Tax 1 Primer

CHAPTER 1: TAXATION IN GENERAL
TAXES: enforced proportional contributions from persons and property, levied by the State
by virtue of its sovereignty, for the support of the government and for all public needs.
Marginal tax rate

Percent levied on each
additional peso of taxable
income.
TO TAX: to impose a financial charge or other levy upon a tax payer by a state or the
functional equivalent of a state.
Marginal tax rate rises as

income increases.
Amount of tax collected by the taxing authority from the public is always greater than the
amount to be expended for public purpose.
COMPLIANCE COST: resulting difference; which includes labor cost and other expenses
incurred in complying with tax laws and rules.
HYPOTHECATION: levy of a tax for a specified end (e.g. imposing a tax on vehicles to be
used on road construction rehabilitation and maintenance)
TAXATION DEFINED
Governments perspective
Power by which the sovereign, through its
law-making body, raises revenue to defray
the
necessary
expenses
of
the
government.
A way of apportioning the costs of
government among those who in some
measure are privileged to enjoy its benefits
and must bear its burdens.
Taxpayers perspective
Compulsory transfer of money (or goods)
from private individuals, institutions or
groups to the government. It may be
levied upon wealth or income, or in the
form of a surcharge on prices.
Destructive power which interferes with
the personal and property rights of the
people and takes from them a portion of
their property for the support of the
government.
Some Taxation related terms

Tax base
Assessment or determination of tax liability is based or the
wealth within a jurisdiction that is liable to taxation.
Ex. Taxable income is the tax base for income tax and
assessed value is the tax base for property taxes.
Impact of tax
Person from whom government collects money in first instance.
Refers to liability for the tax.
Avera
Rate
taxed
a co
progr
Incidence of tax
Person who finally bears the bur
Ex. Amount of sales tax paid may be shifted or passed on by the seller to the buyer. What is
transferred is not the liability for the tax, but the tax burden. A seller who is directly and
legally liable for payment of an indirect tax, such as the VAT on goods or services is not
necessarily the person who ultimately bears the burden of the same tax. It is the final
purchaser or consumer of such goods or services who, although not directly and legally
liable for the payment, ultimately bears the burden of the tax.
Economists perspective
Non-penal, yet compulsory transfer of
base
resources Tax
from
theerosion
private to the public
When
components of the tax based are no
sector levied
on traditional
a basis of taxable
predetermined
longer
representative
of specific
the economy at large, this results to
criteria and
without
reference to
demographic changes, relative changes in production, stagnation
benefit received.
or inflationary effects.
Tax pyramiding
When sales taxes are applied t
shifting the tax burden to the ulti
some or all stages of production
borne by the consumer at the po
May also result from use of aggressive tax strategies by

taxpayers (eg. Less than appropriate income is shown and more
than deduction is claimed).
Ex. When a product is taxed at

is imposed on successive pairs
only at the final sale of the produ
Tax rate
Neutralastax
Describes burden ration, usually expressed
a percentage, at which
Tax that
does not cause individuals or firms to shift their
a person, property, privileges or occupation
is taxed.
economic choices, such as to choose among different goods,
inputs,
Important distinction when considering
taxlocations
rates isetc.
to distinguish
between marginal rate and effective average rate.
Tax structure that does not change the incentives in the market.
Violates the uniformity and neutr
Revenue Neutral
Taxing procedure that allows the
same amount of money despite c
may lower taxes for one group a
revenue to remain unchanged.
EXCEPTION TO EXCEPTION: if grantee is a political subdivision or

instrumentality, rigid rule of construction does not apply because practical effect of
exemption is to reduce the amount of money that has to be handled by the
Statutory taxpayer
Extraterritorial taxation
Tax exporting
government in the course of its operation.
Person on whom the tax is imposed by Tax is imposed on property/subject outside Shifting of a tax burden to non-residents of a
law and who paid the same even if he the State.
given jurisdiction. Exporting can be achieved
shifts the burden to another.
indirectly by taxing
imports or through
2. Benefits-protection
theory/theory of reciprocity/symbiotic relationship
intergovernmental transfer
mechanisms.
citizen
pays from his property the portion demanded in order that he may be
secured in the enjoyment of the benefits of organized society. A person
cannot object to or resist the payment of taxes solely because no personal
RELEVANT THEORIES/BASES OF TAXATION (NL-BS-NS)
benefit to him can be pointed out arising from the tax.
1. Necessity theory and lifeblood doctrine: the existence of the government is a
necessity. It has the right to compel all citizens and property within its limits
Despite natural reluctance to surrender part of ones income to taxing authorities, every
to pay taxes. Taxes constitute the lifeblood of the nation and are greatly
person who is able must contribute his share in the burden of running the government.
needed to support the government and its widely expanding services to the
Government is expected to respond in the form of tangible and intangible benefits.
people.
BPI-FSB vs. CA
a. Should be collected without unnecessary hindrance.
b. Claims for refund or tax credit should be exercised within the time fixed by
HELD: If State expects its taxpayers to observe fairness and honesty in paying their taxes,
law because the functions of an administrative body enforced to collect
so must it apply the same standard against itself in refunding excess payments. When it is
taxes should not be unduly delayed or hampered by incidental matters.
undisputed that a taxpayer is entitled to a refund, the State should not invoke technicalities
c. Fraudulent means employed to evade payment of taxes should be
to keep money not belonging to it. No one, not even the State, should enrich oneself at the
stopped at the earliest stage.
expense of another.
d. Neglect or omission of government officials entrusted with the collection
of taxes should not be allowed to bring harm in the same manner as
It is a requirement that it be exercised in accordance of the prescribed procedure. If not, the
private persons may be made to suffer individually on account of his own
taxpayer has a right to complain.
negligence.
PRESUMPTION: Private persons take good care of their personal affairs.
EXCEPTION: government officials with respect to matters of public concern;
3. Taxation as government violation of the non-aggression principle and the
exception to the principle of estoppel.
social contract theory.
Ex. Poll tax (e.g. Community Tax Certificate).
e.
Primary purpose for legislature in adopting measures is to generate funds

for the State to finance the needs of citizenry and to advance common
weal.
f. Granting exemptions are construed as strictissimi juris 1 against the
taxpayer and liberally in favor of taxing authority.
GR: Taxation
EXCEPTION: exemption from tax
Government violation of non-aggression principletaxation wrongfully presumes that

government has a higher claim on property than the owner. Taxation is theft and tax
resistance is therefore legitimate.
Social contract theoryin an organized society, members agree to define and limit the
rights and duties of each. Principal attribute of sovereignty is the exercise of taxing power
1 The most strict right or law.

2
which derives its source from the existence of the state whose social contract with its
citizens obliges it to promote public interest and common good.
Purposes and effect of taxation(Six [6] Rs)

1. Raise revenues.
2. Regulatory purpose.
3. Redistribution of wealth/reduction of social inequality.
4. Repricing.
5. Resuscitate economy.
6. Representation.
RAISE REVENUESPrimary purpose is REVENUE: to generate funds or property for the
State to finance the needs of the citizens and to advance the common weal.
Taxation is no longer a measure merely to raise revenue; taxes may be levied with a
regulatory purpose as an exercise of police power of the State.
REGULATORY PURPOSE police power may sometimes use the taxing power as an
implement for the attainment of a legitimate police objective.
Powell vs. Pennsylvania
HELD: If massage parlors are found to be mere fronts for prostitution, they may be
subjected to such onerous taxes as to practically force them to stop operating.
PAL vs. Edu
HELD: Law requiring owners of vehicles to pay for their registration is to raise funds for
construction and maintenance of highways. Fees may be regarded as taxes even though
they also sere as an instrument of regulation. If the purpose is revenue, or if revenue is one
of the real and substantial purposes, exaction is called a TAX.
SUMPTUARY PURPOSE OF TAXATION: non-revenue or regulatory purpose of taxation.
REDISTRIBUTION OF WEALTH/REDUCITON OF SOCIAL INEQUALITYthere is an effort
to apportion the costs of government among the people which in a way thwarts the undue
concentration of wealth in the hands of a few individuals.
PROGESSIVITY: those who are able to pay more should shoulder the bigger portion of tax
burden.
Taxation is now being used as an implement for exercise of the power of eminent domain.
Full reimbursement (peso for peso basis) is not necessary when the State uses taxation as
an implement of eminent domain.
Ex. Tax deduction does not offer full reimbursement of the senior citizen discount because it
only shaves money off the taxable income resulting to a partial recovery unlike a tax credit
which reduces the tax to be paid by the amount of discount. As such, it does not meet the
definition of just compensation. However, amendment to the law granting senior citizen
discount providing for tax deduction instead credit is not unconstitutional since the State can
impose upon private establishments the burden of partly subsidizing a government program.
REPRICING taxes may be levied to address externalities.
EXTERNALITIES: cost or benefit that is not transmitted through prices and is incurred by a
party who was not involved as either a buyer or seller of the goods or services causing the
cost or benefit.
External cost
Negative externality/cost of an externality
External benefit
Positive/benefit of an externality
Ex: Imposition of Pigovian Tax

PIGOVIAN TAX: tax levied on a market activity to correct the market outcome, if there are
negative externalities associated with market activity.
If there are negative externalities, social cost is not covered by the private cost of the activity
which may lead to over-consumption of the product. To correct this, Pigouvian tax may be
imposed (effective means to reduce incidence of bad behavior is to tax it).
If there are positive externalities (public benefits from a market activity), those who receive
the benefit do not pay for it and the market may under-supply the product. To correct this,
Pigouvian subsidy may be given.
Illustration:
A tax may be imposed on cigarettesvs. negative externality of second-hand smoke.
Pollution taxfactories emitting smoke.
Taxes may be used to modify consumption or employment by making some classes of
transaction attractive or to protect local industries or consumers.
Ex: Levying of special duties on importation
1. Dumping duty;
2. Countervailing duty;
3. Marking duty; and
4.
Discriminatory or retaliatory duty.
RESUSCITATE ECONOMY tax may be imposed as a first aid measure to resuscitate an

economy in distress.
Ex: PD 1956: AD VALOREM TAX on manufactured oils and other fuel oilsfor the purpose
of minimizing frequent price changes by exchange rate adjustments and/or increase in
world market prices of crude oil and imported petroleum products.
Tax exemptions may be granted to entice investments. Reduced tax collection redounds by
enticing more business investments and employment opportunities.
FISCAL POLICY: taxes used to influence macroeconomic performance.
REPRESENTATIONno taxation without representation; no taxes should be imposed on

the people but with their consent, personally or by representatives.
CONSTI: all bills for raising revenue shall originate in House of Representative on theory
that they are more sensitive to local needs and problems.
Characteristics and requisites of taxes
Characteristics
1. An enforced contribution.
2. Exacted pursuant to legislative authority.
3. Contribution being in form of money.
4. Imposed, levied and collected for the purpose of raising revenue.
5. To be used for public or governmental purposes.
6. Levied by authority which has jurisdiction over the person, property, transaction,
rights and privileges.
Requisites (JAPUN)
1. Person or property taxed should be within jurisdiction of taxing authority.
2. Assessment and collection of certain kinds of taxes guarantee against injustice to
individuals, especially by providing notice and opportunity for hearing.
3. For public purpose.
4. Rule of taxation shall be uniform and equitable.
5. Tax must not impinge on the inherent and constitutional limitation on power of
taxation.
An enforced contributiondoes not depend on the will or acquiescence of the taxpayer.

