipality are imposed as first tax is different from the second
Requisites: d. Where, aside from the tax, a license fee is imposed in the
1. Same property is taxed twice exercise of police power.
2. Same purpose
3. Same taxing authority Exception: Double Taxation while not forbidden, is something not
4. Within the same jurisdiction favored. Such taxation, it has been held, should, whenever possible,
5. During the same taxing period be avoided and prevented.
6. Same kind or character of tax a. Doubts as to whether double taxation has been imposed
should be resolved in favor of the taxpayer. The reason is to avoid
2. Permissive or Indirect Duplicate Taxation (Double injustice and unfairness.
taxation in its broad sense) This is the opposite of direct double b. The taxpayer may seek relief under the Uniformity Rule or
taxation and is not legally objectionable. The absence of one or the Equal Protection guarantee.
more of the foregoing requisites of the obnoxious direct tax makes it Forms of Escape from Taxation
indirect.
Six Basic Forms of Escape from Taxation
Instances of Double Taxation in its Broad Sense 1. Shifting
1. A tax on the mortgage as personal property when the
mortgaged property is also taxed at its full value as real estate;
2. Capitalization
2. A tax upon a corporation for its capital stock as a whole and 3. Transformation
upon the shareholders for their shares; 4. Evasion
3. A tax upon a corporation for its capital stock as a whole and 5. Avoidance
upon the shareholders for their shares; 6. Exemption
4. A tax upon depositions in the bank for their deposits and a
tax upon the bank for their property in which such deposits are 1. Shifting Transfer of the burden of a tax by the original
invested payer or the one on whom the tax was assessed or imposed to
5. An excise tax upon certain use of property and a property tax another or someone else
upon the same property; and Impact of taxation is the point at which a tax is
6. A tax upon the same property imposed by two different originally imposed.
states. Incidence of Taxation is the point on which a tax
burden finally rests or settles down.
Means to Reduce the Harsh Effect of Taxation Relations among Shifting, Impact and Incidence of
1. Tax Deduction subtraction from gross income in arriving a Taxation the impact is the initial phenomenon, the shifting is the
taxable income intermediate process, and the incidence is the result.
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Kinds of Shifting: 1. It is merely a personal privilege of the grantee

a. Forward Shifting the burden of tax is 2. It is generally revocable by the government unless the
transferred from a factor of production through the factors of exemption is founded on a contract which is protected from
distribution until it finally settles on the ultimate purchaser or impairment, but the contract must contain the other essential
consumer elements of contracts, such as, for example, a valid cause or
b. Backward Shifting effected when the burden of consideration.
tax is transferred from the consumer or purchaser through the factors 3. It implies a waiver on the part of the government of its right
of distribution to the factor of production to collect what otherwise would be due to it, and in this sense is
c. Onward Shifting this occurs when the tax is prejudicial thereto.
shifted two or more times either forward or backward 4. It is not necessarily discriminatory so long as the
exemption has a reasonable foundation or rational basis.
2. Capitalization, defined the reduction in the price of the
taxed object equal to the capitalized value of future taxes which the C. Rationale of tax Exemption
purchaser expects to be called upon to pay Public interest would be subserved by the exemption
allowed which the law-making body considers sufficient to offset
3. Transformation The method whereby the manufacturer or monetary loss entailed in the grant of the exemption. (CIR vs
producer upon whom the tax has been imposed, fearing the loss of Bothelo Shipping Corp., L-21633, June 29, 1967; CIR vs PAL,
his market if he should add the tax to the price, pays the tax and L-20960, Oct. 31, 1968)
endeavors to recoup himself by improving his process of production
thereby turning out his units of products at a lower cost. D. Grounds for Tax Exemptions
1. May be based on a contract in which case, the public
4. Tax Evasion is the use of the taxpayer of illegal or represented by the Government is supposed to receive a full
fraudulent means to defeat or lessen the payment of a tax. equivalent therefore
2. May be based on some ground of public policy, such as, for
Indicia of Fraud in Taxation example, to encourage new and necessary industries.
a. Failure to declare for taxation purposes true and actual 3. May be created in a treaty on grounds of reciprocity or to
income derived from business for two consecutive years, and lessen the rigors of international double or multiple taxation which
b. Substantial underdeclaration of income tax returns of the occur where there are many taxing jurisdictions, as in the taxation of
taxpayer for four consecutive years coupled with overstatement of income and intangible personal property
deduction.
E. Equity, not a ground for Tax Exemption
Evasion of the tax takes place only when there are no There is no tax exemption solely on the ground of equity,
proceeds. Evasion of Taxation is tantamount, fiscally speaking, to the but equity can be used as a basis for statutory exemption. At times
absence of taxation. the law authorizes condonation of taxes on equitable considerations.
(Sec 276, 277, Local Government Code)
5. Tax Avoidance is the use by the taxpayer of legally
permissible alternative tax rates or method of assessing taxable F. Kinds of Tax Exemptions
property or income in order to avoid or reduce tax liability. 1. As to basis
Tax Avoidance is not punishable by law, a taxpayer has the a. Constitutional Exemptions Immunities from taxation
legal right to decrease the amount of what otherwise would be his which originate from the Constitution
taxes or altogether avoid by means which the law permits. b. Statutory Exemptions Those which emanate from
Legislation
Distinction between Tax Evasion and Avoidance
2. As to form
a. Express Exemption Whenever expressly granted by
Tax Evasion vs Tax Avoidance
organic or statute of law
accomplished by breaking accomplished by legal
b. Implied Exemption Exist whenever particular persons,
the letter of the law procedures or means which
properties or excises are deemed exempt as they fall outside the
maybe contrary to the intent of
scope of the taxing provision itself
the sponsors of the tax law but
nevertheless do not violate the
3. As to extent
letter of the law
a. Total Exemption Connotes absolute immunity
b. Partial Exemption One where collection of a part of the
tax is dispensed with
VI. Exemption from Taxation
G. Principles Governing the Tax Exemption
A. Tax Exemption is a grant of immunity, express or implied, to
1. Exemptions from taxation are highly disfavored by law, and
particular persons or corporations from the obligations to pay taxes.
he who claims an exemption must be able to justify by the clearest
grant of organic or statute of law. (Asiatic Petroleum vs Llanes, 49
B. Nature of Tax Exemption
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PHIL 466; Collector of Internal Revenue vs. Manila Jockey Club, 98 Doctrine of Equitable Recoupment
PHIL 670) It provides that a claim for refund barred by prescription may
2. He who claims an exemption must justify that the legislative be allowed to offset unsettled tax liabilities should be pertinent only to
intended to exempt him by words too plain to be mistaken. (Visayan taxes arising from the same transaction on which an overpayment is
Cebu Terminal vs CIR, L-19530, Feb. 27, 1965) made and underpayment is due.
3. He who claims exemptions should convincingly proved that
This doctrine, however, was rejected by the Supreme
he is exempt
Court, saying that it was not convinced of the wisdom and proprietary
4. Tax exemptions must be strictly construed (Phil. Acetylene
thereof, and that it may work to tempt both the collecting agency and
vs CIR, L-19707, Aug. 17, 1967)
the taxpayer to delay and neglect their respective pursuits of legal
5. Tax Exemptions are not presumed. (Lealda Electric Co. vs
action within the period set by law. (Collector vs UST, 104 PHIL
CIR, L-16428, Apr. 30, 1963)
1062)
6. Constitutional grants of tax exemptions are self-executing
(Opinion No. 130, 1987, Sec. Of Justice)
Taxpayers Suit - It is only when an act complained of, which may
7. Tax exemption are personal.
include legislative enactment, directly involves the illegal
8. Deductions for income tax purposes partake of the nature of
disbursement of public funds derived from taxation that the
tax exemptions, hence, they are strictly construed against the tax
taxpayers suit may be allowed.
payer
9. A tax amnesty, much like a tax exemption is never favored
VIII. Interpretation and Construction of Tax Statutes
or presumed by law (CIR vs CA, G.R. No. 108576, Jan. 20, 1999)
Important Points to Consider:
10. The rule of strict construction of tax exemption should not be
1. On the interpretation and construction of tax statutes,
applied to organizations performing strictly religious, charitable, and
legislative intention must be considered.
educational functions
2. In case of doubt, tax statutes are construed strictly against
VII. Other Doctrines in Taxation
the government and liberally construed in favor of the taxpayer.
Prospectivity of Tax Laws
3. The rule of strict construction against the government is not
applicable where the language of the tax law is plain and there is no
General Rule: Taxes must only be imposed prospectively
doubt as to the legislative intent.
Exception: The language of the statute clearly demands or express
4. The exemptions (or equivalent provisions, such as tax
that it shall have a retroactive effect.
amnesty and tax condonation) are not presumed and when granted
are strictly construed against the grantee.
Important Points to Consider
5. The exemptions, however, are construed liberally in favor of
1. In order to declare a tax transgressing the due process clause the grantee in the following:
of the Constitution it must be so harsh and oppressive in its a. When the law so provides for such liberal construction;
retroactive application (Fernandez vs Fernandez, 99 PHIL934) b. Exemptions from certain taxes granted under special
2. Tax laws are neither political nor penal in nature they are circumstances to special classes of persons;
deemed laws of the occupied territory rather than the occupying c. Exemptions in favor of the Government, its political
enemy. (Hilado vs Collector, 100 PHIL 288) subdivisions;
3. Tax laws not being penal in character, the rule in the d. Exemptions to traditional exemptees, such as, those in
Constitution against the passage of the ex post facto laws cannot be favor of charitable institutions.
invoked, except for the penalty imposed.
6. The tax laws are presumed valid.
Imprescriptibility of Taxes
7. The power to tax is presumed to exist.
General Rule: Taxes are imprescriptible
TAX ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
Exception: When provided otherwise by the tax law itself.
Example: NIRC provides for statutes of limitation in the
assessment and collection of taxes therein imposed Agencies Involved in Tax Administration

Important Point to Consider

1. Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Bureau of
1. The law on prescription, being a remedial measure, should be Customs for internal revenue and customs law
liberally construed to afford protection as a corollary, the exceptions enforcement. It is noteworthy to note that the BIR is
to the law on prescription be strictly construed. (CIR vs CA. G.R. No. largely decentralized in that a great extent of tax
104171, Feb. 24, 1999) enforcement duties are delegated to the Regional
Directors and Revenue District Officers.
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

statutes (E. Rodriguez, Inc. vs. Collector of Internal Revenue, L-

2. Provincial, City and Municipal assessors and 23041, July 31, 1969.)
treasures for local and real property taxes.
Similarly, estoppel does not apply to deprive the
government of its right to raise defenses even if those defenses are
Agents and Deputies for Collection of National Internal being raised only for the first time on appeal (CIR vs Procter &
Revenue Taxes Gamble Phil. G.R. No. 66838, 15 April 1988.)

Under Sec. 12 of the 1997 NIRC, the following are Exceptions:

constituted as agents of the Commissioner:
The Court ruled in Commissioner of Internal Revenue vs.
a. The Commissioner of Customs and his subordinates C.A., et. al. G.R. No. 117982, 6 Feb 1997 that like other principles of
with respect to the collection of national internal law, the non-application of estoppel to the government admits of
revenue taxes on imported goods; exceptions in the interest of justice and fair play, as where
b. The head of the appropriate government office and his injustice will result to the taxpayer.
subordinates with respect to the collection of energy
tax; and Estoppel Against the Taxpayer
c. Banks duly accredited by the Commissioner with
respect to receipt of payments of internal revenue While the principle of estoppel may not be invoked against
taxes authorized to be made through banks. the government, this is not necessarily true in case of the taxpayer. In
CIR vs. Suyac, 104 Phil 819, the taxpayer made several requests for
the reinvestigation of its tax liabilities such that the government,
Bureau of Internal Revenue acceding to the taxpayers request, postponed the collection of its
liability. The taxpayer cannot later on be permitted to raise the
Powers and Duties defense of prescription inasmuch as his previous requests for
reinvestigation have the effect of placing him in estoppel.
a. Exclusive and original power to interpret provisions of
the NIRC and other tax laws, subject to review by the
Secretary of Finance;
b. Assessment and Collection of all national internal Nature and Kinds of Assessments
revenue taxes, fees and charges;
c. Enforcement of all forfeitures, penalties and fines An assessment is the official action of an
connected therewith; administrative officer determining the amount of tax due from
d. Execution of judgment in all cases decided in its favor a taxpayer, or it may be the notice to the effect that the
by the Court of Tax Appeals and the ordinary courts. amount therein stated is due from the taxpayer that the
e. Effecting and administering the supervisory and police payment of the tax or deficiency stated therein. (Bisaya Land
powers conferred to it by the Tax Code or other laws. Transportation Co. vs CIR, 105 Phil 1338)
f. Obtaining information, summoning, examining and
taking testimony of persons for purposes of Classifications:
ascertaining the correctness of any return or in
determining the liability of any person for any internal a. Self-assessment- Tax is assessed by the taxpayer
revenue tax, or in collecting any such liability. himself. The amount is reflected in the tax return that
is filed by him and the tax is paid at the time he files
his return. (Sec. 56 [A] {1], 1997 NIRC)
Rule of No Estoppel Against the Government b. Deficiency Assessment- This is an assessment
made by the tax assessor whereby the correct amount
It is a settled rule of law that in the performance of its of the tax is determined after an examination or
governmental functions, the state cannot be estopped by the neglect investigation is conducted. The liability is determined
of its agents and officers. Nowhere is it more true than in the field of and is; therefore, assessed for the following reasons:
taxation (CIR vs. Abad, et. al., L-19627, June 27, 1968 ). Estoppel 1. The amount ascertained exceeds that which
does not apply to preclude the subsequent findings on taxability is shown as tax by the taxpayer in his return;
(Ibid.) 2. No amount is shown in the return or;
3. The taxpayer did not file any return at all.
(Sec. 56 [B] ]1] and [2] 1997 NIRC)
The principle of tax law enforcement is: The Government
is not estopped by the mistakes or errors of its agents; c. Illegal and Void Assessments- This is an
erroneous application and enforcement of law by public assessment wherein the tax assessor has no power to
officers do not block the subsequent correct application of
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

act at all (Victorias Milling vs. CTA, L-24213, 13 Mar

1968)
5. Assessments must be directed to the right party. Hence, if
d. Erroneous Assessment This is an assessment
for example, the taxpayer being assessed is an estate of
wherein the assessor has the power to assess but
a decedent, the administrator should be the party to
errs in the exercise of that power (Ibid.)
whom the assessment should be sent (Republic vs. dela
Rama, L-21108, 29 Nov. 1966), and not the heirs of the
decedent
Principles Governing Tax Assessments

1. Assessments are prima facie presumed correct

Means Employed in the Assessment of Taxes
and made in good faith.

The taxpayer has the duty of proving otherwise A. Examination of Returns: Confidentiality Rule
(Interprovincial Autobus vs. CIR, 98 Phil 290)
In the absence of any proof of any irregularities in the The Tax Code requires that after the return is filed, the
performance of official duties, an assessment will not Commissioner or his duly authorized representative shall examine
be disturbed. (Sy Po. Vs. CTA, G.R. No 81446, 8 Aug the same and assess the correct amount of tax. The tax or the
1988 deficiency of the tax so assessed shall be paid upon notice and
All presumptions are in favor of tax assessments demand from the Commissioner or from his duly authorized
(Dayrit vs. Cruz, L-39910, 26 Sept. 1988) representative. Any return, statement or declaration filed in any office
Failure to present proof of error in the assessment will authorized to receive the same shall not be withdrawn. However,
justify judicial affirmation of said assessments. (CIR within three (3) days from the date of such filing, the same may be
vs C.C. G.R. No. 104151 and 105563, 10 Mar 1995) modified, changed or amended, provided that no notice for audit or
A party challenging an appraisers finding of value is investigation of such return, statement or declaration has in the
required to prove not only that the appraised value is meantime been actually served upon the taxpayer. (Sec 6[A], 1997
erroneous but also what the proper value is (Caltex NIRC)
vs. C.C. G.R. No. 104781, 10 July 1998)
Although Sec. 71 of the 1997 NIRC provides that tax
2. Assessments should not be based on presumptions no returns shall constitute public records, it is necessary to know that
matter how logical the presumption might be. In order to stand these are confidential in nature and may not be inquired into in
the test of judicial scrutiny it must be based on actual facts . unauthorized cases under pain of penalty of law provided for in Sec
270 of the 1997 NIRC.

3. Assessment is discretionary on the part of the

The aforesaid rule, however, is subject to certain
Commissioner. Mandamus will not lie to compel him to
exceptions. In the following cases, inquiry into the income tax returns
assess a tax after investigation if he finds no ground to
of taxpayers may be authorized:
assess. Mandamus to compel the Commissioner to
assess will result in the encroachment on executive
functions (Meralco Secuirities Corp. vs. Savellano, L-36181 1. When the inspection of the return is authorized upon
the written order of the President of the Philippines.
and L-36748, 23 Oct 1992).
2. When inspection is authorized under the Finance
Regulation No. 33 of the Secretary of Finance.
3. When the production of the tax return is material
Except:
evidence in a criminal case wherein the Government
The BIR Commissioner may be compelled to assess is interested in the result. (Cu Unjieng, et. al. vs.
by mandamus if in the exercise of his discretion there is Posadas, etc, 58 Phil 360)
evidence of arbitrariness and grave abuse of discretion 4. When the production or inspection thereof is
as to go beyond statutory authority (Maceda vs. Macaraig, authorized by the taxpayer himself (Vera vs Cusi L-
G.R. No. 8829, 8 June 1993). 33115, 29 June 1979).

