BIR Holds Firm on ₱3.23-Trillion Tax Collection Goal Despite Global Headwinds

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is staying on course to meet its ambitious ₱3.23 trillion collection target for 2025, even amid mounting global economic uncertainty sparked by US President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariff policy.

This year’s target marks a significant increase from the ₱2.848 trillion collected in 2024, and BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said no revisions are planned despite the potential drag on exports due to new US tariffs on Philippine goods.

“We’re still focused on hitting that ₱3.23 trillion. That remains our goal,” Lumagui stated, speaking to reporters during the annual tax filing deadline on April 15.

Crackdown on Tax Fraud and Illicit Trade

The BIR is banking on aggressive enforcement to drive revenue growth. Key focus areas include:

• Fake receipts crackdown, which Lumagui said has already boosted VAT collections.

• Illicit trade surveillance, especially for cigarettes and vape products sold both online and in physical stores.

• Tighter monitoring of online transactions, as e-commerce activity grows.

“We believe the combination of strong enforcement and taxpayer cooperation will help us meet our collection goal,” Lumagui added.

The Philippine government remains wary of global impacts stemming from the escalating trade war, especially its potential to slow demand for local exports.