Exacted pursuant to legislative authorityGR: power is exercised only by the legislative
department except in case of valid delegations of power or when there is constitutional
grant.
Contribution in the form of moneythere is no law prohibiting payment in some other form
of property.
However, State could determine in what manner taxes should be discharged.
1. Notes of legal tender do not apply to involuntary contributions exacted by a State
buy only to debts (obligations for payment of money founded on contracts, whether
express or implied).
2. Statute requiring payment to be collected in gold and silver coins was sustained on
2 grounds:
a. Right of each state to collect its taxes in such material as it might deem
expedient. Mode in which it should be exercised, were all equally within
the discretion of its legislature, except as restrained by its own
constitution; and
b. Legal tender act had no reference to taxes imposed by State authority,
but only to debts arising out of simple contracts or contracts of specialty,
which include judgments or recognizances.
Imposed, levied and collected for purpose of raising revenuetaxes may have regulatory or
economic purpose other than to generate funds.
To be used for public or governmental purposeit cannot be used for private purposes.
Levied by authority which has jurisdiction over the person, property, transaction, rights and
privilegesjurisdictional limitation has 2 questions:
1. Is there a sufficient relationship between the State exercising tax power and the
object of the exercise of that power?
2. Is the degree of contact sufficient to justify the states imposition of a particular
obligation?
Nature of taxing power
1. It is inherent and legislative.
Inherent
GR: power to tax is an incident of sovereignty and is unlimited
Legislative
Legislature lies the discretion to
in its range, acknowledging in its very nature no limits, so that

security against its abuse is to be found only in the
responsibility of this legislature which imposes the tax on the
constituency who are to pay it.
Rule of taxation shall be uniform and equitable and Congress
shall evolve a progressive system of taxation.
The following are manifestation of this inherent nature
1. It can be imposed even in the absence of a
constitutional grant
2. Injunction is not generally available to enjoin collection
of taxes
3. Taxes cannot be set-off or compensated
4. It is an unlimited or plenary power
5. It is inherent in the power to tax that State be free to
select the subjects of taxation
Taxing power of LGUs is not inherent because they are not
sovereign units. LGU is merely an agency of the State for
carrying out the objects of the government. Thus, constitutional
or legislative grant is necessary before it can exercise taxing
power.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
It is not aIt contract

thetoState and its citizensit operates in invitum, which means
extent, coverage and situs of taxation.
has thebetween
authority
that itrate
is infornoaway
dependpublic
on the will or contractual assent, expressed or implied, of the
prescribe a certain tax at a specific
particular
person taxed.
purpose.
Taxes are obligations arising from law and not from contracts because of lack of consent or
choice.
Scopes of legislative power:
1. Purposes provided they are lawful and public
2. Person, property, privileges
occupation
be taxed
It isornot
political intonature
3. Amount or rate
Co Kim Chan vs. Valdes Tan Keh
4. Kind of tax
HELD: Internal revenue laws were continued in force during the period of enemy occupation
5. Apportionment of tax (whether tax shall be of general
and in effect were enforced by the occupation government. As a matter of fact, income tax
application or limited to a particular locality, partly general
returns were filed during that period and income tax payment were effected and considered
and partly local)
valid and legal. Such tax laws are deemed to be the laws of occupied territory and not of the
6. Situs
occupying enemy.
7. Mode or method of collection
TaxCongress;
are personalliability
cannot
Power to tax is primarily vested in
however it may
be be shifted. Rights are transmissible but obligations are
not. pursuant to direct authority
exercised by local legislative bodies
Thus, heirs cannot be held liable beyond what they inherited for delinquent taxes of a
conferred by SEC 5, ART 10 CONSTI.
decedent.
Corporations
tax delinquency
TAX FARMING: principle of assigning
the responsibility
for taxcannot be enforced against its stockholders or related
entities.
A corporation
is used
vested
revenue collecting to private citizens
or grounds
was once
byby law with a separate and distinct personality. However,
stockholders may be held liable for the unpaid taxes of a dissolved corporation if it appears
other countries.
that corporate assets have been passed into their hands. Same is true if stockholders have
unpaid subscriptions pursuant of the trust fund doctrine.
Power is not granted in the Constitution.

It is not a contract between the State and its citizens.
It is not political in nature.
Taxes are personal.
It is unlimited in range.
It is imprescriptible.
Power is not granted in the Constitutionit merely constitutes limitations upon a power
which would be impractical without it
SEC 28(3), ART 6 CONSTI. Charitable institutions, churches and parsonages or convents
appurtenant thereto, mosques, nonprofit cemeteries and all lands, buildings and
improvements, actually, directly and exclusively used for religion, charitable or educational
purposes shall be exempt from taxation.
In case of indirect taxes, shifting of the burden to tax from the seller to the buyer is not
incompatible with the principle that taxes are personal liabilities. When seller passes on the
tax to his buyer, he is only shifting the tax burden, but not the liability, to the buyer as part of
the cost of the goods sold or services rendered.
It is unlimited in rangeit is not subject to any restrictions except in the discretion of the
authority which exercises it. Security against its abuse is to be founded only in the
responsibility of the legislature which imposes the tax on the constituency who pay it.
McCulloch vs. Maryland
HELD: Power to tax involves the power to destroy.
Panhandle vs. Mississippi
HELD: Debunked the ruling in McCullock vs. Maryland where it is held that "power to tax is
not the power to destroy while this court sits. The power to tax may include the power to
destroy if it is used as an implement of the police power in discouraging and in effect
ultimately prohibiting certain things or enterprises inimical to public welfare. But where the
power to tax is used solely for the purpose of raising revenues, modern view is that it cannot
be allowed to confiscate or destroy.
It is imprescriptiblewithout exception, taxes being the lifeblood of the government.
However, statutes may provide for prescriptive periods for the collection of particular kinds
of taxes when government has not by express statutory provision, provided a limitation upon
its right to assess unpaid taxes, such right is imprescriptible.
HELD: The government is not bound by any statute of limitations, unless Congress has
clearly manifested its intention that it should be so bound.
Aspects of taxation
1. Aspects (LAP)
a. Levy2
b. Assessment and Collection3
c. Payment and/or exercise of remedies4
2.
Grant of exemption is an exercise of power of taxationpower to tax includes

power to exempt
Sound Tax System (ECCEPSD)

1. Canons of taxation.
a. Equity.
b. Certainty.
c. Convenience.
d. Economy.
e. Productivity.
2 Determination of persons, property or exercises to be taxed, amount to be

raised, rate to be imposed and the manner of implementation; this is exercised
by the Legislature.
3 Manner of enforcing the obligation of taxes already levied upon the taxpayer;
act of administration and implementation by Executive Department.
4 Compliance and/or resistance by the taxpayer; through Executive or
Legislature (through suffrage or initiative/referendum) and ultimately through
Judiciary.
f.
g.
h.
Elasticity.
Simplicity.
Diversity.
Equityevery person should pay to the government depending upon his ability to pay.
Certaintymust not be arbitrary; taxpayer should know in advance how much tax he has to
pay, at what time and in what form.
Conveniencemode and timing must be convenient to tax payers.
Economycost of tax collection should be lower than amount of tax collected.
Productivitytax when levied should produce sufficient revenue to the government.
Elasticitytax system should be fairly elastic so that if at any time the government is in
need of more funds, it should increase its financial resources without incurring any
additional cost of collection.
Simplicitytax system should be fairly simple, plain, and intelligible to the taxpayer.
Diversitysystem should include a large number of taxes which are economical;
government should collect revenue by levying direct and indirect taxes.
2.
Basic principles of Sound Tax System(FAT).

a. Fiscal adequacy.
b. Administrative feasibility.
c. Theoretical justice.
Fiscal adequacysources of revenues must be adequate to meet government expenditures

and their variations; violation of this principle will make the law unsound but still valid and
not unconstitutional.
Administrative feasibility--- taxes should be capable of being effectively enforced; tax policy
that costs government and taxpayers more to collect that taxes generated is inherently
flawed. Violation of this principle will make the law unsound but still valid and not
unconstitutional.
Theoretical justicetaxed must be based on the taxpayers ability to pay and proportional to
the relative value of the property; it must be uniform and equitable and that State must
evolve a progressive system of taxation. It is progressive when its rate goes up depending
on the resources of peron affected. Violation of this principle will make the law unsound,
invalid and unconstitutional.
Taxes are not subject to compensationTaxes cannot be offset from government

obligations or liabilities due to the taxpayer
1. Taxes cannot be subject of compensation because government and taxpayer are
not mutual creditors and debtors of each other. A claim for taxes is not a debt,
demand, contract or judgment that is allowed to be set-off.
2. Tax and debt
EXCEPTION: Domingo vs. Garlitos
HELD: SC allowed legal compensation of tax and debt when the claim of the
estate against the Government has been recognized and amount has already been
appropriate for the purpose of a corresponding law. Both the claim of the
Government for inheritance taxes and the claim of the intestate for services
Tax
Debt
rendered have already become overdue and demandable as well as fully
Due to government in its sovereign capacity
Due to the government in its corporate capacity
liquidated. Compensation takes place by operation of law and both debts are
extinguished to the concurrent amount, this:
Imposts levied by the Government for its support or some special Sum of money due upon contract, express or implied or one
ART 1200. When all requisites mentioned in ART 12795 are present, compensation
purpose, which the government has recognized.
which is evidenced by judgment
takes effect by operation of law and extinguished both debts to the concurrent
amount, even though the creditors and debtors are not aware of the compensation.
However, tax in a broad sense may be a debt, so that interest on estate and inheritance
may be deducted as interest on indebtedness:
Compensation may be applied if these circumstances are present:
a. Tax and debt
1. Both the claim of the Government for inheritance tax and claim for estate for
Tax
Debt
services rendered have already become due, demandable and fully liquidated.
Does not proceed from contract
Generally the result of the contract
2. An amount for the claim of the estate had already been appropriated by the
Obligations created by law and governed by special laws and Obligation created by a contract
Government by virtue of law.
falsification and non-payment of such taxes impose criminal
liabilities
CIR vs. Esso Standard
May be off-set
May not be off-set
May arise out of acts
of private
individuals
Can only be imposed by public authority
HELD:
On the
ground of solution indebiti 6, SC allowed compensation. Obligation to
Can be assigned return money mistakenly paid arises from the moment that payment is made, and not
Cannot be assigned
fromproperty
the time or
theservice
payee admits the obligation to reimburse. Since the money belonging
May be paid in money,
Generally payable in money
Draw
interest
if
stipulated
or
there
is
default
Do not draw interest unless delinquent
b.
Rule on non-imprisonment for non-payment of debts is not applicable.