4. The authority vested in the Commissioner to assess taxes

may be delegated. An assessment signed by an employee
for and in behalf of the Commissioner of Internal B. Assessment Based on the Best Evidence Obtainable
Revenue is valid. However, it is settled that the power to
make final assessments cannot be delegated. The person The law authorizes the Commissioner to assess taxes on
to whom a duty is delegated cannot lawfully delegate that the basis of the best evidence obtainable in the following cases:
duty to another. (City Lumber vs. Domingo, L-18611, 30 Jan
1964).
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

1. if a person fails to file a return or other document at

the time prescribed by law; or a. That the taxpayer is retiring from business subject to
2. he willfully or otherwise files a false or fraudulent tax;
return or other document. b. That he intends to leave the Philippines or remove his
property therefrom;
When the method is used, the Commissioner makes or c. That the taxpayer hides or conceals his property; or
amends the return from his knowledge and from such information as d. That he performs any act tending to obstruct the
he can obtain through testimony or otherwise. Assessments made as proceedings for the collection of the tax for the past or
such are deemed prima facie correct and sufficient for all legal current quarter or year or to render the same totally or
purposes. (Sec. 6 [B], 1997 NIRC) partly ineffective unless such proceedings are begun
immediately.
Best Evidence Obtainable refers to any data, record,
papers, documents, or any evidence gathered by internal revenue The written decision to terminate the tax period shall be
officers from government offices or agencies, corporations, accompanied with a request for the immediate payment of the tax for
employers, clients or patients, tenants, lessees, vendees and from all the period so declared terminated and the tax for the preceding year
other sources, with whom the taxpayer had previous transactions or or quarter, or such portion thereof as may be unpaid. Said taxes shall
from whom he received any income, after ascertaining that a report be due and payable immediately and shall be subject to all the
required by law as basis for the assessment of any internal revenue penalties prescribed unless paid within the time fixed in the demand
tax has not been filed or when there is reason to believe that any made by the Commissioner (Sec. 6 [d], 1997 NIRC)
such report is false, incomplete or erroneous.

A case in point on the use of the best evidence obtainable

is Sy Po vs CTA. In that case, there was a demand made by the
Commissioner on the Silver Cup Wine Company owned by
petitioners deceased husband Po Bien Seng. The demand was for E. Fixing of Real Property Values
the taxpayer to submit to the BIR for examination the factorys books
of accounts and records, so BIR investigators raided the factory and For purposes of computing any internal revenue tax, the
seized different brands of alcoholic beverages. value of the property shall be whichever is the higher of : (1) the fair
market value as determined by the Commissioner; or (2) the fair
The investigators, on the basis of the wines seized and the market value as shown in the schedule of values of the Provincial
sworn statements of the factorys employees on the quantity of raw and City Assessors for real tax purposes (Sec 6 [E], 1997 NIRC).
materials consumed in the manufacture of liquor, assessed the
corresponding deficiency income and specific taxes. The Supreme
Court, on appeal, upheld the legality of the assessment. F. Inquiry into Bank Deposits

Examination of bank deposits enables the Commissioner to

assess the correct tax liabilities of taxpayers. However, bank deposits
C. Inventory-Taking, Surveillance and Presumptive Gross are confidential under R.A. 1405. Notwithstanding any contrary
Sales and Receipts provisions of R.A. 1405 and other general or special laws, the
Commissioner is authorized to inquire into the bank deposits of;
The Commissioner is authorized at any time during the taxable
year to order the inventory-taking of goods of any taxpayer as a 1. a decedent to determine his gross estate; and
basis for assessment.
2. any taxpayer who has filed an application for
If there is reason to believe that a person is not declaring compromise of his tax liability under Sec. 204 (A) (@) of the Tax
his correct income, sales or receipts for internal revenue tax Code by reason of his financial incapacity to pay his tax liability. In
purposes, his business operation may be placed under observation this case, the application for compromise shall not be considered
or surveillance. The finding made in the surveillance may be used as unless and until he waives in writing his privilege under R.A. 1405, or
a basis for assessing the taxes for the other months or quarters of under other general or special laws, and such waiver shall constitute
the same or different taxable years. (Sec. 6 [C], 1997 NIRC) the authority of the Commissioner to inquire into bank deposits of the
taxpayer (Sec. 6[F], 1997 NIRC).

D. Termination of Taxable Period Net Worth Method in Investigation

The Commissioner shall declare the tax period of a taxpayer The basis of using the Net Worth Method of investigation is
terminated at any time when it shall come to his knowledge: Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 43-72. This method of
investigation, otherwise known as inventory method of income tax
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

verification is a very effective method of determining taxable income income is not essential-that the government is not
and deficiency income tax due from a taxpayer. required to negate all possible non-taxable sources of
the alleged net worth increases. The burden of proof
is upon the taxpayer to show that his net worth
increase was derived from non-taxable sources.
As stated by the Supreme Court, in civil
Basic Concept and Theory cases, the assessor need not prove the specific
The method is an extension of the basic accounting source of income. This reasonable on the basic
principle: assets minus liabilities equals net worth . The taxpayers net assumption that most assets are derived from a
worth is determined both at the beginning and at the end of the same taxable source and that when this is not true, the
taxable year. The increase or decrease in net worth is adjusted by taxpayer is in a position to explain the discrepancy.
adding all non-deductible items and subtracting therefrom non- (Perez vs. CTA, supra)
taxable receipts. The theory is that the unexplained increase in net
worth of a taxpayer is presumed to be derived from taxable sources. However, when the taxpayer is
criminally prosecuted for tax evasion, the need for
evidence of a likely source of income becomes a
prerequisite for a successful prosecution. The burden
of proof is always with the Government. Conviction in
Legal Source of authority for use of the Method such cases, as in any criminal case, rests on proof
The Commissioners authority to use the net worth method beyond reasonable doubt.
and other indirect methods of establishing taxable income is found in
Sec. 43, 1997 NIRC. This authority has been upheld by the courts in
a long line of cases, notable among which is the leading case of (c) That there is a fixed starting point or opening net
Perez vs. CTA, 103 Phil 1167. The method is a practical necessity if worth, i.e., a date beginning with a taxable year
a fair and efficient system of collecting revenue is to be maintained. or prior to it, at which time the taxpayers
financial condition can be affirmatively
established with some definiteness.
Moreover, Sec. 6[B], 1997 NIRC, provides for a broad and
general investigatory power to assess the proper tax on the best This is an essential condition,
evidence obtainable whenever a report required by law as basis for considered to be the cornerstone of a net worth
the assessment of any national internal revenue tax shall not be case. If the starting point or opening net worth is
forthcoming within the time fixed by law or regulation, or when there proven to be wrong, the whole superstructure
is reason to believe that any such report is false, incomplete or usually fails. The courts have uniformly stressed
erroneous. that the validity of the result of any investigation
Conditions for the use of the method under this method will depend entirely upon a
correct opening net worth.

(a) That the taxpayer's books of accounts do not

clearly reflect his income, or the taxpayer has no (d) That the circumstances are such that the method
books, or if he has books, he refuses to produce does not reflect the taxpayers income with
them (Inadequate Records). reasonable accuracy and certainty and proper
and just additions of personal expenses and
other non-deductible expenditures were made
The Government may be forced to and correct, fair and equitable credit
resort to the net worth method of proof where the few adjustments were given by way of eliminating
records of the taxpayer were destroyed; for, to require non-taxable items. (Proper adjustments to
more would be tantamount to holding that skillful conform to the income tax laws)
concealment is an inevitable barrier to proof.

Proper adjustments for non-deductible items

(b) That there is evidence of a possible source or must be made. The following non-deductibles, as the
sources of income to account for the increase in case may be, must be added to the increase or
net worth or the expenditures (Need for decrease in the net worth:
evidence of the sources of income) .

In all leading cases on this matter, 1. personal, living or family expenses;

courts are unanimous in holding that when the tax 2. premiums paid on any life insurance policy;
case is civil in nature, direct proof of sources of
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

3. losses from sales or exchanges of property

between members of the family;
(2) interest either for a deficiency tax or
4. income taxes paid;
delinquency as to payment;
5. estate, inheritance and gift taxes;
6. other non-deductible taxes;
7. election expenses and other expenses
(3) other civil penalties or administrative fines
against public policy;
such as for failure to file certain information returns and
8. non-deductible contributions;
violations committed by withholding agents. (Secs. 247 to
9. gifts to others;
10. net capital loss, and the like 252, 1997 NIRC)

On the other hand, non-taxable items should be General Considerations on the Addition to tax
deducted therefrom. These items are necessary
adjustments to avoid the inclusion of what otherwise a. Additions to the tax or deficiency tax apply to
are non-taxable receipts. They are: all taxes, fees, and charges imposed in the Tax Code.

1. inheritance, gifts and bequests received; b. The amount so added to the tax shall be
2. non-taxable capital gains; collected at the same time, in the same manner, and as
3. compensation for injuries or sickness; part of the tax.
4. proceeds of life insurance policies;
5. sweepstakes winnings;
6. interest on government securities and the c. If the withholding agent is the government or
like any of its agencies, political subdivisions or
instrumentalities, or a government owned or controlled
corporation, the employee thereof responsible for the
Increase in net worth are not taxable if they withholding and remittance of the tax shall be personally
are shown not to be the result of unreported income liable for the additions to the tax prescribed (Sec. 247[b],
but to be the result of the correction of errors in the 1997 NIRC) such as the 25% surcharge and the 20%
taxpayers entries in the books relating to interest per annum on the delinquency (Secs. 248 and
indebtedness to certain creditors, erroneously listed 249 [C], 1997 NIRC)
although already paid. (Fernandez Hermanos Inc. vs.
CIR, L-21551, 30 Sept. 1969)

Surcharge

Enforcement of Forfeitures and Penalties The payment of the surcharge is mandatory and
the Commissioner of Internal Revenue is not vested with
any authority to waive or dispense with the collection
Statutory Offenses and Penalties thereof. In one case, the Supreme Court held that the fact
that on account of riots directed against the Chinese on
certain dates, they were prevented from paying their
internal revenue taxes on time, does not authorize the
1. Additions to the Tax
Commissioner to extend the time prescribed for the
payment of taxes or to accept them without the additional
Additions to the tax are increments to the basic penalty (Lim Co Chui vs. Posadas, 47 Phil 460)
tax incident due to the taxpayers non-compliance with
certain legal requirements, like the taxpayers refusal or
failure to pay taxes and/or other violations of taxing The Commissioner is not vested with any
provisions. authority to waive or dispense with the collection therof.
(CIR vs. CA, supra). The penalty and interest are not penal
but compensatory for the concomitant use of the funds by
Additions to the tax consist of the: the taxpayer beyond the date when he is supposed to have
paid them to the Government. (Philippine Refining
Company vs. C.A., G.R. No. 1188794, 8 May 1996).
(1) civil penalty, otherwise known as surcharge,
which may either be 25% or 50 % of the tax depending
upon the nature of the violation;
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

An extension of time to pay taxes granted by the

Commissioner does not excuse payment of the surcharge
2. Delinquency interest
(CIR vs. Cu Unjieng, L-26869, 6 Aug. 1975)
This kind of interest is imposed in case of failure to
pay:
The following cases, however, show the (1) The amount of the tax due on any return
instances when the imposition of the 25% surcharge had required to be filed, or
been waived: (2) The amount of the tax due for which no
return is required, or
(3) A deficiency tax, or any surcharge or interest
1. Where the taxpayer in good faith made a mistake in thereon on the due date appearing in the
the interpretation of the applicable regulations thereby notice and demand of the Commissioner.
resulting in delay in the payment of taxes. (Connel
Bros. Co. vs. CIR, L-15470, 26 Dec. 1963)
2. A Subsequent reversal by the BIR of a prior ruling
relied upon by the taxpayer may also be a ground for 3. Interest on Extended Payment
dispensing with the 25% surcharge. (CIR vs. Republic
Imposed when a person required to pay the tax is qualified
Cement Corp., L-35677, 10 Aug. 1983)
and elects to pay the tax on installment under the provisions of the
3. Where a doubt existed on the part of the Bureau as to
Code, but fails to pay the tax or any installment thereof, or any part of
whether or not R.A. 5431 abolished the income tax
such amount or installment on or before the date prescribed for its
exemptions of corporations (including electric power
payment, or where the Commissioner has authorized an extension of
franchise grantees) except those exempt under Sec.
time within which to pay a tax or a deficiency tax or any part thereof.
27 (now, Sec. 30, 1997 NIRC), the imposition of the
(Sec. 249[d], 1997 NIRC)
surcharge may be dispensed with (Cagayan Electreic
Power & Light Co. vs CIR, G.R. No. 60126, 25 Sept.
1985)
Administrative Offenses
4. In the case of failure to make and file a return or list
within the time prescribed by law, not due to willful 1. Failure to File Certain Information Returns
neglect, where such return or list is voluntarily filed by
the taxpayer without notice from the CIR or other 2. Failure of a Withholding Agent to Collect and Remit
officers, and it is shown that the failure to file it in due Taxes
time was due to a reasonable cause, no surcharge will 3. Failure of a Withholding Agent to Refund Excess
be added to the amount of tax due on the return. In Withholding Tax
such case, in order to avoid the imposition of the
surcharge, the taxpayer must make a statement
showing all the facts alleged as reasonable causes for Sources of revenues:
failure to file the return on time in the form of an 1. Income tax
affidavit, which should be attached to the return. 2. Estate Tax and donor tax
3. VAT
4. Other percentage taxes
5. Excise tax
Interest 6. Documentary stamp taxes
This is an increment on any unpaid amount of 7. Other as imposed and provided by BIR
tax, assessed at the rate of twenty percent (20%) per
annum, or such higher rate as may be prescribed y rules REMEDIES OF THE GOVERNMENT
and regulations, from the date prescribed for payment until
the amount is fully paid. (Sec. 249 [A], 1997 NIRC)
Enumeration of the Remedies

Interest is classified into: I. Administrative

1. Distraint of Personal Property
1. Deficiency interest 2. Levy of Real Property
Any deficiency in the tax due, as the term is defined 3. Tax Lien
in this code, shall be subject to the interest of 20% per 4. Compromise
annum, or such higher rate as may be prescribed by rules 5. Forfeiture
and regulations, which shall be assessed and collected 6. Other Administrative Remedies
from the date prescribed for its payment until the full
payment thereof (Sec. 249 [B], 1997 NIRC) II. Judicial
1. Civil Action
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

2. Criminal Action 3. Sale at public auction to highest bidder

4. Disposition of proceeds of the sale.
Distraint of Personal Property

Distraint- Seizure by the government of personal property, Who may effect distraint Amount Involved
tangible or intangible, to enforce the payment of faces, to be 1. commissioner or his due authorized In excess of
followed by its public sale, if the taxes are not voluntarily paid. representative P1,000,000.00
2. RDO P1,000,000.00 or
KINDS less
a. Actual There is taking of possession of personal
property out of the taxpayer into that of the
government. How Actual Distraint Effected
In case of intangible property. Taxpayer is also
diverted of the power of control over the property 1. In case of Tangible Property:
b. Constructive The owner is merely prohibited from
disposing of his personal property. a. Copy of an account of the property distrained,
signed by the officer, left either with the owner or
person from whom property was taken, at the
dwelling or place of business and with someone
of suitable age and discretion
Actual vs. Constructive Distraint b. Statement of the sum demanded.
Made on the property only of a May be made on the property of c. Time and place of sale.
delinquent taxpayer. any taxpayer whether
delinquent or not 2. In case of intangible property:
There is actual taking or Taxpayer is merely prohibited
possession of the property. from disposing of his property. a. Stocks and other securities
Effected by having a list of the Effected by requiring the Serving a copy of the warrant upon
distraint property or by service or taxpayer to sign a receipt of the taxpayer and upon president, manager, treasurer
warrant of distraint or property or by leaving a list of or other responsible officer of the issuing
garnishment. same corporation, company or association.
An immediate step for collection Such immediate step is not
of taxes where amount due is necessary; tax due may not be b. Debts and credits
definite. definite or it is being 1. Leaving a copy of the warrant with the
questioned. person owing the debts or having in his
possession such credits or his agent.
2. Warrant shall be sufficient authority for such
Requisites: person to pay CIR his credits or debts.
c. Bank Accounts garnishment
1. Taxpayer is delinquent in the payment of tax. 1. Serve warrant upon taxpayer and president,
2. Subsequent demand for its payment. manager, treasurer or responsible officer of
3. Taxpayer must fail to pay delinquent tax at time required. the bank.
4. Period with in to assess or collect has not yet prescribed. 2. Bank shall turn over to CIR so much of the
In case of constructive distraint, requisite no. 1 is bank accounts as may be sufficient.
not essential (see Sec. 206 TC)
How constructive Distraint Effected
When remedy not available:
1. Require taxpayer or person in possession to
Where amount involved does not exceed P100 (Sec. 205 a. Sign a receipt covering property distrained
TC). b. Obligate him to preserve the same properties.
In keeping with the provision on the abatement of the c. Prohibit him from disposing the property from
collection of tax as the cost of same might even be more than P100. disposing the property in any manner, with out
the authority of the CIR.
Procedure:
2. Where Taxpayer or person in possession refuses to sign:
1. Service of warrant of distraint upon taxpayer or upon a. Officer shall prepare list of the property
person in possession of taxpayers personal property. distrained.
2. Posting of notice is not less than two places in the b. In the presence of two witnesses of sufficient age
municipality or city and notice to the taxpayer specifying and discretion, leave a copy in the premises
time and place of sale and the articles distrained. where property is located.
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

d. Price: Amount of taxes, penalties and interest thereon from

Grounds of Constructive Distraint date of delinquency to the date of sale together with
interest on said purchase price at 15% per annum from
1. Taxpayer is retiring from any business subject to tax. date of purchase to date of redemption.
2. Taxpayer is intending to leave the Philippines; or
3. To remove his property there from.
4. Taxpayer hides or conceals his property.
5. Taxpayer acts tending to obstruct collection proceedings. Distraint and Levy compared

Note: 1. Both are summary remedies for collection of taxes.

