Palace defends, pushes ‘persuasive’ tax drive

MALACAÑANG on Tuesday said the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will continue to “persuade” professionals and leaders of the industry sector to avoid “punitive” government action by paying their tax dues correctly and on time.

“We do not intend to malign or humiliate any particular group. Our call is for them to do their share in economic development. This is a persuasive and not a punitive effort,” said Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. who defended the BIR from criticisms over a controversial advertisement that depicted doctors as tax cheats.