Except for community taxes/poll taxes (cedula), fraudulent non-payment
of other taxes (like real estate) would be subject to imprisonment.
Falsification of community tax is subject to criminal liability.
c.
There can be no off-setting; collection of tax cannot avail the results of a

lawsuit against the government.
d.
Compensation had been the practice in the past can set no valid
precedent. Such practice has no legal basis.
2.
3.
4.
5.
ART 1279. In order that compensation may be proper, it is

necessary:That each one of the obligors be bound principally, and that
he be at the same time a principal creditor of the other;
That both debts consist in a sum of money, or if the things due are
consumable, they be of the same kind, and also of the same quality if
the latter has been stated;
That the two debts be due;
That they be liquidated and demandable;
That over neither of them there be any retention or controversy,
commenced by third persons and communicated in due time to the
debtor.
6 Payment to one of what is not due to him.

7
to ESSO was already in the hands of the government, although the latter ha no right
whatever to the amount and indeed was bound to return it, it was neither legally nor
logically possible for ESSO to be considered a debtor of the Government; and whatever
other obligation ESSO might subsequently incur in favor of the Government should
have to be reduced in that sum, in respect of which no interest could be charged.
Republic vs. Ericta and Sampaguita Pictures
HELD: SC upheld the dismissal of complaint to pay the amount for alleged unpaid
taxes and counter claim representing the face value of negotiable certificates of
indebtedness.
DOCTRINE OF EQUITABLE RECOUPMENT: grants a right to a creditor to recover

debt; debt diminishes to the extent s/he holds the debtors property in violation of
the debtors legal rights. It is the legal principle that a creditor loses right to recover a
debt if the creditor illegally possess some of the debtors property. ( Doctrine does
not apply in the Philippines.)
Applied in taxation
1. It allows a taxpayer to set off previously overpaid taxes due, even though the
taxpayer is time-bared from claiming refund on previous taxes. It applies only if the
Statute of Limitation has created an inequitable result. It is a defensive remedy
against mitigation of damages.
2.
It is applicable in cases to a taxpayer who erroneously paid a tax and is later

properly assessed a tax arising from the same taxable event. It allows the taxpayer
to offset the tax properly assessed by the tax erroneously paid, even if the Statute
of Limitations would otherwise prevent the taxpayer from recovering the earlier
overpayment through a claim for refund.
3.
It can occur only when the untimely refund claim to be set off against the timely
assessment occurs within the same transaction or tax year. Doctrine can only be
used as a defense to an assessment made during the same transaction or tax
period.
1.
Personal, capitation
or poll
Taxes of a fixed
amount upon all
persons or upon all
persons of a certain
class,
resident
within a specified
territory,
without
regard
to
their
property
or
occupations
in
which they may be
engaged.
Taxes of a specified
amount upon each
person performing a
certain
act
or
engaging
in
a
certain business or
profession is not
poll tax.
Property
Excise or privilege
Taxes assessed on all

property or on all property
of a certain class located
within a certain territory
on a specified date in
proportion to its value, or
in accordance with some
other reasonable method
of
apportionment.
Obligation to pay is
absolute and involuntary.
Charge
imposed
upon performance
of
an
act,
enjoyment of a
privilege
or
engaging in an
occupation.
It is measured by amount
of property owned by the
taxpayer on a given day,
and not on the total
amount owned by him
during the way.
Customs
duties
Charged
upon
commodities
being
imported
or
exported.
However, these do
not
pertain
to
performance of an
activity, at least not
to
extent
of
equating
excise
with
business.taxes.
It is assessed at stated
period
determined
in
advance, collected at
appointed times, enforced
by sale of property and by
imprisonment of person
assessed.
It is a tax in rem and
judgments in proceedings
is one in rem.
2.
Classification of taxes
Subject matter
Purpose
General, fiscal or revenue

Designed to raise revenue for the general or ordinary purposes.
Special or regulatory
Achieve social or economic goals
is actually raised or not.
Implies that tax rate progresses as

affluence (income) increases.
Special tax is imposed for special public purpose. Money raised

shall be spent only for such purpose and if such purpose has
been fulfilled, remaining amount shall be placed in general funds
of the government to be spent for any general purpose.
3.
REGRESSIVE
the amount of
Direct
Imposed and absorbed by same person.
Direct tax
Both the incidence of or
liability for the payment of tax
as well as impact or burden of
tax falls on same person and
cannot be shifted.
Ex.
Franchise
tax:
a
percentage tax imposed on
franchise holders is a direct
liability of the franchise
grantee.
Those that are exacted from the very person ho, it is intended or
desired, should pay them; they are impositions for which a
taxpayer is directly liable on the transaction or business he is
engaged in.
Ex. Income taxtaxes an individuals ability to pay based on his
income or net wealth.
4.
PROGRESSI
whereby the r
Who bears the burden
Personal tax
Those of a fixed amount
upon all persons of a certain
class within jurisdiction of the
taxing power without regard
to the amount of their
property.
Rate or graduation
Proportional
Fixed rate regardless of tax base.
Implies that
increases.
Indirect
Tax paid by a person other than one whom it is imposed.
Taxes wherein liability for payment of tax falls on one person to
another.
PROPORTIO
portion of the
5. Taxing authority
Illustration
1. VAT is payable by anyNational
person, in the course of trade
Local/municipal
and business. It is applied
Imposed
to each
by Congress
stage of production.
imposed by local legislative bodies
Burden of paying the amount may be shifted on to the
6. ofScope
buyer, transferee or lessee
goods, properties or
services.
General
Specific
2. Contractors taxpayable
by contractor but it is the
Imposed
throughout
the state or civil division for raising revenue Levied for a special purpose for
owner of the building that
shoulders
the burden.
3. Excise taxliability forfor
payment
generalmay
purposes
fall from
on athe
person
ground of general public interests.
politic resting upon the suppositi
other than the one who actually bears the burden.
specially benefited in the increase
7. Basis of amount
Those that are demanded, from or are paid by, one person in the
expectation and intention thatSpecific
he can shift the burden to
Fixed amount by head or number or by some standard of weight or
someone else.
measurement.
Specific expenditures.
Ex. VATsubstantial portion of consumer
Imposes a specific sum by the
head or number or by some
standard
of
weight
or
measurement
and
which
Progressive or graduated
Regressive
requires
no are
assessment
Tax rate and tax base are directly Tax rate and
tax base
inversely
a
listing
and
proportional.
proportional. beyond
classification of the subject to
Excise
Privilege tax laid upon the
manufacture,
sale
or
consumption of commodities
within the country .
Ad valorem (value)
Fixed proportion of value
taxes are assessed an
assessors or appraisers
property.
and regulation)
EXCEPTION: w
be taxed.
8.
Others
Consumption
Imposed on consumable commodities and
services.
Sumptuary
Government levy on goods considered
socially undesirable, most commonly
alcohol and tobacco.
Most are flat rate taxes. Sales, excise and

VAT are different forms.
Other source of revenue/funds and impositions

1. License fees: paid for the right granted by some competent authority to do an act
which, without such authority, would be illegal. It implies an imposition on the right
to use or dispose of a property, purpose a business, occupation or calling or
exercise a privilege.
a. SEC 147, LGC: municipalities may impose and collect such reasonable
fees on business and occupation, and (except professional tax) on
practice of any profession or calling commensurate with cost of
regulation, inspection and licensing before any person may engage in
such business or occupation.
b. Amount of fee is considered in determining whether for revenue or as
regulation.
Exemption from tax does not carry exemption from license fee. However,
if license fee is substantially more than cost of regulation, it may be
considered as tax and therefore covered by exemption. Authority to exact
fee does not carry power to collect tax.
PURPOSE: generate revenue; regulation is incidental. It is not

tax even if revenue is incidentally generated.
Amount is not subject to limitations provided not oppressive.
Flat
Charged no matter how much value. It
Non-payment does not make business illegal. However, it may
does not change.
be ground for criminal prosecution, distraint and levy of
properties.
2.
SALES TAX: indirect consumption tax

applied at the retail level. These are
calculated by multiplying the retain price of
a good or service by the tax rate.
Tax
Emerges from power of taxation of State.
Normally paid when business on operation.