2. Both cannot be availed of where amount involved is not
1. Bank accounts may be distrained with out violating the more than P100.
confidential nature of bank accounts for no inquiry is made. 3. Distraint personal property
BIR simply seizes so much of the deposit with out having to Levy real property
know how much the deposits are or where the money or 4. Distraint forfeiture by government, not provided
any part of it came from. Levy forfeiture by government authorized where there is
2. If at any time prior to the consummation of the sale, all no bidder or the highest bid is not sufficient to pay the
proper charges are paid to the officer conducting the same, taxes, penalties and costs.
the goods distrained shall be restored to the owner. 5. Distraint Taxpayer no given the right of redemption
3. When the amount of the bid for the property under distraint Levy Taxpayer can redeem properties levied upon and
is not equal to the amount of the tax or is very much less sold/forfeited to the government.
than the actual market value of articles, the CIR or his
deputy may purchase the distrained property on behalf of Note:
the national government. 1. It is the duty of the Register of Deeds concerned upon
registration of the declaration of forfeiture, to transfer the
Levy of Real Property title to the property with out of an order from a competent
court
Levy Act of seizure of real property in order to enforce the 2. The remedy of distraint or levy may be repeated if
payment of taxes. The property may be sold at public sale, necessary until the full amount, including all expenses, is
if after seizure; the taxes are not voluntarily paid. collected.
The requisites are the same as that of distraint.
Enforcement of Tax Lien
Procedure:
Tax Lien:
1. International Revenue officer shall prepare a duly A legal claim or charge on property, either real or personal,
authenticated certificate showing established by law as a security in default of the payment of taxes.
a. Name of taxpayer 1. Nature:
b. Amount of tax and A lien in favor of the government of the Philippines when a
c. Penalty due. person liable to pay a tax neglects or fails to do so upon
- enforceable through out the Philippines demand.
2. Officer shall write upon the certificate a description of the 2. Duration:
property upon which levy is made. Exists from time assessment is made by the CIR until paid,
3. Service of written notice to: with interests, penalties and costs.
a. The taxpayer, and 3. Extent:
b. RD where property is located. Upon all property and rights to property belonging to the
4. Advertisement of the time and place of sale. taxpayer.
5. Sale at public auction to highest bidder. 4. Effectivity against third persons:
6. Disposition of proceeds of sale. Only when notice of such lien is filed by the CIR in the
The excess shall be turned over to owner. Register of Deeds concerned.

Redemption of property sold or forfeited Extinguishment of Tax Lien

a. Person entitled: Taxpayer or anyone for him 1. Payment or remission of the tax
b. Time to redeem: one year from date of sale or forfeiture 2. Prescription of the right of the government to assess or
- Begins from registration of the deed of sale or collect.
declaration of forfeiture. 3. Failure to file notice of such lien in the office of register of
- Cannot be extended by the courts. Deeds, purchases or judgment creditor.
c. Possession pending redemption owner not deprived of 4. Destruction of the property subject to the lien.
possession
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

In case Nos. 1 and 2, there is no more tax E: The Regional Evaluation Board may compromise the assessment
liability. Under nos. 3 and 4, the taxpayer is still issued by the regional offices involving basic taxes of P 500 K or
liable. less.

Enforcement of Tax Lien vs. Distraint Remedy in case of failure to comply:

A tax lien is distinguished from disttraint in that, in distraint The CIR may either:
the property seized must be that of the taxpayer, although it need not 1. enforce the compromise, or
be the property in respect to the tax is assessed. Tax lien is directed 2. Regard it as rescinded and insists upon the original
to the property subject to the tax, regardless of its owner. demand.

Note: Compromise Penalty

1. It is a certain amount of money which the taxpayer pays to
1. This is superior to judgment claim of private individuals or compromise a tax violation.
parties 2. It is pain in lieu of a criminal prosecution.
2. Attaches not only from time the warrant was served but 3. Since it is voluntary in character, the same may be
from the time the tax was due and demandable. collected only if the taxpayer is willing to pay them.

Compromise Enforcement of forfeiture

Compromise: A contract whereby the parties, by reciprocal Forfeiture: Implies a divestiture of property with out compensation, in
concessions, avoid litigation or put an end to one already consequence of a default or offense.
commenced. Includes the idea of not only losing but also having the
property transferred to another with out the consent of the owner and
Requisites: wrongdoer.

1. Taxpayer must have a tax liability. 1. Effect: Transfer the title to the specific thing from the owner
2. There must be an offer by taxpayer or CIR, of an amount to to the government.
be paid by taxpayer. 2. When available:
3. There must be acceptance of the offer in settlement of the a. No bidder for the real property exposed for sale.
original claim. b. If highest bid is for an amount insufficient to pay
the taxes, penalties and costs.
When taxes may be compromised: - With in two days thereafter, a return of the proceeding
is duly made.
1. A reasonable doubt as to the validity if the claim against the 3. How enforced:
taxpayer exists; a. In case of personal property by seizure and
2. The financial position of the taxpayer demonstrates a clear sale or destruction of the specific forfeited
inability to pay the assessed tax. property.
3. Criminal violations, except: b. In case of real property by a judgment of
a. Those already filed in court condemnation and sale in a legal action or
b. Those involving fraud. proceeding, civil or criminal, as the case may
require.
Limitations: 4. When forfeited property to be destroyed or sold:
a. To be destroyed by order of the CIR when the
1. Minimum compromise rate: sale for consumption or use of the following
a. 10% of the basic tax assessed in case of would be injurious to the public health or
financial incapacity. prejudicial to the enforcement of the law: (at
b. 40% of basic tax assessed other cases. least 20 days after seizure)
2. Subject to approval of Evaluation Board 1. distilled spirits
a. When basic tax involved exceeds P1,000,000.00 2. liquors
or 3. cigars
b. Where settlement offered is less than the 4. cigarettes, and other manufactured
prescribed minimum rates. products of tobacco
5. playing cards
Delegation of Power to Compromise 6. All apparatus used in or about the illicit
production of such articles.
GR: The power to compromise or abate shall not be delegated by b. To be sold or destroyed depends upon the
the commissioner. discretion of CIR
1. All other articles subject to exercise
tax, (wine, automobile, mineral
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

products, manufactured oils, 7. Inspection of books

miscellaneous products, non-essential Books of accounts and other accounting
items a petroleum products) records of taxpayer must be preserved, generally
manufactured or removed in violation within three years after date the tax return was
of the Tax Code. due or was filed whichever is later.
2. Dies for printing or making IR stamps, 8. Use of National Tax Register
labels and tags, in imitation of or 9. Obtaining information on tax liability of any
purport to be lawful stamps, labels or person
tags. 10. Inventory Taking of stock-in-trade and making
5. Where to be sole: surveillance.
a. Public sale: provided, there is notice of not less 11. Prescribing presumptive gross sales or receipt:
than 20 days. a. Person failed to issue receipts and
b. Private sale: provided, it is with the approval of invoices
the Secretary of Finance. b. Reason to believe that records do not
6. Right of Redemption: correctly reflect declaration in return.
a. Personal entitled taxpayer or anyone for him 12. Prescribing real property values
b. Time to redeem with in one (1) year from 13. Inquiring into bank deposit accounts of
forfeiture a. A deceased person to determine gross
c. Amount to be paid full amount of the taxes and estate
penalties, plus interest and cost of the sale b. Any taxpayer who filed application for
d. To whom paid Commissioner or the Revenue compromise by reasons of financial
Collection Officer incapacity his tax liability.
e. Effect of failure to redeem forfeiture shall 14. Registration of Taxpayers.
become absolute.
7. Note: Judicial Remedies
The Register of Deeds is duty bound to transfer
the title of property forfeited to the government with our Civil and Criminal Actions:
necessity of an order from a competent court. 1. Brought in the name of the Government of the
Philippines.
Other Administrative Remedies 2. Conducted by Legal Officer of BIR
3. Must be with the approval of the CIR, in case of
1. Requiring filing of bonds in the following action, for recovery of taxes, or enforcement of a
instances: fine, penalty or forfeiture.
a. Estate and donors tax A. Civil Action
b. Excise taxes Actions instituted by the government to collect
c. Exporters bond internal revenue taxes in regular courts (RTC or MTCs,
d. Manufacturers and importers bond depending on the amount involved)
2. Requiring proof of filing income tax returns When assessment made has become final and
Before a license to engage in trade, executory for failure or taxpayer to:
business or occupation or to practice a a. Dispute same by filing protest with CIR
profession can be issued. b. Appeal adverse decision of CIR to CTA
3. Giving reward to informers Sum equivalent to
10% of revenues, surcharges or fees recovered B. Criminal Action
and/or fine or penalty imposed and collected or A direct mode of collection of taxes, the judgment
P1, 000,000.00 per case, whichever is lower. of which shall not only impose the penalty but also order
4. Imposition of surcharge and interest. payment of taxes.
5. Making arrest, search and seizure An assessment of a tax deficiency is not
Limited to violations of any penal law or necessary to a criminal prosecution for tax evasion,
regulation administered by the BIR, committed provided there is a prima facie showing of willful attempt to
with in the view of the Internal Revenue Officer or evade.
EE.
6. Deportation in case of aliens on the following Effect of Acquittal on Tax Liability:
grounds
a. Knowingly and fraudulently evades Does not exonerate taxpayer his civil liability to pay the tax
payment of IR taxes. due. Thus, the government may still collect the tax in the same
b. Willfully refuses to pay such tax and its action.
accessory penalties, after decision on Reason: Tax is an obligation, does not arise from a criminal act.
his tax liability shall have become final
and executory. Effect of Satisfaction of Tax Liability on Criminal Liability
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

Will not operate to extinguish taxpayers criminal liability Note:

since the duty to pay the tax is imposed by statute, independent of Fraudulent return vs.
any attempt on past of taxpayers to evade payment. False return
This is true in case the criminal action is based on the act The filing thereof is intended and
to taxpayer of filing a false and fraudulent tax return and failure to It merely implies a
pay the tax. Deceitful with the aim of evading the
deviation from truth of
Note: correct tax due.
The satisfaction of civil liability is not one of the grounds for the fact whether intentional.
extinction of criminal action.

PRESCRIPTIVE PERIODS/STATUTE OF LIMITATION Nature of Fraud:

a. Fraud is never presumed and the circumstances
Purpose: consisting it must be alleged and proved to exist
For purposes of Taxation, statue of limitation is primarily by clear & convincing evidence (Republic vs.
designed to protect the rights of the taxpayers against unreasonable Keir, Sept. 30, 1966)
investigation of the taxing authority with respect to assessment and b. The fraud contemplated by law is actual and not
collection of Internal Revenue Taxes. constructive. It must amount to intentional
wrongdoing with the sole object of avoiding the
I. Prescription of Governments Right to Assess Taxes: tax. A mere mistake is not a fraudulent intent.
A. General Rule: (Aznar case, Aug. 23, 1974)
Internal Revenue Taxes shall be assessed within c. A fraud assessment which has become final and
three (3) years after the last day prescribed by law for executory, the fact of fraud shall be judicially
the filing of the return or from the day the return was taken cognizance of in the civil or criminal action
filed, in case it is filed beyond the period prescribed for the collection thereof. (Sec. 222 paragraph
thereof. (Section 203 of the Tax Code) (a))
Fraud may be established by the following : (Badges of
Note: Fraud)
A return filed before the last day prescribed by law for the a. Intentional and substantial understatement of tax
filing thereof shall be considered as filed on such last day. liability of the taxpayer.
In case a return is substantially amended, the government b. Intentional and substantial overstatement of
right to assess the tax shall commence from the filing of the deductions of exemption
amended return (CIR vs. Phoenix, May 20, 1965; Kei & Co. c. Recurrence of the foregoing circumstances.
vs. Collector, 4 SCRA 872) Instances/Circumstances negating fraud:
In computing the prescriptive period for assessment, the a. When the Commissioner fails impute fraud in the
latter is deemed made when notice to this effect is assessment notice/demand for payment.
released, mailed or sent by the Commissioner to the b. When the Commissioner failed to allege in his
correct address of the taxpayer. However, the law does not answer to the taxpayers petition for review when
require that the demand/notice be received within the the case is appealed to the CTA.
prescriptive period. (Basilan Estates, Inc. vs. c. When the Commissioner raised the question of
Commissioner 21, SCRA 17; Republic vs. CA April 30, fraud only for the first time in his memorandum
1987) which was filed the CTA after he had rested his
An affidavit executed by a revenue office indicating the tax case.
liabilities of a taxpayer and attached to a criminal complaint d. Where the BIR itself appeared, not sure as to
for tax evasion, cannot be deemed an assessment. ( CIR the real amount of the taxpayers net income.
vs. Pascoi Realty Corp. June 29, 1999) e. A mere understatement of income does not prove
A transcript sheets are not returns, because they do not fraud, unless there is a sufficient evidence
contain information necessary and required to permit the shaving fraudulent intent.
computation and assessment of taxes (Sinforo Alca vs.
Commissioner, Dec. 29, 1964) 3. Where the commissioner and the taxpayer, before the
expiration of the three (3) year period of limitation have
B.) Exceptions: (Sec. 222 ic) agree in writing to the extension of said period.

1. Where no return was filed - within ten (10) years after the Note:
date of discovery of the omission. Limitations:
2. Where a return was filed but the same was false or a. The agreement extending the period of prescription
fraudulent within ten (10) years from the discovery of should be in writing and duly signed by the taxpayer
falsity or fraud. and the commissioner.
 TAX ATION
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b. The agreement to extend the same should be mode period agreed upon, may be collected be distinct
before the expiration of the period previously agreed or levy of by a proceeding in court within the
upon. period agreed upon in writing before the
expiration of 5-year period.
4. Where there is a written waiver or renunciation of the
original 3-year limitation signed by the taxpayer. Note:
Distinction
Note: a. Agreement to extend period of vs.
Limitations: b. Agreement renouncing
a. The waiver to be valid must be executed by the Prescription. It must be made before the
parties before the lapse of the prescriptive period. period of prescription
b. A waiver is inefficient I it is executed beyond the Expiration of the period agreed upon to an
original three year. agreement waiving the defense of
c. The commissioner can not valid agree to reduce the be valid.
prescriptive period to less than that granted by law. Prescription is till binding to the

C) Imprescriptible Assessments: Taxpayer although made beyond such

1. Where the law does not provide for any particular period of
assessment, the tax sought to be assessed becomes prescriptive period.
imprescriptible.
2. Where no return is required by law, the tax is imprescriptible. 4. Where the government makes another
3. Assessment of unpaid taxes, where the bases of which is assessment on the basis of reinvestigation
not required by law to be reported in a return such as excise requested by the taxpayer the prescriptive
taxes. (Carmen vs. Ayala Securities Corp., Nov. 21, 1980) period for collection should be counted from the
4. Assessment of compensating and documentary stamp tax. last assessment. (Rep. vs. Lopez, March 30,
1963)
II. Prescription of Governments Right to Collect Taxes

A. General Rule:
1. Where an assessment was made Any internal 5. Where the assessment is revised because of an
revenue tax which has been assessed within the amended return the period for collection is
period of limitation may be collected by distraint counted from the last revised assessment.
or levy or by proceeding in court within 5 years
following the date of assessment. 6. Where a tax obligation is secured by a surety
2. Where no assessment was made and a return bond the government may proceed thru a court
was filed and the same is not fraudulent or false- action to forfeit a bond and enforce such
the tax should be collected within 3 years after contractual obligation within a period of ten
the return was due or was filed, whichever is years.
later.
7. Where the action is brought to enforce a
B. Exceptions: compromise entered into between the
1. Where a fraudulent/false return with intent to commission and the taxpayer the prescriptive
evade taxes was filed a proceeding in court for period is ten years.
the collection of the tax may be filed without
assessment, at anytime within ten years after the C. When tax is deemed collected for purposes of the
discovery of the falsity or fraud. prescriptive period.

