Senator Gatchalian calls for simplified tax filing process as April 15 deadline nears

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is calling on the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to fully enforce the Ease of Paying Taxes (EOPT) Act as the April 15 deadline for filing annual income tax returns (ITRs) approaches.

As the principal author of the measure and chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Gatchalian emphasized that simplifying tax compliance is essential for strengthening government revenue collection.

He stressed the importance of ensuring that the law’s provisions—particularly those benefiting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—are effectively implemented.

“Isinulong natin ang EOPT dahil ang pagpapasimple ng proseso ng pagbabayad ng buwis ay susi sa pagpapalakas ng koleksyon ng kita ng pamahalaan,” said Gatchalian, principal author of the measure and chair of the Senate Committee on Finance.

Enacted in January 2024, the EOPT Act aims to streamline the filing process through a "file-and-pay-anywhere" system and expanded online services.

The law also categorizes taxpayers based on gross sales for more tailored administration and introduces an invoice-based system to expedite business registration and value-added tax (VAT) refunds.

Gatchalian underscored that proper execution of these reforms is vital for taxpayers to fully experience the intended benefits of the law.

-Paraluman News