Tax cannot be bargained away except for lawful consideration.
Before commen
May be bargain
Non-payment of
Special assessmentexaction on property levied in accordance with

benefits conferred upon that property.
Taxes
Levied on land, persons, property, income, business etc.
Special assessments
Levied on land.
Personal liability of taxpayer.
Not and cannot be made a person
Based on necessity and partially on benefits derived.
Based solely on benefits derived.
Of general application.
Of special application only as to p
Ordinary tax
Provide the government with revenues needed for the financing
of state affairs.
Special assessment
Finance the improvement of part
the improvement accruing or inu
assessment.
Refusal of citizen to pay may not be sanctioned because it would

government functions.
Refusal to pay may hold sanction
3.
Finespaid in case of violation of law.
4.
Penaltypunitive sanction for compelling timely action.
License fee
Emerges from police
Tax power of State.
Enforced proportional contributes from persons and property.
PURPOSE: regulatory to promote public welfare.
Penalty
Punishment for violation of law
violation of tax may give rise to im
to raise revenue.
Amount limited Imposed
to regulationcost
of permit (issuance of license
Imposed to regulate and rectify a
10
protection).
Government and individuals may impose.
No special or direct benefit is received by
the taxpayer, merely general benefit of
5. Tollpayment or fee exacted by the authorities for some right or privilege
protection except in special instances.
(e.g. passage along a road or over a bridge).
Contracts may not be impaired unless the
Taxes
Toll
taxpayers gave no consideration or in case
Demand of sovereignty for purpose of raising public revenue.
Compensation for the use by one of
of aanothers
property.
government
franchise.
something good.
Amount is determined by State.
Amount based on cost of propertyMoney

or of improvement
being used.
is taken.
Imposed by State.
May be imposed by either government or a private individual or

entity.
Only government may impose.
6.
Tariff/customs dutyimpost upon goods transported from one political

jurisdiction to another.
7.
Subsidygrant of money in aid of a private enterprise deemed to promote

the public welfare.
8.
Compromise penaltyamount imposed in case of a compromise involving

violations of tax laws.
9.
Revenuemoney which comes to a person or entity from an source or

sources which includes money which comes to a government from taxes.
Interferes only with property rights

although violation of tax laws may result to
imprisonment.
Healthy economic standard of society is

attained.
Direct ben
compensa
Contracts may be impaired.
Contracts
Any property, including money, which is

the source, implements or proceeds of the
danger to health, safety or morals.
Property o
action.
Regulates both liberty and property.
Interferes
violation
imprisonm
2.
Taxation may be enhanced through the exercise of police power

Illustration. If under police power, local government can classify lands as
residential and commercial, then, since conversion of industrial land is usually
assessed on higher assessment level, tax collections are increased.
3.
Taxation may be used as an implement of the police power and eminent

domain
Power to destroy may be included if tax is used validly as an implement of police
power.
Taxation distinguished from police power and eminent domain

1.
Distinctions
Taxation
For revenue.
Police power
For promotion of general welfare.
Amount has no limit so long as it is not

confiscatory.
Should only cover the cost of regulation

(e.g. issuance of license or surveillance).
General benefit to all inhabitants (e.g.
Intangible altruistic feeling of having done
Judicial review
1. Courts cannot review the wisdom of or advisability or expediency of a tax
SC is only allowed to settle actual controversies involving rights which are legally
Eminent domain
demandable and enforceable and may not annul an act of the political departments
For public purpose.
simply because the Court feels it is unwise or impractical.
Amount depends on the value of property
needed.
2. Requirements of questioning constitutionality
a. There must be actual controversy falling for exercise of judicial review;
b. Question before Court must be ripe for adjudication;
There is just compensation.
11
c.
d.
e.
Locus standi7of a private citizen questioning the act;

Question of constitutionality must be raised at the earlier opportunity; and
Issue of constitutionality must be the lis mota of the case.
A private person is allowed to raise constitutional questions only if he can show that he has
personally suffered some actual or threatened injury as a result of the allegedly illegal
conduct of the government, injury is fairly traceable to the challenged action and injury is
likely to be redressed by a favorable action.
Party must show not only that law or act is invalid butalso that he has imminent danger of
sustaining some direct injury as a result of its enforcement and not merely that he suffers in
some indefinite way.
3.
Moot and academic case

GR: Courts decline jurisdiction on the ground of mootness
EXCEPTION: Not moot and academic if:
a. There is a grave violation of the Constitution;
b. Exceptional character of the situation and the paramount public interest is
involved;
c. When constitutional issue raised requires formulation of controlling
principles to guide the bench, the bar and the public; and
d. Case is capable of repetition yet evading review.
PREPONDERANCE OF EVIDENCE: weight, credit and value of the aggregate on

either side; testimony adduced by one side is more credible and conclusive than
that of the other.
6.
No estoppel against the government

Government is not estopped by mistakes or errors of its agents.
Erroneous application of the law by public officers do not bar the subsequent
correct application of statutes. Principle of Estoppel does not apply when State
acts to rectify mistakes, errors, irregularities or illegal acts of its officials and
agents. Rule holds true even if rectification prejudices parties who had meanwhile
received benefits. This is particularly true in collection of legitimate taxes due
where collection has to be made whether or not there is error, complicity or plain
neglect on part of collecting agents.
However, this rule may be relaxed in the interest of justice and fair play, as where
injustice will result to the taxpayer.
Taxpayers suit
Citizen and taxpayer suits
Plaintiff in a taxpayers suit
Plaintiff is affected by the expenditure of public funds.
Plaintiff in citizens suit

He is but the mere instrument of
4.
Judicial proceedings not required

Collection of taxes levied should be summary and interfered with as little as
possible. However, taxpayers and State are not prohibited from seeking remedies
from courts.
Right a citizen and a taxpayer to maintain an action in courts to

restrain the unlawful use of public funds to his injury cannot be
denied
5.
Quantum of evidence: preponderance of evidence
DIRECT INJURY TEST: for a private individual to invoke judicial power in determining the
validity of an executive or legislative action, he must have sustained direct injury and it is not
sufficient that he has general interest common to all members in public.
7 Partys personal and substantial interest in a case such that he has sustained
or will sustain direct injury as a result of the governmental act being challenged;
Right of appearance in a court of justice on a given question; in private suits,
standing is governed by real parties in interest (SEC 2, RULE 3);
REAL PARTY: party who stands to be benefited or injured by the judgment in the
suit or the party entitled to the avails of the suit.
INTEREST: material interest in an issue affected by the decree.
MERE INTEREST: mere interest in the question involved or mere incidental
interest.
In a matter of mere public right,

right, if not the duty, of every c
public offense be properly pursu
grievance be remedied
Brushing aside technicalities

Requirement of locus standi may be waived in the exercise of court discretion, where
transcendental importance prompted the Court to act liberally.
Requirements
1. Cases involve constitutional issues;
12
2.
3.
4.
5.
For taxpayers, there must be a claim of illegal disbursement of public funds or that
tax measure is unconstitutional;
For voters, there must be a showing of obvious interest in the validity of election
law in question;
For concerned citizens, there must be a showing that issues raised are for
transcendental importance which must be settled early; and
For legislators, there must be a claim that official action complained of infringes
upon their prerogatives as legislators.
Decision to entertain a taxpayers suit is discretionary upon court.
2.
3.
It is not proper to implead the President as respondent

GR: The President, during his actual incumbency, may not be sued in any civil or criminal
case.
EXCEPTION: He remains accountable to the people but he may be removed from office
only by impeachment.
Questioning the validity and constitutionality of statutes by a taxpayer

GR: Locus standi must be present
EXCEPTION: Misapplication of funds
GR: Not only persons individually affected, taxpayers must have sufficient interest in
preventing the illegal expenditure of moneys raised by taxation and they may, therefore,
question the constitutionality of statutes requiring expenditure of public moneys.
To justify the suit, it is necessary that public funds should be involved.
Requisites of taxpayers suit
1. Tax money is being extracted and spent in violation of specific Constitutional
protections against abuses of legislative power;
2. Public money is being deflected to any improper purpose; and
3. Petitioner seeks to restrain respondents from wasting public funds through
enforcement of an invalid or unconstitutional law.
Expenditure of public funds by an officer of the State for the purpose of executing an
unconstitutional act constitutes a misapplication of such funds.
Taxpayer need not be a party to the contract to challenge its validity. As long as taxes are
involved, people have the right to question contracts entered into by the government.
CHAPTER 2: INHERENT LIMITATIONS ON THE POWER OF TAXATION

A. THE POWER TO TAX HAS LIMITS
The power to tax is an inherent power but such power must still be exercised in
accordance with the inherent and constitutional limitations
If there exists conflicting interest between the taxing authorities and taxpayers, it
must be resolved in favor of the real purpose of taxation, which is, promotion of
common good.
2 Kinds of Limitations:
o Constitutional Limitation those provided for in the Constitution
o Inherent Limitations restrictions to the power to tax attached to its
nature
B. THE INHERENT LIMITATIONS (Le-N-T-Ex-Ice)

1. (Le) Levied for a public purpose
2. (N) Non-delegability of the taxing power
3. (T) Territoriality or situs of taxation
4. (Ex) Tax exemptions of the Government
5. (Ice) International Comity
Transcendental importance
Determinants
1. Character of funds or other assets involved in the case;
Presence of a clear case of disregard of a constitutional or statutory prohibition by

the public respondent agency or instrumentality of the government; and
Lack of any other party with a more direct and specific interest in raising the
questions being raised.
Violation of any or all of the above is

a. equal to taking without due process
b. infringement of the general principles of intl law which form part of the law
of the land
13
C. LEVIED FOR A PUBLIC PURPOSE
Amount raised must

o Inure to the benefit of the public
o Used for
Support of the state
Some recognized object of the Government
Public service
You cannot use public funds to promote an individuals interest, even if it may
incidentally result to the benefit of the public
Rationale: tax can be levied against one class of individuals in favor of another
class; you can ruin one class while favoring the other
If it is for a private purpose, it is robbery because government takes property of
another and then gives it in favor of another person.
public purpose includes indirect public advantage
o if an individual directly enjoys the tax, it is still valid as long as there is a
link to public purpose
Test to determine existence of Public Purpose
o Duty test if it is the duty of the government to provide such thing
o Promotion of General Welfare Test if proceeds will directly promote
the publics welfare
Purposes of levying tax:

o regulatory purpose
o raise government revenue
o support government existence
o rehabilitate/stablize a threatened industry, which is affected with public
interest
If purpose of the tax is not stated, it is presumed that it is created for a public
purpose
Examples (presumption of public purpose)
o Pensions of war veterans assurance that a persons patriotism will be
acknowledged and rewarded
o Unemployment relief
o Support for the handicapped
o Care for the aged
o Scholarships for poor but deserving citizens
o Tax on sugar
Oil Price Stabilization Fund oil industry is imbued with public interest,
and a dramatic increase in oil prices will result to economic crisis
The public purpose must exist at the time the law was enacted.
o Government may only use public funds for a public purpose
o The existence of public purpose determines its validity, not the incidental
benefit to the public
D. NON DELEGABILITY OF TAXING POWER
Source of Power People