Note: 1. Collection by summary remedies It is effected by

The 10-year prescriptive period for collector thru action summary methods when the government avail of
does not apply if it appears that there was an assessment. distraint and levy procedure.
In such case, the ordinary 5-year period (now 3 years) 2. Collection by judicial action The collection begins by
would apply (Rep. vs. Ret., March 31, 1962) filing the complaint with the proper court. (RTC)
3. Where assessment of the commissioner is protected
2. When the taxpayer omits to file a return a court & appealed to the CTA the collection begin when the
proceeding for the collection of such tax may be government file its answer to taxpayers petition for
filed without assessment, at anytime within 10 review.
years after the discovery of the omission.
3. Waiver of statute of limitations any internal
revenue tax, which has been assessed within the III. Rules of Prescription In Criminal Cases
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

A. Rule: All violations of any provision of the tax code shall Note:
prescribe after five (5) years. A mere request for reinvestigation
without any action or the part of the
Note: Commissioner does not interrupt the running of
When it should commence? : The five (5) year prescriptive the prescriptive period.
period shall begin to run from the The request must not be a mere pro-
a. Day of the commission of the violation, if know. former. Substantial issues must be raised.
b. If not known, from the time of discovery and the
institution of judicial proceeding for its investigation c. When the taxpayer cannot be located in
and punishment. the address given by him in the return.
When it is interrupted:
a. When a proceeding is instituted against the guilty Note:
person If the taxpayer informs the
b. When the offender is absent from the Philippines. Commissioner of any change in address the
When it should run again : When the proceeding is statute will not be suspended.
dismissed for reason not d. When the warrant of distraint or levy is
Constituting duly served upon any of the following
jeopardy. person:
When does the defense of prescription may be raised: 1. taxpayer
a. In civil case If not raised in the lower court, it is 2. his authorized representative
bailed permanently. 3. Member of his household with
- If can not be raised for the first time on appeal. sufficient discretion and no property
b. In criminal case It can be raised even if the case has could be located.
been decided by the lower court but pending decision
on appeal. e. When the taxpayer is out of the
Philippines.
IV. Interruption of the Prescriptive Period
3. In criminal cases for violation of tax code the
1. Where before the expiration of the time prescribed period shall not run when the offender is absent
for the assessment of the tax, both the from the Philippines.
commissioner and the taxpayer have consented in
writing to its assessment after such time, the tax Note:
may be assessed prior to the expiration of the A petition for reconsideration of a tax assessment does not
period agreed upon. suspend the criminal action.
2. The running of statute of limitations on making an Reason: No requirement for assessment of the tax before
assessment and the beginning of distraint/levy or a the criminal action may be instituted.
proceeding in court for collection shall be
suspended for the period. Nota Bene:
1. The law on prescription remedial measure should be
a. During which the Commissioner is interpreted liberally in order to protect the taxpayer.
prohibited from making the assessment or 2. The defense of prescription must be raised by the taxpayer
beginning distraint/levy or a proceeding in on time, otherwise it is deemed waived.
court and for 60 days thereafter; 3. The question of prescription is not jurisdictional, and as
e.g. defense it must be raised reasonably otherwise it is
Filing a petition for review in the CTA deemed waived.
from the decision of the Commissioner. 4. The prescriptive provided in the tax code over ride the
The commissioner is prevented from statute of non-claims in the settlement of the deceaseds
filing an ordinary action to collect the estate.
tax. 5. In the event that the collection of the tax has already
When CTA suspends the collection of prescribed, the government cannot invoke the principle of
tax liability of the taxpayer pursuant to Equitable recumbent by setting- off the prescribed tax
Section 11 of RA 1125 upon proof that against a tax refused to which the taxpayer is entitled.
its collection may jeopardizes the
government and /or the taxpayer.
TAXPAYERS REMEDIES
b. When the taxpayer requests for
reinvestigation which is granted by
commissioner. Administrative
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

a. When the finding for the deficiency tax is the result of

(1) Before Payment mathematical error in the computation of the tax as
appearing on the face of the return; or
a. Filing of a petition or request for b. When a discrepancy has been determined between
reconsideration or reinvestigation the tax withheld and the amount actually remitted by
(Administrative Protest); the withholding agent; or
b. Entering into compromise c. When a taxpayer who opted to claim a refund or tax
credit of excess creditable withholding tax for a
(2) After Payment taxable period was determined to have carried over
a. Filing of claim for tax refund; and and automatically applied the same amount claimed
b. Filing of claim for tax credit against the estimated tax liabilities for the taxable
quarter or quarters of the succeeding taxable year; or
d. When the excise tax due on excisable articles has not
Judicial been paid; or
e. When an article locally purchased or imported by an
(1) Civil action exempt person, such as, but not limited to, vehicles,
capital equipment, machineries, and spare parts, has
a. Appeal to the Court of Tax Appeals been sold, traded or transferred to non-exempt
b. Action to contest forfeiture of chattel; and persons.
c. Action for Damages
If the taxpayer fails to respond within fifteen (15) days from the
(2) Criminal Action date of receipt of the PAN, he shall be considered in default, in which
case, a formal letter of demand and assessment notice shall be
a. Filing of complaint against erring Bureau of caused to be issued, calling for payment of the taxpayers tax liability,
Internal Revenue officials and employees. inclusive of the applicable penalties (3.1.2. Revenue Regulations No.
12-99 dated Sept. 6, 1999).

ADMINISTRATIVE PROTEST
Issuance of a Formal Letter of Demand and Assessment Notice
Request for reconsideration- a plea for the re-evaluation of issued by the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative.
an assessment on the basis of existing records without need of Shall state the facts, the laws, rules and regulations, or jurisprudence
additional evidence. It may involve a question of fact or law or both. on which the assessment is based, otherwise, the formal letter of
demand and assessment notice shall be void.
Request for reinvestigation- a plea for reinvestigation of an
assessment on the basis of newly-discovered or additional evidence
that a taxpayer intends to present in the reinvestigation. It may also Formal Letter of Demand and Assessment Notice shall be sent
involve question of fact or law or both. to the taxpayer only by registered mail or personal delivery.

Issuance of Assessment If sent by personal delivery, the taxpayer or his duly authorized
representative shall acknowledge receipt thereof in the duplicate
copy of the letter of demand showing the following: (a) his name; (b)
Procedure signature; (c) designation and authority to act for and in behalf of the
taxpayer; if acknowledged or received by a person other than the
taxpayer himself; and (d) date of receipt thereof. (3.1.4. Revenue
Issuance of written a Preliminary Assessment Notice (PAN) after Regulations No. 12-99 dated Sept. 6, 1999).
review and evaluation by the Assessment Division or by the
Commissioner or his duly authorized representative, as the case may
be. A valid PAN shall be in writing stating the law and facts on which Disputed Assessment
the assessment is made. (Sec. 228 of the 1997 NIRC)

Taxpayer or his duly authorized representative may

Under Sec. 228 of the 1997 NIRC a Pre-Assessment Notice administratively protest against a Formal Letter of Demand and
shall not be required in the following cases: Assessment notice within thirty (30) days from date of receipt thereof.

If the protest is denied in whole or part, or is not acted upon

within one hundred eighty (180) days from submission of documents,
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

the taxpayer adversely affected by the decision or inaction may Effect of taxpayers failure to file an administrative protest or to
appeal to the CTA within 30 days from receipt of the said decision, or appeal BIRs decision to the CTA
from lapse of the one hundred (180)-day period: otherwise, the
decision shall become final and executory
As provided in Sec. 228 of the Tax Code, if the taxpayer
fails to file an administrative protest within the reglementary
Several issues in the assessment notice but taxpayer only 30-day from receipt of the assessment notice, assessment
disputes/protests validity of some of the issues becomes final.
After the lapse of the 30-day period, the assessment can
Taxpayer required to pay the deficiency tax or taxes
no longer be disputed either administratively or judicially
attributable to the undisputed issues.
through an appeal in the CTA.
Collection letter to be issued calling for the payment of
Assessed already tax collectible.
deficiency tax, including applicable surcharge and/or
interest.
No action shall be taken on the disputed issues until
payment of deficiency taxes on undisputed issues
Prescriptive period for assessment or collection of taxes on
disputed issues shall be suspended. Legal Basis

Failure of taxpayer to state the facts, the applicable law, rules and
Legal Principle of quasi-contracts or solutio indebiti (see
regulations, or jurisprudence on which his protest is based shall
Art. 2142 & 2154 of the Civil Code). The Government is within the
render his protest void and without force and effect.
scope of the principle of solutio indebiti (CIR vs. Firemans Fund
Insurance Co)
Contents:
Scope of Claims
a. Name of the taxpayer and address for the immediate
past three taxable years;
Under Sec. 204 and 209 of the 1997 NIRC the
b. Nature of request whether reinvestigation or
Commissioner may credit or refund taxes:
reconsideration specifying newly discovered evidence
that he intends to present it it is a request for
reinvestigation;
c. Taxable periods covered by the assessment; (a) Erroneously or illegally assessed or collected internal
d. Amounts and kind/s of tax involved, and Assessment revenue taxes
Notice Number; Taxpayer pays under the mistake of fact, as for
e. Date of receipt of assessment notice or letter of instance in a case where he is not aware of the existing exemption in
demand; his favor at the time payments were made
f. Itemized statement of the findings to which the
taxpayer agrees, if any, as a basis for computing the A tax is illegally collected if payments are made
tax due, which amount should be paid immediately under duress.
upon the filing of the protest. For this purpose, the (b) Penalties imposed without authority
protest shall not be deemed validly filed unless
payment of the agreed portion of the tax is paid first; (c) Any sum alleged to have been excessive or in any
g. Itemized schedule of the adjustments with which the manner wrongfully collected
taxpayer does not agree; The value of internal revenue stamps when they are
h. Statement of facts and/or law in support of the protest; returned in good condition by the purchaser may also be redeemed.
and
i. Documentary evidence as it may deem necessary and
relevant to support its protest to be submitted within Necessity of Proof for Refund Claims
sixty (60) days from the filing of the protest. If the
taxpayer fails to comply with this requirement, the
assessment shall become final (Revenue Regulation Refund claim partakes of the nature of an exemption which
No. 12-85, dated Nov. 27, 1985.) cannot be allowed unless granted in the most explicit and
A request for reconsideration or reinvestigation of an categorical language. (CIR vs. Johnson and Sons
assessment shall be accompanied by a waiver of the Statute of Failure to discharge burden of giving proof is fatal to claim
Limitations in favor of the Government. It must be shown that payment was an independent single
act of voluntary payment of a tax believed to be due,
collectible and accepted by the government, and which
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

therefore, become part of the state moneys subject to 2-year prescriptive period for filing of tax refund or credit
expenditure and perhaps already spent or appropriated claim computed from date of payment of tax of penalty
(CIR vs. Li Yao, L-11875, Dec. 28, 1963). except in the following:
TAX REFUND TAX CREDIT
Statutory Requirements for Refund Claims
There is actually a The government issues a tax
reimbursement of the tax credit memo covering the
a. Written claim for refund or tax credit filed by the taxpayer amount determined to be
with the Commissioner reimbursable which can be
applied after proper
This requirement is mandatory. verification, against any sum
Reasons: (a) to afford the commissioner an opportunity to that may be due and
correct the action of subordinate officer and (b) to notify the collectible form the taxpayer
government that the taxes sought to be refunded are under
question and that, therefore, such notice should then be
borne in mind in estimating the revenue available for
expenditure (Bermejo vs. CIR 87 Phil 96).
Except: Tax credit or tax refund where on the face of the Corporations
return upon which payment is made, such payment 2-year prescriptive period for overpaid quarterly
appears clearly to have been erroneous. (Sec. 229, 1997 income tax is counted not from the date the corporation
NIRC). files its quarterly income tax return, but from the date the
final adjusted return is filed after the taxable year
b. Categorical demand for reimbursement (Commissioner of Internal Revenue vs. TMX Sales, Inc.,
G.R. No. 83736, Jan. 15, 1992).

c. Claim for refund or tax credit must be filed or the suit

proceeding thereof must be commenced in court within two (2) Taxes payable in installment
years from date of payment of tax or penalty regardless of any 2-year period is counted form the payment of the last
supervening event. (Sec. 204 (c) & 229 1997 NIRC) installment (CIR vs Palanca, Jr., supra)

Requirement a condition precedent and non-compliance Withholding Taxes

therewith bars recovery (Phil. Acetylene Co. Inc, vs.
Commissioner, CTA Case No. 1321, Nov. 7, 1962). Prescriptive period counted not from the date the tax
Refers not only to the administrative claim that the is withheld and remitted to the BIR, but from the end of the
taxpayer should file within 2 years from date of payments taxable year (Gibbs vs. Commissioner of Internal Revenue,
with the BIR, but also the judicial claim or the action for supra)
refund the taxpayer should commence with the CTA (see
Gibbs vs.. Collector of Internal Revenue, 107 Phil 232).
Taxpayer may file an action for refund in the CTA even VAT Registered Person whose sales are zero-rated or effectively
before the Commissioner decides his pending claim in the zero-rated
BIR (Commissioner of Internal Revenue vs. Palanca Jr., L- 2-year period computed from the end of the taxable
16626, Oct. 29, 1966). quarter when the sales transactions were made (Sec. 112
Suspension of the 2-yaer prescriptive period may be had (A) 1997 NIRC).
when:
(1) there is a pending litigation between the two
parties (government and taxpayer) as to the proper
Interest on Tax Refund
tax to be paid and of the proper interpretation of the
taxpayers charter in relation to the disputed tax; and
(2) the commissioner in that litigated case agreed to The Government cannot be required to pay interest on
abide by the decision of the Supreme Court as to the taxes refunded to the taxpayer unless:
collection of taxes relative thereto (Panay Electric Co.,
1. The Commissioner acted with patent arbitrariness
Inc. vs. Collector of Internal Revenue 103 Phil. 819)
Arbitrariness presupposes inexcusable or obstinate
Even if the 2-year period has lapsed the same is not
disregard of legal provisions (CIR vs. Victorias Milling Corp., Inc. L-
jurisdictional and may be suspended for reasons of equity
19607, Nov. 29, 1966).
and other special circumstances. (CIR vs. Phil. American
Life Ins. Co., G.R. No. 105208, May 29, 1995).
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

2. In case of Income Tax withheld on the wages of c. Suit or proceeding is instituted in the CTA also within
employees. the same prescriptive period of two years from the
date of payment regardless of any supervening cause.
Any excess of the taxes withheld over the tax due from the
(see Secs. 204, 229 1997 NIRC).
taxpayer shall be returned or credited within 3 months from the
fifteenth (15th) day of April. Refund or credit after such time earn
interest at the rate of 6% per annum, starting after the lapse of the 3- ACTION CONTESTING FORFEITURE OF CHATTEL
month period to the date the reund or credit is made ( Sec 79 (c) (2)
1997 NIRC)
In case of seizure of personal property under claim for forfeiture,
the owner desiring to contest the validity of the forfeiture may bring
APPEAL to the CTA an action:
a. Before sale or destruction of the property to recover the
property from the person seizing the property or in
Adverse decision or ruling rendered by the Commissioner
possession thereof upon filing of the proper bond to enjoin
of Internal Revenue in disputed assessment or claim for tax
the sale.
refund or credit, taxpayer may appeal the same within thirty
b. After the sale and within 6 months to recover the net
(30) days after receipt. (Sec. 11, R.A. No. 1125)
proceeds realized at the sale (see. Sec. 231, 1997 NIRC)
Appeal equivalent to a judicial action
Action is partakes of the nature of an ordinary civil action for
In the absence of appeal, the decision becomes final and
recovery of personal property or the net proceeds of its sale which
executory. But where the taxpayer adversely affected has
must be brought in the ordinary courts and not the CTA.
not received the decision or ruling, he could not appeal the
same to the CTA within 30 days from notice. Hence, it
could not become final and executory. (Republic vs. De la
ACTION FOR DAMAGES AGAINST REVENUE OFFICIALS
Rama, 18 SCRA 861)
Motion for reconsideration suspends the running of the 30
day period of perfecting an appeal. Must advance new
Taxpayer may file an action for damages against any internal
grounds not previously alleged to toll the reglementary
revenue officer by reason of any act done in the performance of
period; otherwise, it would be merely pro forma. (Roman
official duty or neglect of duty. In case of willful neglect of duty,
Catholic Archbishop vs. Coll., L-16683, Jan. 31, 1962).
taxpayers recourse is under Art 27 of the Civil Code.

Requirements for Appeal in Disputed Assessment

Revenue officer acting negligently or in bad faith or with willful
oppression would be personally liable. He ceases to be an officer of
a. Tax assessed has not been paid; the law and becomes a private wrongdoer.
b. Taxpayer has filed with the Commissioner of Internal
Revenue a petition for the reconsideration or
cancellation of the assessment; FILING OF CRIMINAL COMPLAINT AGAINST REVENUE
c. Final decision or ruling has been rendered on such OFFICERS
petition;
d. Suit or proceeding in the CTA is made within 30 days
from receipt of the decision A taxpayer may file a criminal complaint against any official,
agent or employee of the BIR or any other agency charged with the
Effect of Failure to Appeal Assessment enforcement of the provisions of the Tax Code who commits any of
the following offenses:

a. Taxpayer barred, in an action for collection of the tax

by the government, from using defense of excessive 1) Extortion or willful oppression through the use of his office;
or illegal assessment. 2) Willful oppression and harassment of a taxpayer who
b. Assessment is considered correct. refused, declined, turned down or rejected any of his offers
mentioned in no. 5;
3) Knowingly demanding or receiving sums or compensation
Requirements for Appeal in Refund and Tax Credit not authorized or prescribed by law;
4) Willfully neglecting to give receipts as by law required or to
perform any other duties enjoined by law;
a. Tax has been paid; 5) Offering or undertaking to accomplish, file or submit a
b. Taxpayer has filed with the CIR a written claim for report or assessment on a txpayer without the appropriate
refund or tax credit within 2 years from payment of the examination of the books of account or tax liability, or
tax or penalty; and offering or undertaking to submit a report or assessment
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less than the amount due the government for any 3. Sale of Property
consideration or compensation; or conspiring or colluding
with another or others to defraud the revenues or otherwise Property in the customs custody shall be subject to
violate the provisions of the tax code; sale under the following conditions;
6) Neglecting or by design permitting the violation of the law
or any false certificate or return; a. abandoned articles;
7) Making or signing any false entry or entries in any book, or
nay false certificate or return; b. articles entered under warehousing entry
8) allowing or conspiring or colluding with another to allow the not withdrawn nor the duties and taxes
unauthorized withdrawal or recall of any return or paid thereon within the period provided
statement after the same has been officially received by the under Section 1908, TCC;
BIR;
9) Having knowledge or information of any violation of the Tax c. seized property, other than contraband, after
Code, failure to report such knowledge or information to liability to sale shall have been established
their superior officer, or as otherwise required by law; ND by proper administrative or judicial
10) Without the authority of law, demanding or accepting proceedings in conformity with the provision
money or other things of value fore the compromise or of this code: and
settlement of any charge or complaint for any violation of
the Tax Code. (see. Sec. 269, 1997 NIRC) d. Any articles subject to a valid lien for
Remedies under the customs duties, taxes or other charges
Tariff and Customs Code collectible by the Bureau of Customs, after
the expiration of the period allowed for the
A. Government Remedies: satisfaction of the same.

a. Extrajudicial Note: Goods in the collectors possession or of

Customs authorities pending payment of customs
1. Enforcement or tax lien duties are beyond the reach of attachment.

A tax lien attaches on the goods, regardless of b. Judicial Action

the ownership while still in the custody or control
of the government The tax liability of the importer constitutes a personal debt
to the government, enforceable by action (Sec. 1204, TCC)
Proceeds of sale are applied to the tax due. Any
deficiency or excess is for the account or credit, This is availed of when the tax lien is lost by the release of
respectively of the taxpayer the goods.