Delegation Transferred from the people to Congress
Basis: delegata potestas non potest delegari.
Theories that justify the delegation:

o Power to fill up the details- subjects of less interest in which general
provision may be made, thus those who are to act under such general
provision, has the power to fill up the details.
o Power of Contingent Legislation- what is delegated is the task of
ascertaining the facts that bring its declared policy into operation.
Delegable Powers: (Ta-Em-Trea-LIA)

a. (Ta) Tariff Powers-reason for its delegation is necessity.
b. (Em) Emergency Power- President can exercise this power in times of war or
other national emergency, as authorized by Congress through law. (Sec23(2)
ArtVI, 1987 Constitution)
c. (Trea) Treaty and Executive Agreement Powers-Power of President to enter in
to executive agreements, and to ratify treaties. (Sec21, ArtVII, 1987
Constitution)
d. (L) Local taxing power- Theory of non-delegation of legislative power does not
apply in local units. Reason- LGU not sovereign entities.
e. (I) Initiative and Referendumo Initiative- power of the people to propose and enact legislation
without action by the legislature.
o Referendum- power of the people to approve or reject any act of the
legislature, and also to approve or reject legislation that the
legislature has referred to them.
f. (A) Administrative Matters:
o Valid as regards:
i.
Valuation of property pursuant to fixed rules
14
ii.
iii.
Equalization of assessments by a central body

Collection of taxes
Test to determine permissible delegation:

a. Completeness test- The law must be complete in itself, setting forth therein
the policy to be executed, carried out, or implemented by the delegate
b. Sufficiency standard test -The law must fix a standard. The limits of which are
sufficiently determinate and determinable to which the delegate must conform
in the performance of his functions.
Non-Delegable Powers:
a. Selection of property or transaction to be taxed
b. Determination of purposes
c. Rate of taxation
d. Rules of taxation
Prohibition on Executive Legislation and Judicial Legislation
o Based on separation of powers of state.
o Law-making power-legislative branch
o Law-executing power- executive branch
o Law-interpreting power- judicial branch
E. TERRITORIALITY OR SITUS OF TAXATION
General rule: A state may not tax property lying outside its borders or lay an excise
or privilege tax upon the exercise or enjoyment of a right or privilege derived from
the laws of another state and therein exercised or enjoyed.
Taxation is an act of sovereignty which could only be exercised within states
territorial boundaries.
Taxes are paid for the protection and services provided by the taxing authority
which could not be provided outside the territorial limits of the taxing power.
Situs of taxation: situs is latin term which means situation, location or place.
Determination of situs: (S-NCR-L)
o (S) Subject matter of the tax- Situs may depend on what is being taxed:
excise/privilege, business, occupation, person, act or activity.
o (N) Nature/kind/ classification of the tax- situs may depend on what tax is
being levied: income tax, import duty, sales tax or real property tax.
o (C) Citizenship of the tax payer- situs may depend on which state the taxpayer
is a citizen of, or probably an alien, dual citizen, stateless or refugee.
o
o
(R) Residenxe of the taxpayer- situs may depend on the residence of the
taxpayer: resident, non- resident.
(L) Location of the property- situs may depend on the palce the thing or
property is located: within the Philippines or outside the Philippines.
F. GOVERNMENT EXEMPTION
It is a matter of public policy.

o Property belonging to the State or any of its political division intended for
government use and purposes is generally exempt from taxation.
o express provision of law needed to satisfy the rule.
Always remember that Exemption is the rule and taxation is the exception.
Reasons for exemption (A-Nore-So-Re)

o (A) Avoid transferring money from one pocket to another.
o (Nore) No revenue.
o (So) So as not to unduly impede govt functions.
o (Re) Reduce amount of money to be handled.
Exception to the (General Rule) Exemption

o The rule on the exemption of government is not absolute.
o The government may tax itself. Clearly, exemption applies only to
government entities which immediately and directly exercise its
government powers.
o GOCCs, agencies, or instrumentalities are subject to taxation under
the NIRC and LGC. However, only income from proprietary activities
and not from essential governmental functions are taxable.
Definition of Terms
o RP (Republic of the Philippines) corporate government entity through
which the functions of government are exercised throughout the
Philippines.
o NG (National Government) entire machinery of the central government
as distinguished from different forms of local government
o GOCC (Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations) any
agency organized as a stock or non-stock corporation
15
GA (Government Agency) any of the various units of the government

including a department, bureau, office, instrumentality, or GOCC, or LGU
or a distinct unit therein.
G. INTERNATIONAL COMITY
DSE (Doctrine of Sovereign Equality)

o In par parem non habet imperium or as between equals there is no
sovereign
o Foreign sovereign does not subject itself to another.
DSI (Doctrine of Sovereign Immunity)

o The State cannot be sued without its consent.
o The State can do no wrong.
o Based on practicality because of the difficulty of enforcing tax laws.
IC (Incorporation Clause)
o The Philippines adopts the generally accepted principles on international
law as part of the law of the land.
o The Philippines adheres to the policy of peace, equality, justice, freedom,
cooperation, and amity with all nations.
CHAPTER III: CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS
The power to tax involves the power to destroy.8 These were the famous words penned by
the great Chief Justice Marshall in 1819. As discussed in the preceding chapters, the power
to tax is the strongest of all the inherent powers of the State. As being unlimited in its range,
the 1987 Constitution has vested this power to the people who pay it, through their
representatives, the Legislature.9 Though the taxing power is characterized as such an
awesome power, it is not unconfined.10
8 McCulloch v. Maryland, 17 U.S. 4 Wheat. 316 316 (1819).

9 MCIAA v. Marcos, 330 Phil. 392, 404 (1996).
In the previous chapter, we have already discussed that taxing power, although
plenary in nature, is still subject to certain limitations. Some of these limitations are not to be
found in any statute, thus the term inherent limitations. In this chapter, we are now to
discuss the second type of limitations of the taxing power of the State The Constitutional
Limitations on Taxation. The 1987 Philippine Constitution provides the following limitations:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Due process;
Equal protection;
Freedom of speech and of the press;
Non infringement of religious freedom and worship;
Non impairment of contracts;
Non imprisonment for dent or non payment of poll tax;
Appropriations, revenue, and tariff b ills shall originate exclusively originate
from the house of representatives;
Uniformity, equitability, and progressivity of taxation;
Power of Congress to delegate to the President the authority to fix tariff rates,
import and export quotas, etc.;
Veto power of the President;
Tax exemption of properties actually, directly, and exclusively used for
religious, charitable, and educational purposes;
Voting requirement in connection with the legislative grant of tax exemption
Non impairment of the jurisdiction of the Supreme court in tax cases;
Exemption from taxes of the revenues and assets of educational institutions,
including grants, endowments, donations and contributions
DUE PROCESS
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law ,
nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws. (Sec. 1, Art III,
1987 Phil. Constitution)
In order that a tax statute may be validly imposed on the people, it must be lawful. In other
words, a tax law passed by the Congress of the Philippines must first be constitutional.
10 Dizon, E. (2013). THE CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS OF TAXATION. In Taxation

Law Compendium (2013 ed., Vol. 1). Rex Book Store.
16
Under Section one (1) of the Bill of Rights (Art. III, 1987 Philippine Constitution), the tax law
must undergo due process for it amounts to an individuals property (though minimal) being
deprived from him. The due process clause is a constitutional safeguard of the people from
the government, which is the taxing authority. If so proved that the tax law is violative of this
constitutionally protected right, under the principle of ubi jus ibi remedium, it shall be struck
down. As in the words of Justice Bradley, In judging what is due process of law, respect
must be had to the cause and object of the taking, whether under the taxing power, the
power of eminent domain, or the power of the assessment fir local improvements, or some
of these; and, if found to be suitable or admissible in the special case, it will be adjudged to
be due process of law, but if found arbitrary, oppressive, and unjust, it may be declared to
be not due process of law. 11
ASPECTS OF DUE PROCESS

There are two aspects under the due process clause substantive and procedural.
Substantive Due Process is the aspect which prohibits the State from encroaching on the
fundamental liberties provided for by the constitution. Simply put, in order that a tax statute
be constitutional, it must be reasonable, fair and just, and not be harsh nor oppressive. In
the event that taxes collected, or to be collected, are confiscatory in nature, such obligation
enforced upon the tax payer is violative of the due process principle, and is therefore
unconstitutional.12
Procedural due process, on the other hand refers to the procedural limitations placed on the
manner in which a law is administered, applied or enforced. 13 It is but elementary in
democratic forms of government that laws, especially those which impose a tax obligation
on its citizenry, be exercised in accordance with the prescribed procedure. This is
mandatory. To do otherwise shall give rise to a right which the taxpayer may use to ask the
Courts its succor. The tax collector may be stopped if the taxpayer can demonstrate that the
law has not been observed.14 In a case decided by the Supreme Court, it held that due
process was not observed when the trial court classified certain properties of the Roman
11 Davidson v. New Orleans, 96 US 97 (1878).