This is availed of when the importation is neither

nor improperly made B. Taxpayers Remedies

Administrative Recourse
2. Seizures
Claim for refunda written claim for refund may be
Generally applied when the penalty is fine or submitted by the importer:
forfeiture which is imposed when the importation
is unlawful and it may be exercised even where
the articles are not or no longer in Customs 1. In abatement uses such as:
Custody, unless the importation is merely
attempted. a. on missing packages;

In the case of attempted importation, b. deficiencies in the contents of packages or

administrative fine or forfeiture may be affected shortage before arrival of the goods in the
only; Philippines;

a. while the goods are still within the customs c. articles lost or destroyed after such arrival,
jurisdiction, or
d. articles lost or destroyed
b. in the hands or under the control of the
importer or person who is aware thereof. e. dead or injured animals; and
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

f. for manifest classical errors; (see section 1701-

1708, TCC) Judicial

2. Judicial relief 7. Civil Action

In drawback cases where the goods are re-exported 8. Criminal Action

a. Protest Distraint of Personal Property

see the earlier discussions on Customs Protest Distraint- Seizure by the government of personal property,
Cases tangible or intangible, to enforce the payment of faces, to be followed
by its public sale, if the taxes are not voluntarily paid.
b. In seizure cases
c. Actual There is taking of possession of personal property
see earlier discussion on the subject out of the taxpayer into that of the government. In case of
intangible property. Taxpayer is also diverted of the power
c. Settlement of case by the payment of fine or of control over the property;
redemption of forfeited property
d. Constructive The owner is merely prohibited from
see earlier discussions on the subject disposing of his personal property.

Note: The owner or importer may abandon either Actual Distraint. Constructive Distraint
expressly or By importation in favor of the May be made on the property of
Government thus relieving himself of the tax liability Made on the property only of a
any taxpayer whether
but not from the possible criminal liability. delinquent taxpayer.
delinquent or not
There is actual taking or Taxpayer is merely prohibited
The taxpayer may appeal to the Court of Appeals possession of the property. from disposing of his property.
which has exclusive jurisdiction to review decisions of Effected by having a list of the Effected by requiring the
the Commissioner of Custom in cases involving: distraint property or by service or taxpayer to sign a receipt of the
warrant of distraint or property or by leaving a list of
a) liability for customs duties, fees or other money garnishment. same
charges; Such immediate step is not
b) seizures, detention or release of property An immediate step for collection
necessary; tax due may not be
affected; of taxes where amount due is
definite or it is being
definite.
questioned.
c) fines forfeitures or other penalties imposed in
relation thereto; and
Requisites:
d) other matters arising under the customs Law or
other laws administered by the Revenue of 5. Taxpayer is delinquent in the payment of tax.
Customs.
6. Subsequent demand for its payment.
Remedies of the Government
7. Taxpayer must fail to pay delinquent tax at time required.
Enumeration of the Remedies
8. Period with in to assess or collect has not yet prescribed. In
Administrative case of constructive distraint, requisite no. 1 is not
essential (see Sec. 206 TC)
1. Distraint of Personal Property
When remedy not available:
2. Levy of Real Property
Where amount involved does not exceed P100 (Sec. 205
3. Tax Lien TC). In keeping with the provision on the abatement of the collection
of tax as the cost of same might even be more than P100.
4. Compromise
Procedure:
5. Forfeiture
5. Service of warrant of distraint upon taxpayer or upon
6. Other Administrative Remedies person in possession of taxpayers personal property.
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San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

4. Bank shall turn over to CIR so much of the

6. Posting of notice is not less than two places in the bank accounts as may be sufficient.
municipality or city and notice to the taxpayer specifying
time and place of sale and the articles distrained. How constructive Distraint Effected

7. Sale at public auction to highest bidder 3. Require taxpayer or person in possession to

8. Disposition of proceeds of the sale. a. Sign a receipt covering property distrained

b. Obligate him to preserve the same properties.

c. Prohibit him from disposing the property from

Who may effect distraint Amount Involved disposing the property in any manner, with out the
3. commissioner or his due authorized In excess of authority of the CIR.
representative P1,000,000.00
P1,000,000.00 or 4. Where Taxpayer or person in possession refuses to sign:
4. RDO less
a. Officer shall prepare list of the property distrained.

b. In the presence of two witnesses of sufficient age and

How Actual Distraint Effected discretion, leave a copy in the premises where
property is located.
3. In case of Tangible Property:
Grounds of Constructive Distraint
a. Copy of an account of the property distrained,
signed by the officer, left either with the owner or 6. Taxpayer is retiring from any business subject to tax.
person from whom property was taken, at the
dwelling or place of business and with someone 7. Taxpayer is intending to leave the Philippines; or
of suitable age and discretion
8. To remove his property there from.
b. Statement of the sum demanded.
9. Taxpayer hides or conceals his property.
c. Time and place of sale.
10. Taxpayer acts tending to obstruct collection proceedings.
4. In case of intangible property:
Note:
a. Stocks and other securities
4. Bank accounts may be distrained with out violating the
Serving a copy of the warrant upon taxpayer and confidential nature of bank accounts for no inquiry is made.
upon president, manager, treasurer or other BIR simply seizes so much of the deposit with out having to
responsible officer of the issuing corporation, know how much the deposits are or where the money or
company or association. any part of it came from.

b. Debts and credits 5. If at any time prior to the consummation of the sale, all
proper charges are paid to the officer conducting the same,
3. Leaving a copy of the warrant with the the goods distrained shall be restored to the owner.
person owing the debts or having in his
possession such credits or his agent. 6. When the amount of the bid for the property under distraint
is not equal to the amount of the tax or is very much less
4. Warrant shall be sufficient authority for such than the actual market value of articles, the CIR or his
person to pay CIR his credits or debts. deputy may purchase the distrained property on behalf of
the national government.
c. Bank Accounts garnishment
Levy of Real Property
3. Serve warrant upon taxpayer and president,
manager, treasurer or responsible officer of Levy Act of seizure of real property in order to enforce the
the bank. payment of taxes. The property may be sold at public sale, if after
seizure; the taxes are not voluntarily paid. The requisites are the
same as that of distraint.
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

8. Distraint personal property

Procedure:
Levy real property
7. International Revenue officer shall prepare a duly
authenticated certificate showing 9. Distraint forfeiture by government, not provided

a. Name of taxpayer Levy forfeiture by government authorized where there is

no bidder or the highest bid is not sufficient to pay the
b. Amount of tax and taxes, penalties and costs.

c. Penalty due. 10. Distraint Taxpayer no given the right of redemption

Levy Taxpayer can redeem properties levied upon and

- enforceable through out the Philippines sold/forfeited to the government.

8. Officer shall write upon the certificate a description of the Note:

property upon which levy is made.
5. It is the duty of the Register of Deeds concerned upon
9. Service of written notice to: registration of the declaration of forfeiture, to transfer the
title to the property with out of an order from a competent
c. The taxpayer, and court
6. The remedy of distraint or levy may be repeated if
d. RD where property is located. necessary until the full amount, including all expenses, is
collected.
10. Advertisement of the time and place of sale.
Enforcement of Tax Lien
11. Sale at public auction to highest bidder.
Tax Liena legal claim or charge on property, either real or
12. Disposition of proceeds of sale. personal, established by law as a security in default of the payment
of taxes.
The excess shall be turned over to owner.
2. Nature:
Redemption of property sold or forfeited
A lien in favor of the government of the Philippines when a
e. Person entitled: Taxpayer or anyone for him person liable to pay a tax neglects or fails to do so upon
demand.\
f. Time to redeem: one year from date of sale or forfeiture
3. Duration:
- Begins from registration of the deed of sale or
declaration of forfeiture. Exists from time assessment is made by the CIR until paid,
with interests, penalties and costs.
- Cannot be extended by the courts.
7. Extent:
g. Possession pending redemption owner not deprived of
possession Upon all property and rights to property belonging to the
taxpayer.
h. Price: Amount of taxes, penalties and interest thereon from
date of delinquency to the date of sale together with 8. Effectivity against third persons:
interest on said purchase price at 15% per annum from
date of purchase to date of redemption. Only when notice of such lien is filed by the CIR in the
Register of Deeds concerned.

Distraint and Levy compared Extinguishment of Tax Lien

6. Both are summary remedies for collection of taxes. 5. Payment or remission of the tax

7. Both cannot be availed of where amount involved is not 6. Prescription of the right of the government to assess or
more than P100. collect.
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

7. Failure to file notice of such lien in the office of register of a. 10% of the basic tax assessed in case of
Deeds, purchases or judgment creditor. financial incapacity.

8. Destruction of the property subject to the lien. b. 40% of basic tax assessed other cases.

In case Nos. 1 and 2, there is no more tax liability. Under 4. Subject to approval of Evaluation Board
nos. 3 and 4, the taxpayer is still liable.
c. When basic tax involved exceeds P1,000,000.00
Enforcement of Tax Lien vs. Distraint or

A tax lien is distinguished from disttraint in that, in distraint d. Where settlement offered is less than the
the property seized must be that of the taxpayer, although it need not prescribed minimum rates.
be the property in respect to the tax is assessed. Tax lien is directed
to the property subject to the tax, regardless of its owner. Delegation of Power to Compromise

Note: General Rule: The power to compromise or abate shall not

be delegated by the commissioner.
3. This is superior to judgment claim of private individuals or
parties Exception: The Regional Evaluation Board may
compromise the assessment issued by the regional offices involving
4. Attaches not only from time the warrant was served but basic taxes of P 500 K or less.
from the time the tax was due and demandable.
Remedy in case of failure to comply:
Compromise
The CIR may either:
Compromisea contract whereby the parties, by reciprocal
concessions, avoid litigation or put an end to one already 3. enforce the compromise, or
commenced.
4. Regard it as rescinded and insists upon the original
Requisites: demand.

4. Taxpayer must have a tax liability. Compromise Penalty

5. There must be an offer by taxpayer or CIR, of an amount to 4. It is a certain amount of money which the taxpayer pays to
be paid by taxpayer. compromise a tax violation.

6. There must be acceptance of the offer in settlement of the 5. It is pain in lieu of a criminal prosecution.
original claim.
6. Since it is voluntary in character, the same may be
When taxes may be compromised: collected only if the taxpayer is willing to pay them.

4. A reasonable doubt as to the validity if the claim against the Enforcement of forfeiture
taxpayer exists;
Forfeitureimplies a divestiture of property with out
5. The financial position of the taxpayer demonstrates a clear compensation, in consequence of a default or offense. It includes the
inability to pay the assessed tax. idea of not only losing but also having the property transferred to
another with out the consent of the owner and wrongdoer.
6. Criminal violations, except:
8. Effect: Transfer the title to the specific thing from the owner
a. Those already filed in court to the government.

b. Those involving fraud. 9. When available:

a. No bidder for the real property exposed for sale.

Limitations: b. If highest bid is for an amount insufficient to pay

the taxes, penalties and costs.
3. Minimum compromise rate:
- With in two days thereafter, a return of the proceeding
is duly made.
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

10. How enforced: f. Personal entitled taxpayer or anyone for him

c. In case of personal property by seizure and g. Time to redeem with in one (1) year from
sale or destruction of the specific forfeited forfeiture
property.
h. Amount to be paid full amount of the taxes and
d. In case of real property by a judgment of penalties, plus interest and cost of the sale
condemnation and sale in a legal action or
proceeding, civil or criminal, as the case may i. To whom paid Commissioner or the Revenue
require. Collection Officer

j. Effect of failure to redeem forfeiture shall

11. When forfeited property to be destroyed or sold: become absolute.

c. To be destroyed by order of the CIR when the

sale for consumption or use of the following Note: The Register of Deeds is duty bound to transfer the title of
would be injurious to the public health or property forfeited to the government with our necessity of an order
prejudicial to the enforcement of the law: (at from a competent court.
least 20 days after seizure)
Other Administrative Remedies
1. distilled spirits
4. Requiring filing of bonds in the following instances:
2. liquors
a. Estate and donors tax
3. cigars
b. Excise taxes
4. cigarettes, and other manufactured products
of tobacco c. Exporters bond

5. playing cards d. Manufacturers and importers bond

6. All apparatus used in or about the illicit 5. Requiring proof of filing income tax returns
production of such articles.
Before a license to engage in trade, business or occupation
or to practice a profession can be issued.
d. To be sold or destroyed depends upon the
discretion of CIR 6. Giving reward to informers Sum equivalent to 10% of
revenues, surcharges or fees recovered and/or fine or
3. All other articles subject to exercise tax, penalty imposed and collected or P1, 000,000.00 per case,
(wine, automobile, mineral products, whichever is lower.
manufactured oils, miscellaneous products,
non-essential items a petroleum products) 7. Imposition of surcharge and interest.
manufactured or removed in violation of the
Tax Code. 8. Making arrest, search and seizure
4. Dies for printing or making IR stamps, labels
and tags, in imitation of or purport to be Limited to violations of any penal law or regulation
lawful stamps, labels or tags. administered by the BIR, committed with in the view of the
Internal Revenue Officer or EE.

12. Where to be sold: 9. Deportation in case of aliens on the following grounds

c. Public sale: provided, there is notice of not less c. Knowingly and fraudulently evades payment of IR
than 20 days. taxes.

d. Private sale: provided, it is with the approval of d. Willfully refuses to pay such tax and its accessory
the Secretary of Finance. penalties, after decision on his tax liability shall have
become final and executory.
13. Right of Redemption:
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

10. Inspection of books

D. Criminal Action
Books of accounts and other accounting records of
taxpayer must be preserved, generally within three years A direct mode of collection of taxes, the judgment of which
after date the tax return was due or was filed whichever is shall not only impose the penalty but also order payment
later. of taxes.

11. Use of National Tax Register An assessment of a tax deficiency is not necessary to a
criminal prosecution for tax evasion, provided there is a
12. Obtaining information on tax liability of any person prima facie showing of willful attempt to evade.

Effect of Acquittal on Tax Liability:

13. Inventory Taking of stock-in-trade and making
surveillance. Does not exonerate taxpayer his civil liability to pay the tax
due. Thus, the government may still collect the tax in the same
14. Prescribing presumptive gross sales or receipt: action.
Reason: Tax is an obligation, does not arise from a criminal act.

c. Person failed to issue receipts and invoices Effect of Satisfaction of Tax Liability on Criminal Liability

d. Reason to believe that records do not correctly reflect Will not operate to extinguish taxpayers criminal liability
declaration in return.\ since the duty to pay the tax is imposed by statute, independent of
any attempt on past of taxpayers to evade payment.
15. Prescribing real property values
This is true in case the criminal action is based on the act
16. Inquiring into bank deposit accounts of to taxpayer of filing a false and fraudulent tax return and failure to
pay the tax.
c. A deceased person to determine gross estate
Note: The satisfaction of civil liability is not one of the grounds for the
d. Any taxpayer who filed application for compromise by extinction of criminal action.
reasons of financial incapacity his tax liability.

17. Registration of Taxpayers.

Judicial Remedies
Prescriptive Periods /
Civil and Criminal Actions: Statute Of Limitation

1. Brought in the name of the Government of the Philippines. Purpose:

2. Conducted by Legal Officer of BIR For purposes of Taxation, statue of limitation is primarily
designed to protect the rights of the taxpayers against unreasonable
3. Must be with the approval of the CIR, in case of action, for investigation of the taxing authority with respect to assessment and
recovery of taxes, or enforcement of a fine, penalty or collection of Internal Revenue Taxes.
forfeiture.
Prescription of Governments Right to Assess Taxes:

C. Civil Action General Rule: Internal Revenue Taxes shall be assessed within three
(3) years after the last day prescribed by law for the filing of the
Actions instituted by the government to collect internal return or from the day the return was filed, in case it is filed beyond
revenue taxes in regular courts (RTC or MTCs, depending the period prescribed thereof. (Section 203 of the Tax Code)
on the amount involved)
Note:
When assessment made has become final and executory
for failure or taxpayer to: 1. A return filed before the last day prescribed by law for the
filing thereof shall be considered as filed on such last day.
c. Dispute same by filing protest with CIR
2. In case a return is substantially amended, the government
d. Appeal adverse decision of CIR to CTA right to assess the tax shall commence from the filing of the
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

amended return (CIR vs. Phoenix, May 20, 1965; Kei & Co. e. Intentional and substantial overstatement of
vs. Collector, 4 SCRA 872) deductions of exemption

3. In computing the prescriptive period for assessment, the f. Recurrence of the foregoing circumstances.
latter is deemed made when notice to this effect is
released, mailed or sent by the Commissioner to the Instances/Circumstances negating fraud:
correct address of the taxpayer. However, the law does not
require that the demand/notice be received within the a. When the Commissioner fails impute fraud in the
prescriptive period. (Basilan Estates, Inc. vs. assessment notice/demand for payment.
Commissioner 21, SCRA 17; Republic vs. CA April 30,
1987) b. When the Commissioner failed to allege in his answer
to the taxpayers petition for review when the case is
4. An affidavit executed by a revenue office indicating the tax appealed to the CTA.
liabilities of a taxpayer and attached to a criminal complaint
for tax evasion, cannot be deemed an assessment. ( CIR c. When the Commissioner raised the question of fraud
vs. Pascoi Realty Corp. June 29, 1999) only for the first time in his memorandum which was
filed the CTA after he had rested his case.
5. A transcript sheets are not returns, because they do not
contain information necessary and required to permit the d. Where the BIR itself appeared, not sure as to the
computation and assessment of taxes (Sinforo Alca vs. real amount of the taxpayers net income.
Commissioner, Dec. 29, 1964)
e. A mere understatement of income does not prove
fraud, unless there is a sufficient evidence shaving
fraudulent intent.
Exceptions: (Sec. 222 ic)
7. Where the commissioner and the taxpayer, before the
5. Where no return was filed - within ten (10) years after the expiration of the three (3) year period of limitation have
date of discovery of the omission. agreed in writing to the extension of said period.

6. Where a return was filed but the same was false or Note: Limitations:
fraudulent within ten (10) years from the discovery of
falsity or fraud. c. The agreement extending the period of prescription
should be in writing and duly signed by the taxpayer
Nature of Fraud: and the commissioner.

a. Fraud is never presumed and the circumstances d. The agreement to extend the same should be mode
consisting it must be alleged and proved to exist by before the expiration of the period previously agreed
clear & convincing evidence (Republic vs. Keir, Sept. upon.
30, 1966)
8. Where there is a written waiver or renunciation of the
b. The fraud contemplated by law is actual and not original 3-year limitation signed by the taxpayer.
constructive. It must amount to intentional
wrongdoing with the sole object of avoiding the tax. A Note: Limitations:
mere mistake is not a fraudulent intent. (Aznar case,
Aug. 23, 1974) d. The waiver to be valid must be executed by the
parties before the lapse of the prescriptive period.
c. A fraud assessment which has become final and
executory, the fact of fraud shall be judicially taken e. A waiver is inefficient I it is executed beyond the
cognizance of in the civil or criminal action for the original three year.
collection thereof. (Sec. 222 paragraph (a))
f. The commissioner can not valid agree to reduce the
prescriptive period to less than that granted by law.
Fraud may be established by the following : (Badges
of Fraud)
Imprescriptible Assessments:
d. Intentional and substantial understatement of tax
liability of the taxpayer. 1. Where the law does not provide for any particular period of
assessment, the tax sought to be assessed becomes
imprescriptible.
 TAX ATION
San Beda College of LAW ALABANG

the prescriptive period for collection should be

2. Where no return is required by law, the tax is counted from the last assessment. (Rep. vs. Lopez,
imprescriptible. March 30, 1963)

12. Where the assessment is revised because of an

3. Assessment of unpaid taxes, where the bases of which is amended return the period for collection is counted
not required by law to be reported in a return such as from the last revised assessment.
excise taxes. (Carmen vs. Ayala Securities Corp., Nov. 21,
1980) 13. Where a tax obligation is secured by a surety bond
the government may proceed thru a court action to
4. Assessment of compensating and documentary stamp tax. forfeit a bond and enforce such contractual obligation
within a period of ten years.

14. Where the action is brought to enforce a compromise

entered into between the commission and the
taxpayer the prescriptive period is ten years.
Prescription of Governments
Right to Collect Taxes F. When tax is deemed collected for purposes of the
prescriptive period.
D. General Rule:
4. Collection by summary remedies It is effected by
1. Where an assessment was made Any internal summary methods when the government avail of
revenue tax which has been assessed within the distraint and levy procedure.
period of limitation may be collected by distraint or
levy or by proceeding in court within 5 years following 5. Collection by judicial action The collection begins by
the date of assessment. filing the complaint with the proper court. (RTC)

2. Where no assessment was made and a return was 6. Where assessment of the commissioner is protected
filed and the same is not fraudulent or false- the tax & appealed to the CTA the collection begin when the
should be collected within 3 years after the return was government file its answer to taxpayers petition for
due or was filed, whichever is later. review.

E. Exceptions:

8. Where a fraudulent/false return with intent to evade Rules of Prescription in Criminal Cases
taxes was filed a proceeding in court for the collection
of the tax may be filed without assessment, at anytime Rule: All violations of any provision of the tax code shall
within ten years after the discovery of the falsity or prescribe after five (5) years.
fraud.
Note:
Note: The 10-year prescriptive period for collector thru
action does not apply if it appears that there was an When it should commence?
assessment. In such case, the ordinary 5-year period
(now 3 years) would apply (Rep. vs. Ret., March 31, The five (5) year prescriptive period shall begin to run from
1962) the:

9. When the taxpayer omits to file a return a court c. Day of the commission of the violation, if know.
proceeding for the collection of such tax may be filed
without assessment, at anytime within 10 years after d. If not known, from the time of discovery and the institution
the discovery of the omission. of judicial proceeding for its investigation and punishment.

10. Waiver of statute of limitations any internal revenue When it is interrupted:

tax, which has been assessed within the period
agreed upon, may be collected be distinct or levy of by c. When a proceeding is instituted against the guilty person
a proceeding in court within the period agreed upon in
writing before the expiration of 5-year period. d. When the offender is absent from the Philippines.

11. Where the government makes another assessment on

the basis of reinvestigation requested by the taxpayer When it should run again:
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e. When the warrant of distraint or levy is duly

When the proceeding is dismissed for reason not served upon any of the following person:
Constituting jeopardy.
4. taxpayer
When does the defense of prescription may be
raised: 5. his authorized representative

c. In civil case If not raised in the lower court, it is bailed 6. Member of his household with
permanently; if can not be raised for the first time on sufficient discretion and no property could
appeal. be located.

d. In criminal case It can be raised even if the case has f. When the taxpayer is out of the Philippines.
been decided by the lower court but pending decision on
appeal. g. In criminal cases for violation of tax code the
period shall not run when the offender is absent
from the Philippines.
Interruption of the Prescriptive Period
Note: A petition for reconsideration of a tax assessment
4. Where before the expiration of the time prescribed for the does not suspend the criminal action. Reason: No
assessment of the tax, both the commissioner and the requirement for assessment of the tax before the
taxpayer have consented in writing to its assessment after criminal action may be instituted.
such time, the tax may be assessed prior to the expiration
of the period agreed upon. Nota Bene:

5. The running of statute of limitations on making an 6. The law on prescription remedial measure should be
assessment and the beginning of distraint/levy or a interpreted liberally in order to protect the taxpayer.
proceeding in court for collection shall be suspended for
the period. 7. The defense of prescription must be raised by the taxpayer
on time, otherwise it is deemed waived.
During which the Commissioner is prohibited from making 8. The question of prescription is not jurisdictional, and as
the assessment or beginning distraint/levy or a proceeding defense it must be raised reasonably otherwise it is
in court and for 60 days thereafter; e.g. deemed waived.

a. Filing a petition for review in the CTA from the decision 9. The prescriptive provided in the tax code over ride the
of the Commissioner. The commissioner is prevented statute of non-claims in the settlement of the deceaseds
from filing an ordinary action to collect the tax. estate.

b. When CTA suspends the collection of tax liability of 10. In the event that the collection of the tax has already
the taxpayer pursuant to Section 11 of RA 1125 upon prescribed, the government cannot invoke the principle of
proof that its collection may jeopardizes the Equitable recumbent by setting- off the prescribed tax
government and /or the taxpayer. against a tax refused to which the taxpayer is entitled.

c. When the taxpayer requests for reinvestigation _______________________________________________________

which is granted by commissioner. SOME IMPORTANT PROVISIONS ON THE TAX REFORM ACT OF
1997
Note: A mere request for reinvestigation without
any action or the part of the Commissioner does SEC. 2. Powers and Duties of the Bureau of Internal
not interrupt the running of the prescriptive Revenue . - The Bureau of Internal Revenue shall be under
period. The request must not be a mere pro- the supervision and control of the Department of Finance
former. Substantial issues must be raised. and its powers and duties shall comprehend the
assessment and collection of all national internal revenue
d. When the taxpayer cannot be located in the taxes, fees, and charges, and the enforcement of all
address given by him in the return. forfeitures, penalties, and fines connected therewith,
including the execution of judgments in all cases decided in
Note: If the taxpayer informs the Commissioner its favor by the Court of Tax Appeals and the ordinary
of any change in address the statute will not be courts. The Bureau shall give effect to and administer the
suspended. supervisory and police powers conferred to it by this Code
or other laws.
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SEC. 3. Chief Officials of the Bureau of Internal authorized representative at a time and place
Revenue. - The Bureau of Internal Revenue shall have a specified in the summons and to produce such
chief to be known as Commissioner of Internal Revenue, books, papers, records, or other data, and to give
hereinafter referred to as the Commissioner and four (4) testimony;
assistant chiefs to be known as Deputy Commissioners.
SEC. 4. Power of the Commissioner to Interpret Tax (D) To take such testimony of the person
Laws and to Decide Tax Cases. - The power to interpret concerned, under oath, as may be relevant or
the provisions of this Code and other tax laws shall be material to such inquiry; and
under the exclusive and original jurisdiction of the
Commissioner, subject to review by the Secretary of (E) To cause revenue officers and employees to
Finance. make a canvass from time to time of any revenue
district or region and inquire after and concerning
The power to decide disputed assessments, refunds of all persons therein who may be liable to pay any
internal revenue taxes, fees or other charges, penalties internal revenue tax, and all persons owning or
imposed in relation thereto, or other matters arising under having the care, management or possession of
this Code or other laws or portions thereof administered by any object with respect to which a tax is imposed.
the Bureau of Internal Revenue is vested in the
Commissioner, subject to the exclusive appellate
jurisdiction of the Court of Tax Appeals. The provisions of the foregoing paragraphs
notwithstanding, nothing in this Section shall be
SEC. 5. Power of the Commissioner to Obtain construed as granting the Commissioner the
Information, and to Summon, Examine, and Take authority to inquire into bank deposits other than
Testimony of Persons. - In ascertaining the correctness as provided for in Section 6(F) of this Code.
of any return, or in making a return when none has been
made, or in determining the liability of any person for any SEC. 6. Power of the Commissioner to Make
internal revenue tax, or in collecting any such liability, or in assessments and Prescribe additional Requirements
evaluating tax compliance, the Commissioner is for Tax Administration and Enforcement. -
authorized: (A) Examination of Returns and Determination of
(A) To examine any book, paper, record, or other Tax Due. - After a return has been filed as
data which may be relevant or material to such required under the provisions of this Code, the
inquiry; Commissioner or his duly authorized
representative may authorize the examination of
(B) To obtain on a regular basis from any person any taxpayer and the assessment of the correct
other than the person whose internal revenue tax amount of tax: Provided, however; That failure to
liability is subject to audit or investigation, or from file a return shall not prevent the Commissioner
any office or officer of the national and local from authorizing the examination of any
governments, government agencies and taxpayer.
instrumentalities, including the Bangko Sentral ng Any return, statement of declaration filed in any
Pilipinas and government-owned or -controlled office authorized to receive the same shall not be
corporations, any information such as, but not withdrawn: Provided, That within three (3) years
limited to, costs and volume of production, from the date of such filing, the same may be
receipts or sales and gross incomes of modified, changed, or amended: Provided, further,
taxpayers, and the names, addresses, and That no notice for audit or investigation of such
financial statements of corporations, mutual fund return, statement or declaration has in the
companies, insurance companies, regional meantime been actually served upon the taxpayer.
operating headquarters of multinational (B) Failure to Submit Required Returns,
companies, joint accounts, associations, joint Statements, Reports and other Documents. -
ventures of consortia and registered When a report required by law as a basis for the
partnerships, and their members; assessment of any national internal revenue tax
shall not be forthcoming within the time fixed by
(C) To summon the person liable for tax or laws or rules and regulations or when there is
required to file a return, or any officer or reason to believe that any such report is false,
employee of such person, or any person having incomplete or erroneous, the Commissioner shall
possession, custody, or care of the books of assess the proper tax on the best evidence
accounts and other accounting records obtainable.
containing entries relating to the business of the In case a person fails to file a required return or
person liable for tax, or any other person, to other document at the time prescribed by law, or
appear before the Commissioner or his duly willfully or otherwise files a false or fraudulent
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return or other document, the Commissioner shall penalties hereafter prescribed, unless paid within
make or amend the return from his own knowledge the time fixed in the demand made by the
and from such information as he can obtain Commissioner.
through testimony or otherwise, which shall be
prima facie correct and sufficient for all legal (E) Authority of the Commissioner to Prescribe
purposes. Real Property Values. - The Commissioner is
hereby authorized to divide the Philippines into
(C) Authority to Conduct Inventory-taking, different zones or areas and shall, upon
surveillance and to Prescribe Presumptive Gross consultation with competent appraisers both from
Sales and Receipts. - The Commissioner may, at the private and public sectors, determine the fair
any time during the taxable year, order inventory- market value of real properties located in each
taking of goods of any taxpayer as a basis for zone or area. For purposes of computing any
determining his internal revenue tax liabilities, or internal revenue tax, the value of the property shall
may place the business operations of any person, be, whichever is the higher of:
natural or juridical, under observation or
surveillance if there is reason to believe that such (1) the fair market value as determined
person is not declaring his correct income, sales by the Commissioner, or
or receipts for internal revenue tax purposes. The (2) the fair market value as shown in
findings may be used as the basis for assessing the schedule of values of the Provincial
the taxes for the other months or quarters of the and City Assessors.
same or different taxable years and such
assessment shall be deemed prima facie correct. (F) Authority of the Commissioner to inquire into
When it is found that a person has failed to issue Bank Deposit Accounts. - Notwithstanding any
receipts and invoices in violation of the contrary provision of Republic Act No. 1405 and
requirements of Sections 113 and 237 of this other general or special laws, the Commissioner
Code, or when there is reason to believe that the is hereby authorized to inquire into the bank
books of accounts or other records do not correctly deposits of:
reflect the declarations made or to be made in a
return required to be filed under the provisions of (1) a decedent to determine his gross
this Code, the Commissioner, after taking into estate; and
account the sales, receipts, income or other (2) any taxpayer who has filed an
taxable base of other persons engaged in similar application for compromise of his tax
businesses under similar situations or liability under Sec. 204 (A) (2) of this
circumstances or after considering other relevant Code by reason of financial incapacity
information may prescribe a minimum amount of to pay his tax liability.
such gross receipts, sales and taxable base, and In case a taxpayer files an application to compromise the payment of
such amount so prescribed shall be prima facie his tax liabilities on his claim that his financial position demonstrates
correct for purposes of determining the internal a clear inability to pay the tax assessed, his application shall not be
revenue tax liabilities of such person. considered unless and until he waives in writing his privilege under
Republic Act No. 1405 or under other general or special laws, and
(D) Authority to Terminate Taxable Period. - When such waiver shall constitute the authority of the Commissioner to
it shall come to the knowledge of the inquire into the bank deposits of the taxpayer.
Commissioner that a taxpayer is retiring from (G) Authority to Accredit and Register Tax
business subject to tax, or is intending to leave the Agents. - The Commissioner shall accredit and
Philippines or to remove his property therefrom or register, based on their professional competence,
to hide or conceal his property, or is performing integrity and moral fitness, individuals and
any act tending to obstruct the proceedings for the general professional partnerships and their
collection of the tax for the past or current quarter representatives who prepare and file tax returns,
or year or to render the same totally or partly statements, reports, protests, and other papers
ineffective unless such proceedings are begun with or who appear before, the Bureau for
immediately, the Commissioner shall declare the taxpayers. Within one hundred twenty (120) days
tax period of such taxpayer terminated at any time from January 1, 1998, the Commissioner shall
and shall send the taxpayer a notice of such create national and regional accreditation boards,
decision, together with a request for the immediate the members of which shall serve for three (3)
payment of the tax for the period so declared years, and shall designate from among the senior
terminated and the tax for the preceding year or officials of the Bureau, one (1) chairman and two
quarter, or such portion thereof as may be unpaid, (2) members for each board, subject to such
and said taxes shall be due and payable rules and regulations as the Secretary of Finance
immediately and shall be subject to all the
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shall promulgate upon the recommendation of taxes shall be assessed within three (3) years after the last day
the Commissioner. prescribed by law for the filing of the return, and no proceeding in
Individuals and general professional partnerships court without assessment for the collection of such taxes shall be
and their representatives who are denied begun after the expiration of such period: Provided, That in a case
accreditation by the Commissioner and/or the where a return is filed beyond the period prescribed by law, the three
national and regional accreditation boards may (3)-year period shall be counted from the day the return was filed.
appeal such denial to the Secretary of Finance, For purposes of this Section, a return filed before the last day
who shall rule on the appeal within sixty (60) days prescribed by law for the filing thereof shall be considered as filed on
from receipt of such appeal. Failure of the such last day.
Secretary of Finance to rule on the Appeal within
the prescribed period shall be deemed as approval SEC. 204. Authority of the Commissioner to Compromise,
of the application for accreditation of the appellant. Abate and Refund or Credit Taxes. - The Commissioner may -