12 Reyes, et al. v. Almanzor, et al., G.R. Nos. 49839 46, 26 APR 1991.
14 Commissioner of Internal Revenue v. Algue, Inc., G.R. No. L 28896, 17 FEB 1988.
Catholic Church were tax exempt under the 1973 constitution where no court hearing was
conducted thereon.15
RULES OF DUE PROCESS IN TAXATION

The exercise of the State of its inherent power to tax its constituency must conform to the
following rules:
a.)
b.)
c.)
d.)
It must be for a public purpose;

Operates uniformly to all who are under its purview;
Exercised only within the jurisdiction of the duly authorized taxing authority
In the assessment and collection of taxes, notice and hearing shall be
provided the taxpayer to guarantee against injustice
e.) Publication is not merely directory, but mandatory;
f.) There must be a right to appeal given to the taxpayer in cases where it is
proper, being a statutory, and not a natural right.16
It is good to take note, that although the taxpayer is granted the right to have due
notice and hearing, such is only guaranteed when the tax to be imposed shall substantially
affect him. In other words, when the tax to be imposed by the government is not one which
could be changed by hearing the taxpayer, its absence does not violate the constitutional
safeguard. A persons right to due process is therefore not invaded. However, if such tax
would be in the nature of an ad valorem tax which utilizes the use of assessors to ascertain
the proper value of a taxable item or property, such act is considered as judicial in nature.
Thus, due process is satisfied by giving the opportunity to the taxpayer to be heard
respecting such assessment.17
PROCEEDINGS IN TAX CASES

Due process in taxation does not mean nor require that a full blown judicial proceeding be
done. Generally, such cases are settled summarily and must be interfered with as little as
15 Province of Abra v. Hernando, etc., et al., G.R. No. L 49336, 31 AUG 1981.
16 Bello v. Francisco, 4 SCRA 134; Rodriguez v. Director of Prisons, 47 SCRA 153.
17
possible.18 As government projects are mainly fueled by the revenue generated by taxes
paid by individual taxpayers, the delay which is normally present in judicial proceedings are
not required in the enforcement of taxes and assessments and are frowned upon.19 No
government could exist if all litigants were permitted to delay the collection of its taxes.20
PRESUMPTION OF VALIDITY OF TAX LAWS; RETROACTIVITY

The courts of law will not declare a statute, passed in accordance with the manner set out
by the Constitution, unconstitutional for being in violation of the due process clause on mere
allegations by the taxpayer.21 Every statute passed by the Congress enjoys the presumption
of validity, including tax laws. The burden of proving that the law is unconstitutional shall be
borne by the taxpayer in accordance with our rules on evidence. Also, the mere fact that a
tax statute is expressed to be retroactive in its application is not proof in itself that the law is
unconstitutional.
not, however, require equal treatment of all persons, regardless of their situation. The
Constitutional safeguard merely requires that all persons who are within the ambit of the
statute shall be treated alike, under like circumstances and conditions, both with respect to
the privileges acquired and liabilities imposed.23
The power of the State to classify, in relation to taxation, property and persons to be taxed,
the rates of such taxes, as well as the methods of assessment, valuation, and collection is
unquestioned, but is not absolute.24 Such classification must be based upon real and
substantial differences between the persons, property or privileges, and those not taxed
must bear some reasonable relation to the object or purpose of legislation or to some
permissible governmental policy or legitimate end of governmental action.25Thus, the
equality of taxation rule is not violated if classifications or distinctions made are based on
substantial and reasonable differences.26
GOALS IN DISTRIBUTION
EQUAL PROTECTION
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law,
nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws. (Sec. 1, Art III,
1987 Phil. Constitution)
The second (2nd) constitutional limitation is found under the same provision of the 1987
Constitution as the due process clause. Aptly stated, not person shall be denied of the equal
protection of laws. The equal protection clause requires that persons similarly situated
should be treated alike, both as to rights conferred and responsibilities imposed. 22 It does
18 Churchill and Tait v. Rafferty, 32 Phil. 580, 585, 21 DEC 1915.

20 Lorenzo v. Posadas, 64 Phil. 353, 368 18 JUN 1937.

22 Ichong v. Hernandez, 101 Phil. 1155.
Two different goals in distribution arise when fairness or equality are looked at, vertical
and horizontal. The latter refers to the fair treatment of tax payers with the like ability to pay.
It prohibits the discrimination on the grounds such as race, gender, occupation, etc. 27 Stated
differently, those similarly situated shall be similarly taxed.28 Meanwhile, the former refers to
the relative tax burden of tax paying units with different abilities to pay. Vertical equity seeks
to tax in a proportional or progressive way.29
DIMENSIONS OF TAX EQUITY AND FAIRNESS
23 Sison, jr. v. Ancheta, G.R. No. 59431, 25 JUL 1984.

24 Aban, B. (1994). Law of Basic Taxation in the Philippines (2001 ed.). National Book
Store.
25 See Thomas P. Matic, Jr., Taxation in the Philippines (Vol. I, pp. 79 80).
26 Aban, B. (1994). Law of Basic Taxation in the Philippines (2001 ed.). National Book
Store.
28 See AICPA Guiding Principles for Tax Equity and Fairness (2007), p. 3.
29Dizon, E. (2013). THE CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS OF TAXATION. In Taxation

18
Aside from the aforementioned goals, it has been recommended that the following
dimensions be considered in determining tax equity and fairness
a.)
b.)
c.)
d.)
e.)
Exchange Equity and Fairness Taxpayers must, over the long run, receive
the appropriate value for the taxes they pay;
Process Equity and Fairness Taxpayers have a voice within the tax system,
are given due process and are treated with respect by the tax administrators;
Time Related Equity and Fairness Taxes are not unduly distorted when
income or wealth levels fluctuate over time;
Inter Group Equity and Fairness No group of taxpayers is favored to the
detriment of another without good cause; and,
Compliance Equity and Fairness All tax payers pay what they owe on a
timely basis.30
REQUIREMENTS OF VALID CLASSIFICATION OR DISTINCTION

As stated earlier, the State may validly classify or discriminate among its subjects so long as
such is based on a rational basis. The equal protection clause does not require the
universal application of the laws, that is, that it operates on all people without distinction.
Such an effect might in fact sometimes result in unequal protection. 31 Thus, in order that a
classification to be a valid one, it must conform to the following:
a.)
b.)
c.)
d.)
That it must be based on substantial distinctions;

It must be germane it the purpose of the law;
It must not be limited to the preexisting conditions; and,
It must apply equally to all members of the class.32
FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND OF THE PRESS
No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the

press,or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for
redress of grievances (Section 4, Article III, 1987 Constitution)
There are four (4) primary reasons why freedom of expression, which encompasses
speech, the press, assembly and petition, is essential to a free society. First, the self
expression of an individual enables him to realize his full potential as a human being.
Second, enlightened judgment is possible if one considers all the facts and ideas and tests
ones own against it. It is vital to the attainment and advancement of knowledge. Third, it is
necessary to our system of governance. Democratic Societies development and
advancement is largely dependent on how well informed its citizenry is for if it would be
otherwise, the result would be tyranny and oppression. Lastly, it serves as a safeguard
system of the public, developing a system of checks and balances against the possible
corrupt practices of the State.33
The provision of the constitution necessarily includes the liberty of the press which
is principally, although not exclusively, immunity from prior restraint and/or subsequent
censorship.34 To discuss further, it is not the censorship of the press per se which is the evil
sought to be prevented. It refers to any action of the government by means of which it might
prevent such free and general discussion of public matters as seems absolutely essential to
prepare the people for an intelligent exercise of their rights as citizens.35
CURTAILMENT OF FREEDOM
Briefly put, immunity is granted to the press so as to help promote and develop an informed
citizenry. They exist as a vital source of public information. It sheds more light on the public
and business affairs of the nation than any other instrumentality of publicity. Public opinion,
as the most potent of all restraints against the corrupt actions and practices of the
government, is afforded protection by nothing less than the constitution itself. A free press
stands as one of the great interpreters between the government and the people. To treat it
otherwise, as to subject it to taxes, would amount to suppression and abridgement of
publicity results to the curtailment of press freedom and freedom of speech and of
expression.36

30 Ibid.
31 Cruz, I. (2000). Constitutional law (2000 ed., p. 125). Quezon City, Metro Manila,
Philippines: Central Lawbook Pub.
32 Ormoc Sugar Co. Inc. v. Treasurer of Ormoc City, et al., L 23794, 17 FEB 1968.

34 Near v. Minnesota, 283 U.S. 697, 283 U.S. 707.
35 Cooleys Constitutional Limitations, 8th ed. P. 866

36 Ibid.
19
It has been held though that although granted immunity from certain taxes, they
can still be subject to general taxes. However, taxes that may still be validly imposed upon
them must be fair, reasonable, and just, and in accordance with the persons right to the
equal protection of laws. It must not be used as a tool to abridge the freedom of press under
the guise of valid tax, as when it is exercised by the state arbitrarily and capriciously,
singling out the press from other businesses or if such taxes are imposed only on a select
few press members. In such case, the Supreme Court has acknowledged the potential for
abuse is present in differential taxation of the press.37
The non establishment clause, in general, merely prohibits the State, or any of its
instrumentalities and political subdivisions, from setting up a church. Necessarily, it includes
prohibitions such as:
a.)
b.)
c.)
d.)
The State cannot pass a law which aid nor discriminate a religion;
It cannot force a person, nor influence him, to join, remain, or to leave a
church or religious sect;
It cannot, openly or secretively, participate in the affairs of any religion or
church; and,
No tax in any amount, large or small, can be levied to support any religious
activities or institutions, whatever they may be called, or whatever form they
may adopt to teach or practice religion.39
RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
REQUISITES FOR CONSTITUTIONALITY
No law shall be made respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free
exercise thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and
worship without discrimination or preference shall forever be allowed. No religious
test shall be required for the free exercise of civil or political rights (Sec 5, Art. III,
1987 Philippine Constitution)
In accordance with the above stated provision, our Constitution and laws provide an
exemption from taxation properties which are devoted exclusively for religious purposes.
This grant of immunity of the fundamental law of the land and other tax laws were made to
further realize the declared principle of the State which is The Separation of the Church and
the State.38
The wall of separation that must be maintained between church and state is a blurred,
distinct, and variable barrier depending upon the circumstances of a particular
relationship.40 The case of Lemon v. Kurtzman 41 enunciated in a three part test to assess
whether a law violates the Establishment clause:
1.)
2.)
3.)
Does the law have a secular purpose?

Is the Primary effect either to advance religion or to inhibit religion?
Does the law foster an excessive governmental entanglement with religion?
If any of these questions are answered in the negative, then the law becomes
unconstitutional as it violates the Establishment Clause
FREE EXERCISE CLAUSE

The Constitutional provision, like Sec. 1 of the Bill of Rights, can be further divided in to 2
clauses: (a) the Non Establishment clause; and (b) the Free Exercise clause.
NON ESTABLISHMENT CLAUSE
37 Robert M. Howie, Leathers v. Medlock: The Supreme Court Changes Course on Taxing
the Press, 49 Wash. & Lee L. Rev. 1053 (1992), citing Minneapolis Tribune Co. v. Minnesota
Commissioner of Revenue, 460 U.S. 575 (1983)
38 Sec. 6, Art II, 1987 Philippine Constitution
The Free Exercise clause, on the other hand, withdraws from the legislative power, state
and federal, the extortion of any restraint on the free exercise of religion. It bars
governmental regulation of religious beliefs as such, prohibiting the misuse of secular
governmental programs to impede the observance of one or all religions even though the
burden may be characterized as being only indirect.42
39 see Everson v. Board of Education

41 403 U.S. 602 (1970)
20

RELIGIOUS GROUPS ARE EXEMPT TO PAY TAXES
Generally, religious groups, sects, and like organizations are exempt from paying taxes like
Income tax, license fees, and similar taxes as it imposes a burden on the free exercise of
religion. Albeit, like the press, religious groups may still be subject to general taxes
depending upon the circumstances.
Properties Actua PROHIBITION AGAINST IMPAIRMENT OF OBLIGATION OF

CONTRACTS
No law impairing the obligation of contracts shall be passed. [Section 10, Article III,
Constitution]
The power of taxation cannot be exercised in a manner that would impair the obligation of
contracts. What is prohibited is that a taxing statute be passed that would alter the relative
rights of the parties with each other.
The mere fact that a tax makes the conduct of a business more expensive or makes an
activity more difficult does not result in the impairment of the obligation of contracts.
Contract is impaired only if the relative position of the parties to a contract (i.e. equality that
is assumed when the contract was entered into) is disturbed by the operation of a taxing
statute.
The obligation of a contract is impaired when its terms or conditions are changed
by law or by a party without the consent of the other, thereby weakening the
position or rights of the latter.
RULES:
When the exemption is bilaterally agreed upon between the government and the
taxpayer it cannot be withdrawn without violating the non-impairment clause.
B.
When it is unilaterally granted by law, and the same is withdrawn by virtue of another
law no violation.
C.
When the exemption is granted under a franchise it may be withdrawn at any time
thus, not a violation of the non-impairment of contracts
A.
Note: A latter statute may revoke exemption from taxation provided for in a franchise
because the Constitution provides that a franchise is subject to amendment, alteration or
repeal. [Sec. 11 Art. XII]
Case Reference
OPOSA vs. FACTORAN
Police power prevails over the non-impairment clause

LA INSULAR vs. MANCHUCA
A lawful tax on a new subject or an increased tax on an old one, does not interfere
with a contract or impairs its obligation.
The constitutional guarantee of the non-impairment clause can only invoked in the
grant of tax exemption.
RULES:
1.
An example of impairment by law is when a later taxing statute revokes a tax

exemption based on a contract. But this only applies when the tax exemption has
been granted for a valid consideration.
2.
3.
42 See Dizon, citing Sherbert v. Verner 374 U.S. 398, 402 (1963), Braunfeld v. Brown, 366
A later statute may revoke exemption from taxation provided for in a franchise
because the Constitution provides that a franchise is subject to amendment,
alteration or repeal.
If the exemption was granted for valuable consideration and it is granted on the
basis of a contract.
cannot be revoked
If the exemption is granted by virtue of a contract, wherein the government enters
into a contract with a private corporation
cannot be revoked unilaterally by the government
If the basis of the tax exemption is a franchise granted by Congress and under the
franchise or the tax exemption is given to a particular holder or person
can be unilaterally revoked by the government (Congress)
U.S. 599, 607 (1961)
21
The non-impairment clause applies only to contracts and not to a

franchise.
The non-impairment clause applies to taxation but not to police power and
eminent domain.
Furthermore, it applies only where one party is the government and the
other, a private individual.
As a rule, the obligation to pay tax is based on law. But when, for
instance, a taxpayer enters into a compromise with the BIR, the obligation
of the taxpayer becomes one based on contract.
The Constitution simply means that the initiative for the filing of bills must come
from the House of Representatives, on the theory that, elected as they are from the
districts, the members of the House can be expected to be more sensitive to the
local needs and problems.
It is not the law but the revenue bill which is required by the Constitution to
originate exclusively in the House of Representatives, because a bill originating in
the House may undergo such extensive changes in the Senate that the result may
be a rewriting of the whole, and a distinct bill may be produced.
The Constitution does not also prohibit the filing in the Senate of a substitute bill in
anticipation of its receipt of the bill from the House, as long as action by the Senate
is withheld until receipt of said bill. [Tolentino v. Secretary of Finance]
Tolentino v. Sec. of Finance, supra:

1 issue that was raised was whether the imposition of the VAT on sales & leases on real
estate by virtue of contract s entered into prior to the effectivity of the law would violate the
non-impairment of contracts rule in the constitution.
HELD:
It is enough to say that parties to a contract cannot, through the exercise of

prophetic discernment, fetter the exercise of the taxing power of the state.
For not only are existing laws read into contracts in order to fix obligations as
between parties, but the reservation of essential attributes of sovereign power is
also read into contracts as a basic postulate of the legal order.
The policy of protecting contracts against impairment presupposes the
maintenance of a government which retains adequate authority to secure the
peace & good order of society.
Revenue bills shall originate exclusively from the House of Representatives

Section 24, Article VI, Constitution - All appropriation, revenue or tariff bills, bills authorizing
an increase of the public debt, bills of local application, and private bills shall originate
exclusively in the House of Representatives, but the Senate may propose or concur with
amendments.
Case References
Tolentino v. Secretary of Finance
Presidential power to grant reprieves, commutations and pardons and remit fines and
forfeitures after conviction (ART. VII, SEC. 19, 1987 CONSTITUTION)
Due Process
Taxpayer may not be
deprived
of
life,
liberty or property
without due process
of law. Notice must,
therefore, be given in
case of failure to pay
taxes
Equal Protection
Taxpayers shall be treated
alike under like circumstances
and conditions both in the
privileges
conferred
and
liabilities imposed.
Uniformity
Taxable articles, or kinds
of property of the same
class, shall be taxed at
the same rate. There
should therefore, be no
direct double taxation
PROHIBITION AGAINST IMPRISONMENT FOR NON-PAYMENT OF POLL TAX

Section 20, Article III, Constitution. No person shall be imprisoned for debt or non-payment
of poll tax.
The non-imprisonment rule applies to non-payment of poll tax which is punishable only by a
surcharge, but not to other violations like falsification of community tax certificate and nonpayment of other taxes.
Community Tax v. Poll Tax
22
Poll tax is a tax of fixed amount imposed on residents within a specific territory
regardless of citizenship, business or profession. Example is community tax.
Community tax Cities or municipalities may levy a community tax in accordance
with the provisions of this article. 156 RA 7160.
Section 157. Individuals Liable to Community Tax. - (18) or over who has been regularly
employed on a wage or salary basis for at least thirty (30) consecutive working days, or who
is engaged in business or occupation, or who owns real property with an aggregate
assessed value of One thousand pesos (P1,000.00) or more, or who is required by law to
file an income tax return shall pay an annual additional tax of Five pesos (P5.00) and an
annual additional tax of One peso (P1.00) for every One thousand pesos (P1,000.00) of
income regardless of whether from business, exercise of profession or from property which
in no case shall exceed Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00).
(1) Diplomatic and consular representatives; and

(2) Transient visitors when their stay in the Philippines does not exceed three (3) months.
Section 160. Place of Payment. - The community tax shall be paid in the place of residence
of the individual, or in the place where the principal office of the juridical entity is located.
164 (c) The proceeds of the community tax actually and directly collected by the city or
municipal treasurer shall accrue entirely to the general fund of the city or municipality
concerned. However, proceeds of the community tax collected through the barangay
treasurers shall be apportioned as follows:
(1) (50%) shall accrue to the general fund of the city or municipality concerned;
and
In the case of husband and wife, the additional tax herein imposed shall be based upon the
total property owned by them and the total gross receipts or earnings derived by them.
Section 158. Juridical Persons Liable to Community Tax. - Every corporation no matter how
created or organized, whether domestic or resident foreign, engaged in or doing business in
the Philippines shall pay an annual community tax of Five hundred pesos (P500.00) and an
annual additional tax, which, in no case, shall exceed Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) in
accordance with the following schedule:
(1) For every Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) worth of real property in the Philippines
owned by it during the preceding year based on the valuation used for the payment of real
property tax under existing laws, found in the assessment rolls of the city or municipality
where the real property is situated - Two pesos (P2.00); and
(2) For every Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) of gross receipts or earnings derived by it
from its business in the Philippines during the preceding year - Two pesos (P2.00).
The dividends received by a corporation from another corporation however shall, for the
purpose of the additional tax, be considered as part of the gross receipts or earnings of said
corporation.
Section 159. Exemptions. - The following are exempt from the community tax:
(2) (50%) shall accrue to the barangay where the tax is collected.
UNIFORMITY AND EQUITY IN TAXATION