(H) Authority of the Commissioner to Prescribe (A) Compromise the Payment of any Internal Revenue Tax,
Additional Procedural or Documentary when:
Requirements. - The Commissioner may prescribe
the manner of compliance with any documentary or (1) A reasonable doubt as to the validity of the claim
procedural requirement in connection with the against the taxpayer exists; or
submission or preparation of financial statements (2) The financial position of the taxpayer demonstrates a
accompanying the tax returns. clear inability to pay the assessed tax.
SEC. 7. Authority of the Commissioner to Delegate
Power. - The Commissioner may delegate the powers
vested in him under the pertinent provisions of this Code to The compromise settlement of any tax liability shall be
any or such subordinate officials with the rank equivalent to subject to the following minimum amounts:
a division chief or higher, subject to such limitations and
restrictions as may be imposed under rules and regulations For cases of financial incapacity, a minimum
to be promulgated by the Secretary of finance, upon compromise rate equivalent to ten percent (10%)
recommendation of the Commissioner: Provided, however, of the basic assessed tax; and
That the following powers of the Commissioner shall not be For other cases, a minimum compromise rate
delegated: equivalent to forty percent (40%) of the basic
(a) The power to recommend the promulgation of assessed tax.
rules and regulations by the Secretary of Where the basic tax involved exceeds One million pesos
Finance; (P1,000.000) or where the settlement offered is less than the
(b) The power to issue rulings of first impression prescribed minimum rates, the compromise shall be subject to the
or to reverse, revoke or modify any existing ruling approval of the Evaluation Board which shall be composed of the
of the Bureau; Commissioner and the four (4) Deputy Commissioners.
(c) The power to compromise or abate, under
Sec. 204 (A) and (B) of this Code, any tax (B) Abate or Cancel a Tax Liability, when:
liability: Provided, however, That assessments
issued by the regional offices involving basic (1) The tax or any portion thereof appears to be unjustly or
deficiency taxes of Five hundred thousand pesos excessively assessed; or
(P500,000) or less, and minor criminal violations, (2) The administration and collection costs involved do not
as may be determined by rules and regulations to justify the collection of the
be promulgated by the Secretary of finance, upon amount due.
recommendation of the Commissioner,
discovered by regional and district officials, may
All criminal violations may be compromised except: (a)
be compromised by a regional evaluation board
those already filed in court, or (b) those involving fraud.
which shall be composed of the Regional
Director as Chairman, the Assistant Regional
Director, the heads of the Legal, Assessment and (C) Credit or refund taxes erroneously or illegally received or
Collection Divisions and the Revenue District penalties imposed without authority, refund the value of internal
Officer having jurisdiction over the taxpayer, as revenue stamps when they are returned in good condition by the
members; and purchaser, and, in his discretion, redeem or change unused stamps
(d) The power to assign or reassign internal that have been rendered unfit for use and refund their value upon
revenue officers to establishments where articles proof of destruction. No credit or refund of taxes or penalties shall be
subject to excise tax are produced or kept. allowed unless the taxpayer files in writing with the Commissioner a
claim for credit or refund within two (2) years after the payment of the
tax or penalty: Provided, however, That a return filed showing an
SEC. 203. Period of Limitation Upon Assessment and
Collection. - Except as provided in Section 222, internal revenue
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overpayment shall be considered as a written claim for credit or transportation of personal property distrained and the
refund. advertisement and sale thereof, as well as of real property
and improvements thereon.
A Tax Credit Certificate validly issued under the provisions of this
Code may be applied against any internal revenue tax, excluding SEC. 206. Constructive Distraint of the Property of a
withholding taxes, for which the taxpayer is directly liable. Any Taxpayer. - To safeguard the interest of the Government, the
request for conversion into refund of unutilized tax credits may be Commissioner may place under constructive distraint the property of
allowed, subject to the provisions of Section 230 of this Code: a delinquent taxpayer or any taxpayer who, in his opinion, is retiring
Provided, That the original copy of the Tax Credit Certificate showing from any business subject to tax, or is intending to leave the
a creditable balance is surrendered to the appropriate revenue officer Philippines or to remove his property therefrom or to hide or conceal
for verification and cancellation: Provided, further, That in no case his property or to perform any act tending to obstruct the proceedings
shall a tax refund be given resulting from availment of incentives for collecting the tax due or which may be due from him.
granted pursuant to special laws for which no actual payment was
made. The constructive distraint of personal property shall be affected by
requiring the taxpayer or any person having possession or control of
The Commissioner shall submit to the Chairmen of the Committee on such property to sign a receipt covering the property distrained and
Ways and Means of both the Senate and House of Representatives, obligate himself to preserve the same intact and unaltered and not to
every six (6) months, a report on the exercise of his powers under dispose of the same ;in any manner whatever, without the express
this Section, stating therein the following facts and information, authority of the Commissioner.
among others: names and addresses of taxpayers whose cases
have been the subject of abatement or compromise; amount In case the taxpayer or the person having the possession and control
involved; amount compromised or abated; and reasons for the of the property sought to be placed under constructive distraint
exercise of power: Provided, That the said report shall be presented refuses or fails to sign the receipt herein referred to, the revenue
to the Oversight Committee in Congress that shall be constituted to officer effecting the constructive distraint shall proceed to prepare a
determine that said powers are reasonably exercised and that the list of such property and, in the presence of two (2) witnessed, leave
government is not unduly deprived of revenues. a copy thereof in the premises where the property distrained is
CHAPTER II located, after which the said property shall be deemed to have been
CIVIL REMEDIES FOR COLLECTION OF TAXES placed under constructive distraint.

SEC. 207. Summary Remedies. -

SEC. 205. Remedies for the Collection of Delinquent Taxes. -
The civil remedies for the collection of internal revenue taxes, fees or (A) Distraint of Personal Property. - Upon the failure of the
charges, and any increment thereto resulting from delinquency shall person owing any delinquent tax or delinquent revenue to pay the
be: same at the time required, the Commissioner or his duly authorized
representative, if the amount involved is in excess of One million
(a) By distraint of goods, chattels, or effects, and other pesos (P1,000,000), or the Revenue District Officer, if the amount
personal property of whatever character, including stocks involved is One million pesos (P1,000,000) or less, shall seize and
and other securities, debts, credits, bank accounts and distraint any goods, chattels or effects, and the personal property,
interest in and rights to personal property, and by levy upon including stocks and other securities, debts, credits, bank accounts,
real property and interest in rights to real property; and and interests in and rights to personal property of such persons ;in
sufficient quantity to satisfy the tax, or charge, together with any
(b) By civil or criminal action. increment thereto incident to delinquency, and the expenses of the
distraint and the cost of the subsequent sale.
Either of these remedies or both simultaneously may be
pursued in the discretion of the authorities charged with the A report on the distraint shall, within ten (10) days from receipt of the
collection of such taxes: Provided, however, That the warrant, be submitted by the distraining officer to the Revenue
remedies of distraint and levy shall not be availed of where District Officer, and to the Revenue Regional Director: Provided, That
the amount of tax involve is not more than One hundred the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative shall, subject
pesos (P100). to rules and regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Finance,
upon recommendation of the Commissioner, have the power to lift
such order of distraint: Provided, further, That a consolidated report
The judgment in the criminal case shall not only impose the
by the Revenue Regional Director may be required by the
penalty but shall also order payment of the taxes subject of
Commissioner as often as necessary.
the criminal case as finally decided by the Commissioner.

(B) Levy on Real Property. - After the expiration of the time

The Bureau of Internal Revenue shall advance the
required to pay the delinquent tax or delinquent revenue as
amounts needed to defray costs of collection by means of
prescribed in this Section, real property may be levied upon, before
civil or criminal action, including the preservation or
simultaneously or after the distraint of personal property belonging to
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the delinquent. To this end, any internal revenue officer designated treasurer or other responsible officer of the bank. Upon receipt of the
by the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative shall warrant of garnishment, the bank shall tun over to the Commissioner
prepare a duly authenticated certificate showing the name of the so much of the bank accounts as may be sufficient to satisfy the
taxpayer and the amounts of the tax and penalty due from him. Said claim of the Government.
certificate shall operate with the force of a legal execution throughout
the Philippines. SEC. 209. Sale of Property Distrained and Disposition of
Proceeds. - The Revenue District Officer or his duly authorized
Levy shall be affected by writing upon said certificate a description of representative, other than the officer referred to in Section 208 of this
the property upon which levy is made. At the same time, written Code shall, according to rules and regulations prescribed by the
notice of the levy shall be mailed to or served upon the Register of Secretary of Finance, upon recommendation of the Commissioner,
Deeds for the province or city where the property is located and upon forthwith cause a notification to be exhibited in not less than two (2)
the delinquent taxpayer, or if he be absent from the Philippines, to his public places in the municipality or city where the distraint is made,
agent or the manager of the business in respect to which the liability specifying; the time and place of sale and the articles distrained. The
arose, or if there be none, to the occupant of the property in question. time of sale shall not be less than twenty (20) days after notice. One
place for the posting of such notice shall be at the Office of the Mayor
of the city or municipality in which the property is distrained.
In case the warrant of levy on real property is not issued before or
simultaneously with the warrant of distraint on personal property, and
the personal property of the taxpayer is not sufficient to satisfy his tax At the time and place fixed in such notice, the said revenue officer
delinquency, the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative shall sell the goods, chattels, or effects, or other personal property,
shall, within thirty (30) days after execution of the distraint, proceed including stocks and other securities so distrained, at public auction,
with the levy on the taxpayer's real property. to the highest bidder for cash, or with the approval of the
Commissioner, through duly licensed commodity or stock exchanges.
Within ten (10) days after receipt of the warrant, a report on any levy
shall be submitted by the levying officer to the Commissioner or his In the case of Stocks and other securities, the officer making the sale
duly authorized representative: Provided, however, That a shall execute a bill of sale which he shall deliver to the buyer, and a
consolidated report by the Revenue Regional Director may be copy thereof furnished the corporation, company or association
required by the Commissioner as often as necessary: Provided, which issued the stocks or other securities. Upon receipt of the copy
further, That the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative, of the bill of sale, the corporation, company or association shall make
subject to rules and regulations promulgated by the Secretary of the corresponding entry in its books, transfer the stocks or other
Finance, upon recommendation of the Commissioner, shall have the securities sold in the name of the buyer, and issue, if required to do
authority to lift warrants of levy issued in accordance with the so, the corresponding certificates of stock or other securities.
provisions hereof.
Any residue over and above what is required to pay the entire claim,
SEC. 208. Procedure for Distraint and Garnishment. - The including expenses, shall be returned to the owner of the property
officer serving the warrant of distraint shall make or cause to be sold. The expenses chargeable upon each seizure and sale shall
made an account of the goods, chattels, effects or other personal embrace only the actual expenses of seizure and preservation of the
property distrained, a copy of which, signed by himself, shall be left property pending ;the sale, and no charge shall be imposed for the
either with the owner or person from whose possession such goods, services of the local internal revenue officer or his deputy.
chattels, or effects or other personal property were taken, or at the
dwelling or place of business of such person and with someone of SEC. 210. Release of Distrained Property Upon Payment
suitable age and discretion, to which list shall be added a statement Prior to Sale. - If at any time prior to the consummation of the sale
of the sum demanded and note of the time and place of sale. all proper charges are paid to the officer conducting the sale, the
goods or effects distrained shall be restored to the owner.
Stocks and other securities shall be distrained by serving a copy of
the warrant of distraint upon the taxpayer and upon the president, SEC. 211. Report of Sale to Bureau of Internal Revenue. -
manager, treasurer or other responsible officer of the corporation, Within two (2) days after the sale, the officer making the same shall
company or association, which issued the said stocks or securities. make a report of his proceedings in writing to the Commissioner and
shall himself preserve a copy of such report as an official record.
Debts and credits shall be distrained by leaving with the person
SEC. 212. Purchase by Government at Sale Upon Distraint. -
owing the debts or having in his possession or under his control such
When the amount bid for the property under distraint is not equal to
credits, or with his agent, a copy of the warrant of distraint. The
the amount of the tax or is very much less than the actual market
warrant of distraint shall be sufficient authority to the person owning
value of the articles offered for sale, the Commissioner or his deputy
the debts or having in his possession or under his control any credits
may purchase the same in behalf of the national Government for the
belonging to the taxpayer to pay to the Commissioner the amount of
amount of taxes, penalties and costs due thereon.
such debts or credits.

Property so purchased may be resold by the Commissioner or his

Bank accounts shall be garnished by serving a warrant of
deputy, subject to the rules and regulations prescribed by the
garnishment upon the taxpayer and upon the president, manager,
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Secretary of Finance, the net proceeds therefrom shall be remitted to The owner shall not, however, be deprived of the possession of the
the National Treasury and accounted for as internal revenue. said property and shall be entitled to the rents and other income
thereof until the expiration of the time allowed for its redemption.
SEC. 213. Advertisement and Sale. - Within twenty (20) days
after levy, the officer conducting the proceedings shall proceed to SEC. 215. Forfeiture to Government for Want of Bidder. - In
advertise the property or a usable portion thereof as may be case there is no bidder for real property exposed for sale as herein
necessary to satisfy the claim and cost of sale; and such above provided or if the highest bid is for an amount insufficient to
advertisement shall cover a period of a least thirty (30) days. It shall pay the taxes, penalties and costs, the Internal Revenue Officer
be effectuated by posting a notice at the main entrance of the conducting the sale shall declare the property forfeited to the
municipal building or city hall and in public and conspicuous place in Government in satisfaction of the claim in question and within two (2)
the barrio or district in which the real estate lies and ;by publication days thereafter, shall make a return of his proceedings and the
once a week for three (3) weeks in a newspaper of general forfeiture which shall be spread upon the records of his office. It shall
circulation in the municipality or city where the property is located. be the duty of the Register of Deeds concerned, upon registration
The advertisement shall contain a statement of the amount of taxes with his office of any such declaration of forfeiture, to transfer the title
and penalties so due and the time and place of sale, the name of the of the property forfeited to the Government without the necessity of
taxpayer against whom taxes are levied, and a short description of an order from a competent court.
the property to be sold. At any time before the day fixed for the sale,
the taxpayer may discontinue all proceedings by paying the taxes, Within one (1) year from the date of such forfeiture, the taxpayer, or
penalties and interest. If he does not do so, the sale shall proceed any one for him may redeem said property by paying to the
and shall be held either at the main entrance of the municipal Commissioner or the latter's Revenue Collection Officer the full
building or city hall, or on the premises to be sold, as the officer amount of the taxes and penalties, together with interest thereon and
conducting the proceedings shall determine and as the notice of sale the costs of sale, but if the property be not thus redeemed, the
shall specify. forfeiture shall become absolute.

Within five (5) days after the sale, a return by the distraining or SEC. 216. Resale of Real Estate Taken for Taxes. - The
levying officer of the proceedings shall be entered upon the records Commissioner shall have charge of any real estate obtained by the
of the Revenue Collection Officer, the Revenue District officer and Government of the Philippines in payment or satisfaction of taxes,
the Revenue Regional Director. The Revenue Collection Officer, in penalties or costs arising under this Code or in compromise or
consultation with the Revenue district Officer, shall then make out adjustment of any claim therefore, and said Commissioner may, upon
and deliver to the purchaser a certificate from his records, showing the giving of not less than twenty (20) days notice, sell and dispose
the proceedings of the sale, describing the property sold stating the of the same of public auction or with prior approval of the Secretary
name of the purchaser and setting out the exact amount of all taxes, of Finance, dispose of the same at private sale. In either case, the
penalties and interest: Provided, however, That in case the proceeds proceeds of the sale shall be deposited with the National Treasury,
of the sale exceeds the claim and cost of sale, the excess shall be and an accounting of the same shall rendered to the Chairman of the
turned over to the owner of the property. Commission on Audit.

The Revenue Collection Officer, upon approval by the Revenue SEC. 217. Further Distraint or Levy. - The remedy by distraint of
District Officer may, out of his collection, advance an amount personal property and levy on realty may be repeated if necessary
sufficient to defray the costs of collection by means of the summary until the full amount due, including all expenses, is collected.
remedies provided for in this Code, including ;the preservation or
transportation in case of personal property, and the advertisement SEC. 218. Injunction not Available to Restrain Collection of
and subsequent sale, both in cases of personal and real property Tax. - No court shall have the authority to grant an injunction to
including improvements found on the latter. In his monthly collection restrain the collection of any national internal revenue tax, fee or
reports, such advances shall be reflected and supported by receipts. charge imposed by this Code.

SEC. 214. Redemption of Property Sold. - Within one (1) year SEC. 219. Nature and Extent of Tax Lien. - If any person,
from the date of sale, the delinquent taxpayer, or any one for him, corporation, partnership, joint-account ( cuentas en participacion),
shall have the right of paying to the Revenue District Officer the association or insurance company liable to pay an internal revenue
amount of the public taxes, penalties, and interest thereon from the tax, neglects or refuses to pay the same after demand, the amount
date of delinquency to the date of sale, together with interest on said shall be a lien in favor of the Government of the Philippines from the
purchase price at the rate of fifteen percent (15%) per annum from time when the assessment was made by the Commissioner until
the date of purchase to the date of redemption, and such payment paid, with interests, penalties, and costs that may accrue in addition
shall entitle the person paying to the delivery of the certificate issued thereto upon all property and rights to property belonging to the
to the purchaser and a certificate from the said Revenue District taxpayer: Provided, That this lien shall not be valid against any
Officer that he has thus redeemed the property, and the Revenue mortgagee purchaser or judgment creditor until notice of such lien
District Officer shall forthwith pay over to the purchaser the amount shall be filed by the Commissioner in the office of the Register of
by which such property has thus been redeemed, and said property Deeds of the province or city where the property of the taxpayer is
thereafter shall be free form the lien of such taxes and penalties. situated or located.
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SEC. 220. Form and Mode of Proceeding in Actions Arising days thereafter; when the taxpayer requests for a reinvestigation
under this Code. - Civil and criminal actions and proceedings which is granted by the Commissioner; when the taxpayer cannot be
instituted in behalf of the Government under the authority of this located in the address given by him in the return filed upon which a
Code or other law enforced by the Bureau of Internal Revenue shall tax is being assessed or collected: Provided, that, if the taxpayer
be brought in the name of the Government of the Philippines and informs the Commissioner of any change in address, the running of
shall be conducted by legal officers of the Bureau of Internal the Statute of Limitations will not be suspended; when the warrant of
Revenue but no civil or criminal action for the recovery of taxes or the distraint or levy is duly served upon the taxpayer, his authorized
enforcement of any fine, penalty or forfeiture under this Code shall be representative, or a member of his household with sufficient
filed in court without the approval of the Commissioner. discretion, and no property could be located; and when the taxpayer
is out of the Philippines.
SEC. 221. Remedy for Enforcement of Statutory Penal
Provisions. - The remedy for enforcement of statutory penalties of SEC. 224. Remedy for Enforcement of Forfeitures. - The
all sorts shall be by criminal or civil action, as the particular situation forfeiture of chattels and removable fixtures of any sort shall be
may require, subject to the approval of the Commissioner. enforced by the seizure and sale, or destruction, of the specific
forfeited property. The forfeiture of real property shall be enforced by
SEC. 222. Exceptions as to Period of Limitation of a judgment of condemnation and sale in a legal action or proceeding,
Assessment and Collection of Taxes. - civil or criminal, as the case may require.

(a) In the case of a false or fraudulent return with intent to SEC. 225. When Property to be Sold or Destroyed. - Sales of
evade tax or of failure to file a return, the tax may be forfeited chattels and removable fixtures shall be effected, so far as
assessed, or a proceeding in court for the collection of practicable, in the same manner and under the same conditions as
such tax may be filed without assessment, at any time the public notice and the time and manner of sale as are prescribed
within ten (10) years after the discovery of the falsity, fraud for sales of personal property distrained for the non-payment of
or omission: Provided, That in a fraud assessment which taxes.
has become final and executory, the fact of fraud shall be
judicially taken cognizance of in the civil or criminal action Distilled spirits, liquors, cigars, cigarettes, other manufactured
for the collection thereof. products of tobacco, and all apparatus used I or about the illicit
(b) If before the expiration of the time prescribed in Section production of such articles may, upon forfeiture, be destroyed by
203 for the assessment of the tax, both the Commissioner order of the Commissioner, when the sale of the same for
and the taxpayer have agreed in writing to its assessment consumption or use would be injurious to public health or prejudicial
after such time, the tax may be assessed within the period to the enforcement of the law.
agreed upon. The period so agreed upon may be extended
by subsequent written agreement made before the All other articles subject to excise tax, which have been
expiration of the period previously agreed upon. manufactured or removed in violation of this Code, as well as dies for
(c) Any internal revenue tax which has been assessed the printing or making of internal revenue stamps and labels which
within the period of limitation as prescribed in paragraph (a) are in imitation of or purport to be lawful stamps, or labels may, upon
hereof may be collected by distraint or levy or by a forfeiture, be sold or destroyed in the discretion of the Commissioner.
proceeding in court within five (5) years following the
assessment of the tax. Forfeited property shall not be destroyed until at least twenty (20)
(d) Any internal revenue tax, which has been assessed days after seizure.
within the period agreed upon as provided in paragraph (b)
hereinabove, may be collected by distraint or levy or by a SEC. 226. Disposition of funds Recovered in Legal
proceeding in court within the period agreed upon in writing Proceedings or Obtained from Forfeitures. - all judgments and
before the expiration of the five (5) -year period. The period monies recovered and received for taxes, costs, forfeitures, fines and
so agreed upon may be extended by subsequent written penalties shall be paid to the Commissioner or his authorized
agreements made before the expiration of the period deputies as the taxes themselves are required to be paid, and except
previously agreed upon. as specially provided, shall be accounted for and dealt with the same
(e) Provided, however, That nothing in the immediately way.
preceding and paragraph (a) hereof shall be construed to
authorize the examination and investigation or inquiry into SEC. 227. Satisfaction of Judgment Recovered Against any
any tax return filed in accordance with the provisions of any Internal Revenue Officer. - When an action is brought against any
tax amnesty law or decree. Internal Revenue officer to recover damages by reason of any act
SEC. 223. Suspension of Running of Statute of Limitations. - done in the performance of official duty, and the Commissioner is
The running of the Statute of Limitations provided in Sections 203 notified of such action in time to make defense against the same,
and 222 on the making of assessment and the beginning of distraint through the Solicitor General, any judgment, damages or costs
or levy a proceeding in court for collection, in respect of any recovered in such action shall be satisfied by the Commissioner,
deficiency, shall be suspended for the period during which the upon approval of the Secretary of Finance, or if the same be paid by
Commissioner is prohibited from making the assessment or the person used shall be repaid or reimbursed to him.
beginning distraint or levy or a proceeding in court and for sixty (60)
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No such judgment, damages, or costs shall be paid or reimbursed in the Commissioner pursuant to the rules and regulations to
behalf of a person who has acted negligently or in bad faith, or with be promulgated by the Secretary of Finance, shall
willful oppression. constitute prima facie evidence of a false or fraudulent
return: Provided, further, That failure to report sales,
receipts or income in an amount exceeding thirty percent
TITLE X (30%) of that declared per return, and a claim of
STATUTORY OFFENSES AND PENALTIES deductions in an amount exceeding (30%) of actual
deductions, shall render the taxpayer liable for substantial
CHAPTER I underdeclaration of sales, receipts or income or for
ADDITIONS TO TAX overstatement of deductions, as mentioned herein.
SEC. 249. Interest. -

SEC. 247. General Provisions. - (A) In General. - There shall be assessed and collected on any
unpaid amount of tax, interest at the rate of twenty percent (20%) per
(a) The additions to the tax or deficiency tax prescribed in annum, or such higher rate as may be prescribed by rules and
this Chapter shall apply to all taxes, fees and charges regulations, from the date prescribed for payment until the amount is
imposed in this Code. The Amount so added to the tax fully paid.
shall be collected at the same time, in the same manner
and as part of the tax. (B) Deficiency Interest. - Any deficiency in the tax due, as the term
(b) If the withholding agent is the Government or any of its is defined in this Code, shall be subject to the interest prescribed in
agencies, political subdivisions or instrumentalities, or a Subsection (A) hereof, which interest shall be assessed and
government-owned or controlled corporation, the employee collected from the date prescribed for its payment until the full
thereof responsible for the withholding and remittance of payment thereof.
the tax shall be personally liable for the additions to the tax
prescribed herein. (C) Delinquency Interest. - In case of failure to pay:
(c) the term "person", as used in this Chapter, includes an
officer or employee of a corporation who as such officer, (1) The amount of the tax due on any return to be filed, or
employee or member is under a duty to perform the act in (2) The amount of the tax due for which no return is
respect of which the violation occurs. required, or
SEC. 248. Civil Penalties. - (3) A deficiency tax, or any surcharge or interest thereon on
(A) There shall be imposed, in addition to the tax required the due date appearing in the notice and demand of the
to be paid, a penalty equivalent to twenty-five percent Commissioner, there shall be assessed and collected on
(25%) of the amount due, in the following cases: the unpaid amount, interest at the rate prescribed in
(1) Failure to file any return and pay the tax due Subsection (A) hereof until the amount is fully paid, which
thereon as required under the provisions of this interest shall form part of the tax.
Code or rules and regulations on the date (D) Interest on Extended Payment. - If any person required to
prescribed; or pay the tax is qualified and elects to pay the tax on installment under
(2) Unless otherwise authorized by the the provisions of this Code, but fails to pay the tax or any installment
Commissioner, filing a return with an internal hereof, or any part of such amount or installment on or before the
revenue officer other than those with whom the date prescribed for its payment, or where the Commissioner has
return is required to be filed; or authorized an extension of time within which to pay a tax or a
(3) Failure to pay the deficiency tax within the deficiency tax or any part thereof, there shall be assessed and
time prescribed for its payment in the notice of collected interest at the rate hereinabove prescribed on the tax or
assessment; or deficiency tax or any part thereof unpaid from the date of notice and
(4) Failure to pay the full or part of the amount of demand until it is paid.
tax shown on any return required to be filed
under the provisions of this Code or rules and SEC. 250. Failure to File Certain Information Returns. - In the
regulations, or the full amount of tax due for case of each failure to file an information return, statement or list, or
which no return is required to be filed, on or keep any record, or supply any information required by this Code or
before the date prescribed for its payment. by the Commissioner on the date prescribed therefor, unless it is
(B) In case of willful neglect to file the return within the shown that such failure is due to reasonable cause and not to willful
period prescribed by this Code or by rules and regulations, neglect, there shall, upon notice and demand by the Commissioner,
or in case a false or fraudulent return is willfully made, the be paid by the person failing to file, keep or supply the same, One
penalty to be imposed shall be fifty percent (50%) of the tax thousand pesos (1,000) for each failure: Provided, however, That the
or of the deficiency tax, in case, any payment has been aggregate amount to be imposed for all such failures during a
made on the basis of such return before the discovery of calendar year shall not exceed Twenty-five thousand pesos
the falsity or fraud: Provided, That a substantial (P25,000).
underdeclaration of taxable sales, receipts or income, or a
substantial overstatement of deductions, as determined by
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SEC. 251. Failure of a Withholding Agent to Collect and Remit

Tax. - Any person required to withhold, account for, and remit any The exemption under Sec. 22(3) Art. VI of the Constitution only
tax imposed by this Code or who willfully fails to withhold such tax, or covers taxes assessed on cemeteries, churches, and parsonages or
account for and remit such tax, or aids or abets in any manner to convents, appurtenant thereto and all lands, buildings and
evade any such tax or the payment thereof, shall, in addition to other improvements used exclusively for religious purposes. These taxes
penalties provided for under this Chapter, be liable upon conviction to are property taxes as contra-distinguished from excise taxes. In the
a penalty equal to the total amount of the tax not withheld, or not case at bar, whats being assessed was a donees gift tax not on the
accounted for and remitted. properties themselves. The gift tax was an excise tax upon the use
made of the properties, upon the exercise of the privilege of
SEC. 252. Failure of a Withholding Agent to refund Excess receiving the properties. This kind of tax is not within the exempting
Withholding Tax. - Any employer/withholding agent who fails or provision of the constitution. Therefore, the petitioner as substituted
refuses to refund excess withholding tax shall, in addition to the by the Head of the Diocese, is liable to pay the said gift tax.
penalties provided in this Title, be liable to a penalty to the total
amount of refunds which was not refunded to the employee resulting The exemption under Sec. 22(3) Art. VI of the Constitution only
from any excess of the amount withheld over the tax actually due on covers property taxes assessed on cemeteries, churches, and
their return parsonages or convents, appurtenant thereto and all lands,
buildings and improvements used exclusively for religious
CASES and DOCTRINES purposes.

(Lutz vs Araneta 98 Phil 148) (Abra Valley College vs. Aquino 162 SCRA 106)
If objective and methods are alike constitutionally valid, no reason is
seen why the state may not levy taxes to raise funds for their The phrase used exclusively for educational purposes is not limited
prosecution and attainment. Taxation may be made the implement of to property actually indispensable therefor but extends to
the state's police power. It is inherent in the power to tax that a State facilities, which are incidental to and reasonably necessary to
be free to select the subjects of taxation and it has been repeatedly the accomplishment of said purposes
held that irregularities which result from a singling out of one
particular class for taxation or exemption infringe no Constitutional
limitation. (Bishop of Nueva Segovia vs. Province of Ilocos Norte 51
PHIL 352
The sugar industrys promotion, protection and advancement
therefore redound greatly to the general welfare. Thus, the Exemption from payment of land tax, which refers to lots used as
contention of plaintiff that the Act was promulgated not for home of the priest who preside over the church must include
public purpose cannot be upheld. not only the lot actually occupied by the church but also the
adjacent ground destined to meet the ordinary incidental uses
(CIR vs Algue 158 SCRA 9) of man.

It is said that taxes are what we pay for civilized society. (San Miguel Brewery, Inc. vs. City of Cebu/Cebu Portland
Without taxes, the government would be paralyzed for lack of the Cement Co. vs. Naga, Cebu February 20, 1973)
motive power to activate and operate it . Hence, despite the natural This is because double taxation is not prohibited by the
reluctance to surrender part of one's hard earned income to the Constitution. Furthermore, there is double taxation only when the
taxing authorities, every person who is able to must contribute his same person is taxed by the same jurisdiction for the same purpose.
share in the running of the government. The government for its part, In the first case, the annual business tax is a license tax to engage in
is expected to respond in the form of tangible and intangible benefits the business of wholesale liquor in Cebu City. Such license tax
intended to improve the lives of the people and enhance their moral constitutes a regulatory measure in the exercise of police power,
and material values. This symbiotic relationship is the rationale of whereas that which is imposed by the ordinance is a typical tax or
taxation and should dispel the erroneous notion that it is an arbitrary revenue measure.
method of exaction by those in the seat of power .

(American Bible Society vs. City of Manila 101 PHIL 386)

Subject Matter: Criminal Action; Tax Assessment
It was contended that said ordinances imposing license fee on the
distribution and sale of bibles and other religious literature,
impair the free exercise of religion, specifically the right to CIR V PASCOR REALTY & DEVT CORP et. al.
disseminate religious information. As between taxation and (GR No. 128315, June 29, 1999)
religion, the latter prevails.
Facts:
(Lladoc vs. Commissioner of Internal Revenue 14 SCRA 292)
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The CIR authorized certain BIR officers to examine the CIR V CA

books of accounts and other accounting records of Pascor Realty G.R. No. 119322, June 4, 1996
and Development Corp. (PRDC) for 1986, 1987 and 1988. The
examination resulted in recommendation for the issuance of an Facts:
assessment of P7,498,434.65 and P3,015,236.35 for 1986 and 1987, A task force was created on June 1, 1993 to investigate tax
respectively. liabilities of manufacturers engaged in tax evasion schemes. On July
On March 1, 1995, Commissioner filed a criminal complaint 1, 1993, the CIR issued Rev. Memo Circ. No. 37-93 which
for tax evasion against PRDC, its president and treasurer before the reclassified certain cigarette brands manufactured by private
DOJ. Private respondents filed immediately an urgent request for respondent Fortune Tobacco Corp. (Fortune) as foreign brands
reconsideration on reinvestigation disputing the tax assessment and subject to a higher tax rate. On August 3, 1993, Fortune questioned
tax liability. the validity of said reclassification as being violative of the right to
On March 23, 1995, private respondents received a due process and equal protection of laws. The CTA, on September 8,
subpoena from the DOJ in connection with the criminal complaint. In 1993 resolved that said reclassification was of doubtful legality and
a letter dated, May 17, 1995, the Commissioner denied private enjoined its enforcement.
respondents request for reconsideration (reinvestigation on the In the meantime, on August 3, 1993, Fortune was
ground that no formal assessment has been issued which the latter assessed deficiency income, ad valorem and VAT for 1992 with
elevated to the CTA on a petition for review. The Commissioners payment due within 30 days from receipt. On September 12, 1993,
motion to dismiss on the ground of the CTAs lack of jurisdiction private respondent moved for reconsideration of said assessment.
inasmuch as no formal assessment was issued against private Meanwhile on September 7, 1993, the Commissioner filed a
respondent was denied by CTA and ordered the Commissioner to file complaint with the DOJ against private respondent Fortune, its
an answer but did not instead filed a petition with the CA alleging corporate officers and 9 other corporations and their respective
grave abuse of discretion and lack of jurisdiction on the part of CTA corporate officers for alleged fraudulent tax evasion for non-payment
for considering the affidavit/report of the revenue officers and the of the correct income, ad valorem and VAT for 1992. The complaint
endorsement of said report as assessment which may be appealed was referred to the DOJ Task Force on revenue cases which found
to he CTA. The CA sustained the CTA decision and dismissed the sufficient basis to further investigate the charges against Fortune.
petition. A subpoena was issued on September 8, 1993 directing
private respondent to submit their counter-affidavits. But it filed a
Issues: verified motion to dismiss or alternatively, a motion to suspend but
was denied and thus treated as their counter-affidavit. All motions
1. Whether or not the criminal complaint for tax evasion can filed thereafter were denied.
be construed as an assessment. January 4, 1994, private respondents filed a petition for
2. Whether or not an assessment is necessary before criminal certiorari and prohibition with prayer for preliminary injunction praying
charges for tax evasion may be instituted. the CIRs complaint and prosecutors orders be dismissed/set aside
or alternatively, that the preliminary investigation be suspended
Held: pending determination by CIR of Fortunes motion for
The filing of the criminal complaint with the DOJ cannot be reconsideration/reinvestigation of the August 13, 1993 assessment of
construed as a formal assessment. Neither the Tax Code nor the taxes due.
revenue regulations governing the protest assessments provide a The trial court granted the petition for a writ of preliminary
specific definition or form of an assessment. injunction to enjoin the preliminary investigation on the complaint for
An assessment must be sent to and received by the tax evasion pending before the DOJ, ruling that the tax liability of
taxpayer, and must demand payment of the taxes described therein private respondents first be settled before any complaint for
within a specific period. The revenue officers affidavit merely fraudulent tax evasion can be initiated.
contained a computation of respondents tax liability. It did not state a
demand or period for payment. It was addressed to the Secretary of Issue:
Justice not to the taxpayer. They joint affidavit was meant to support Whether the basis of private respondents tax liability first
the criminal complaint for tax evasion; it was not meant to be a notice be settled before any complaint for fraudulent tax evasion can be
of tax due and a demand to private respondents for the payment initiated.
thereof. The fact that the complaint was sent to the DOJ, and not to
private respondent, shows that commissioner intended to file a Held:
criminal complaint for tax evasion, not to issue an assessment. Fraud cannot be presumed. If there was fraud on willful
An assessment is not necessary before criminal charges attempt to evade payment of ad valorem taxes by private respondent
can be filed. A criminal charge need not only be supported by a prima through the manipulation of the registered wholesale price of the
facie showing of failure to file a required return. The CIR had, in such cigarettes, it must have been with the connivance of cooperation of
tax evasion cases, discretion on whether to issue an assessment, or certain BIR officials and employees who supervised and monitored
to file a criminal case against the taxpayer, or to do both. Fortunes production activities to see to it that the correct taxes were
paid. But there is no allegation, much less evidence, of BIR
Subject Matter: Criminal Action personnels malfeasance at the very least, there is the presumption
that BIR personnel performed their duties in the regular course in
ensuring that the correct taxes were paid by Fortune.
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Before the tax liabilities of Fortune are finally determined, it

cannot be correctly asserted that private respondents have willfully
attempted to evade or defeat any tax under Secs. 254 and 256, 1997
NIRC, the fact that a tax is due must first be proved.

AZNAR CASE (August 23, 1974)

Facts:
Matias Aznar died on May 15, 1958. His income tax returns
from 1945 to 1951 were examined by the BIR. Doubting the truth of
the income that he had reported, the Commissioner ordered the
investigation of the case on the basis of the net worth method.
Substantial under-declarations of income were discovered. On
November 28, 1952, the BIR notified AZNAR of a tax delinquency of
P723,032.66 which was later reduced to P381,096.07 upon
reinvestigation.
On February 20, 1953, AZNARs properties were placed
under distraint and levy. On April 1, 1955, AZNAR appealed to the
CTA. The CTA found that AZNAR made substantial under-
declarations of his income as follows: he under-declared his income
for 1946 by 227%; 564% for 1947; 95% for 1948; 486% for 1949;
946% 1950; 490% 1951.

Issues:
Whether or not the right of the Commissioner to assess
AZNARs deficiency income taxes for 1946, 1947 and 1948 had
prescribed at the time the assessment was made.

Held:
On the issue of prescription the count applied the 10-year
prescriptive period and ruled that prescription had not set in. the
court opined that AZNARs returns were false because the under-
declaration of income constituted a deviation from the truth. The court
stated that the ordinary prescriptive period of 5 years (now 3 years)
would apply under normal circumstances but whenever the
government is placed at a disadvantage as to prevent its lawful
agent from making a proper assessment of tax liabilities due to false
or fraudulent returns intended to evade payment of taxes or failure to
the returns, the period of 10 years provided for in the law from the
discovery of the falsity, fraud or omission even seems to be
inadequate and should be the one enforced.