-
same class, same rate
classification of taxpayers, subject or items to be taxed
The rule of taxation shall be uniform and equitable (Sec.28 (1), Art. III, 1987
Constitution).
The tax is uniform when it operates with the same force and effect in every
place where the subject of it is found. "Uniformity" means all property
belonging to the same class shall be taxed alike. It does not signify an
intrinsic, but simply a geographic, uniformity (Churchill & Tait vs. Conception,
34 Phil. 969). Uniformity does not require the same treatment; it simply
requires reasonable basis for classification.
The concept of equality in taxation requires that the apportionment of the tax
burden be more or less just in the light of the taxpayers ability to shoulder the
tax burden and if warranted, on the basis of the benefits received from the
government. Its cornerstone is the taxpayers ability to pay.
23
Uniformity v. equity in taxation
The concept of uniformity in taxation implies that all taxable articles or properties of
the same class shall be taxed at the same rate. It requires the uniform application
and operation, without discrimination, of the tax in every place where the subject of
the tax is found. It does not, however, require absolute identity or equality under all
circumstances, but subject to reasonable classification.
The concept of equity in taxation requires that the apportionment of the tax burden be, more
or less, just in the light of the taxpayers ability to shoulder the tax burden and, if
warranted, on the basis of the benefits received from the government. Its
cornerstone is the taxpayers ability to pay.
Eastern Theatrical Co. Inc., vs. Alfonso
there is equality and uniformity in taxation if all articles or kinds of property of the
same class are taxed at the same rate. Thus, it was held in that case, that "the fact
that some places of amusement are not taxed while others, such cinematographs,
theaters, vaudeville companies, theatrical shows, and boxing exhibitions and other
kinds of amusements or places of amusement are taxed, is not argument at all
against the equality and uniformity of tax imposition."
The taxing power has the authority to make reasonable and natural classifications
for purposes of taxation.
Case References
Tolentino v. Sec. of Finance, supra,
Equity and uniformity in taxation means that all the taxable articles or kinds of
properties of the same class be taxed at the same rate. The taxing power has the
authority to make reasonable and natural classifications for purposes of taxation.
To satisfy this requirement, it is enough that the statute or ordinance applies
equally to all persons, firms, and corporations placed in a similar situation.
It is inherent in the power to tax that the state be free to select the subjects of
taxation & it has been repeatedly held that the inequalities which result from a
singling out of 1 particular class for taxation or exception infringe no constitutional
limitation.
Manila Race Horse v. Dela Fuente No arbitrary classification
it was said there is equality and uniformity in taxation if all articles or kinds of
property of the same class are taxed at the same rate.
The owners of boarding stables for race horses and, for that matter, the race horse
owners themselves, who in the scheme of shifting may carry the taxation burden,
are a class by themselves and appropriately taxed where owners of other kinds of
horses are taxed less or not at all, considering that equity in taxation is generally
conceived in terms of ability to pay in relation to the benefits received by the
taxpayer and by the public from the business or property taxed.
Taking everything into account, the differentiation against which the plaintiffs
complain conforms to the practical dictates of justice and equity and is not
discriminatory within the meaning of the Constitution.
Equity in taxation is generally conceived in terms of liability to pay in relation to the
benefits received by the taxpayer and by the public from the business or property
taxed.
PEPSI-COLA BOTTLING
CO.
OF
THE
PHILS.,
INC.
vs.
CITY OF
BUTUAN
FACTS: The ordinance imposes taxes for every case of soft drinks, liquors and other
carbonated beverages, regardless of the volume of sales, shipped to the agents and/or
consignees by outside dealers or any person or company having its actual business
outside the City.
ISSUE: Does the tax ordinance violate the uniformity requirement of taxation?
HELD: Yes. The tax levied is discriminatory.
Even if the burden in question were regarded as a tax on the sale of said
beverages, it would still be invalid, as discriminatory, and hence, violative of the
uniformity required by the Constitution and the law therefor, since only sales by
"agents or consignees" of outside dealers would be subject to the tax. Sales by
local dealers, not acting for or on behalf of other merchants, regardless of the
volume of their sales, and even if the same exceeded those made by said agents
or consignees of producers or merchants established outside the City of Butuan,
would be exempt from the disputed tax.
24
It is true that the uniformity essential to the valid exercise of the power of taxation
does not require identity or equality under all circumstances, or negate the
authority to classify the objects of taxation.
The classification made in the exercise of this authority, to be valid, must, however,
be reasonable and this requirement is not deemed satisfied unless:
o
(1) it is based upon substantial distinctions which make real differences;
(2) these are germane to the purpose of the legislation or ordinance;
(3) the classification applies, not only to present conditions, but, also, to
future conditions substantially identical to those of the present; and
(4) the classification applies equally to all those who belong to the same
class.
Summary and Q&A

Uniformity, Equitability And Progressivity Of Taxation (Art. VI, Sec. 28(1), 1987 Constitution)
Uniformity all taxable articles or kinds of property of the same class are taxed at the
same rate.
Equitability the burden falls to those who are more capable to pay.
Progressivity rate increases as the tax base increases.
actually, directly, and exclusively used for religious, charitable, or educational

purposes shall be exempt from taxation.
a.) Actually, Directly and Exclusively
The phrase is construed as the direct and immediate and actual
application of the property itself to the purposes for which the charitable institution
is organized. It is not the use of the income from the real property that is
determinative of whether the property is used for tax-exempt purposes.
The test of exemption is the ACTUAL and EXCLUSIVE use of the
property. Exclusive is defined as possessed and enjoyed to the exclusion of
others; debarred from participation or enjoyment; and exclusively is defined, "in a
manner to exclude; as enjoying a privilege exclusively. Thus, if real property is
used for one or more commercial purposes, it is not exclusively used for the
exempted purposes but is subject to taxation. Quoting the Supreme Court in Abra
Valley College case, the lease of a portion of school to a commercial
establishment is subject to tax.
b.) The Extension Rule
Prior to the 1973 and 1987 Constitution, the term exclusively used
considers incidental use also and that the exemption in favor of property used
exclusively for charitable or educational purposes is not limited to property actually
indispensable therefor, but also extends to facilities which are incidental to and
reasonably necessary for the accomplishment of such purposes. Case in point:
Q: Is a tax law adopting a regressive system of taxation valid?

A: Yes. The Constitution does not really prohibit the imposition of indirect taxes which,
like the VAT, are regressive. The Constitutional provision means simply that indirect taxes
shall be minimized. The mandate to Congress is not to prescribe, but to evolve, a
progressive tax system. (EVAT En Banc Resolution, Tolentino, et al vs Secretary of
Finance, October 30, 1995)
lly, Directly and Exclusively Used for Religious, Charitable and Educational Purposes
Article VI. Section 28 (3) of the Constitution provides:
Roman Catholic Bishop of Nueva Segovia v. Provincial Board of Ilocos Norte

The exemption in favor of the convent in the payment of the land tax,
include not only the land actually occupied by the church, but also the adjacent ground
(which is being used for a vegetable garden) destined to the ordinary incidental uses
of man, comes under the exemption. Moreover, in regard to the lot which formerly was
the cemetery, while it is no longer used as such, neither is it used for commercial purposes
and, is now being used as a lodging house by the people who participate in religious
festivities, which constitutes an incidental use in religious functions, also comes
within the exemption.
Charitable institutions, churches and personages or convents appurtenant

thereto, mosques, non-profit cemeteries, and all lands, buildings, and improvements,
25
NOTE: The prevailing rule now is that the term exclusively does not cover incidental use.
What is meant by actual, direct and exclusive use of the property for charitable purposes is
the direct and immediate and actual application of the property itself to the purposes for
which the charitable institution is organized.
c.) Exemption from other taxes
1997 NIRC states that the organizations below shall not be taxed with respect to
income received by them:
Nonstock corporation or association organized and operated exclusively for
religious, charitable, scientific, athletic, or cultural purposes, or for the rehabilitation
of veterans, no part of its net income or asset shall belong to or inures to the benefit
of any member, organizer, officer or any specific person.
NOTE: The income of whatever kind and nature from any of their properties, real or
personal or from any of their activities for profit regardless of the disposition made of such
income shall be subject to tax.
Thus, being a non-stock and non-profit corporation does not by itself completely
exempt an institution from tax. An institution cannot use its corporate form to prevent its
profitable activities from being taxed.
In cases of gifts or donations:
Donations in favor of religious and charitable institutions are generally not
subject to tax provided, however, that not more than 30% of the said bequest, devise, or
legacy or transfer shall be used for administration purposes.
d.) Non-Violation of the Establishment Clause
Walz vs Tax Commission of City of New York
The grant of tax exemption is not sponsorship of the organizations because the
government does not transfer part of its revenue to churches but simply abstains from
demanding that the churches support the State. Instead, the tax exemption creates a more
minimal and remote involvement between church and state, far less than taxation of
churches would entail, and it restricts the fiscal relationship between them, thus tending to
complement and reinforce the desired separation insulating each from the other.
Revenue and Assets of Educational Institutions

Article XIV. Section 4 of the Constitution provides:
All revenues and assets of non-stock, non-profit educational institutions
used actually, directly, and exclusively for educational purposes shall be exempt
from taxes and duties.
a.) Meaning and Coverage of Educational Institutions
Such term, when used in laws granting tax exemptions, refers to schools,
school seminary, college or educational establishment.
CIR vs CA, YMCA Inc.
The school system is synonymous with formal education, which refers to the
hierarchically structured and chronological graded learnings organized and provided by the
formal school system and for which certification is required in order for the learner to
progress through the grades or move to the higher levels.
NOTE: Incomes which are unrelated to school operations are taxable.
b.) Requirements and Coverage of the Exemption
The educational institution must prove the ff:
It is a non-stock, non-profit educational institution.
Income MUST be derived from activities and/or used actually, directly

and exclusively for educational purposes.
The exemption extends to incidental income from ancillary activities such as those
derived from canteen, bookstore, dormitory and other facilities.
CIR vs Ateneo De Manila University

A cafeteria/canteen is being leased by the school. Although it is owned
and operated by a concessionaire, the canteen is exempted from income tax and
26
VAT so as long as the rentals paid by concessionaire are actually, directly and
exclusively used for educational purposes.
Importation of books, films, slides and other educational materials and equipment
such as computers to be actually, directly and exclusively used for educational purposes are
LIKEWISE EXEMPT from customs duties, provided guidelines under DO 137-87 are
observed.
Interest income from Philippine currency bank deposits and yield from deposit
substitute instruments used actually, directly exclusively are likewise exempt from 20% final
withholding tax subject to certain requirements.
c.) Taxability of Proprietary Educational Institutions
A Proprietary educational institution is any private school maintained and
administered by private individuals or groups with an issued permit to operate from the
Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS), or the Commission on Higher
Education (CHED), or the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA),
as the case may be, in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
Proprietary educational institutions, including those cooperatively owned, may
likewise be entitled to such exemptions, subject to the limitations provided by law, including
restrictions on dividends and provisions for reinvestment. The presence of the word
may indicates only permissiveness, which means the Congress has the discretion to grant
exemptions. These institutions, at present, are not exempt from income tax but only
subject to a special lower rate.
Preferential Tax on Income and Predominance Test
Proprietary educational institutions and hospitals which are non-profit shall pay a
tax of ten percent (10%) on their taxable income. If the gross income from unrelated trade,
business or other activity exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the total gross income derived by
such educational institutions or hospitals from all sources, the thirty (30%) normal income
tax shall be imposed on the entire taxable income. The term 'unrelated trade, business or
other activity' means any trade, business or other activity, the conduct of which is not
substantially related to the exercise or performance by such educational institution or
hospital of its primary purpose or function.
Illustration:
X Educational Institution earned a net income of 300 million pesos, 150 million of
which came from unrelated activities. On that note, 10% tax shall be imposed on the 300
million. But, if 151 million came from unrelated activities, 30% tax shall be imposed on the
300 million.
Doctrinal Pronouncement on CIR vs St. Lukes Medical Center

To be a charitable institution, however, an organization must meet the substantive
test of charity in Lung Center. The issue in Lung Center concerns exemption from real
property tax and not income tax. However, it provides for the test of charity in our
jurisdiction. Charity is essentially a gift to an indefinite number of persons which lessens the
burden of government. In other words, charitable institutions provide for free goods and
services to the public which would otherwise fall on the shoulders of government.
As a general principle, a charitable institution does not lose its character as such
and its exemption from taxes simply because it derives income from paying patients,
whether out-patient, or confined in the hospital, or receives subsidies from the government,
so long as the money received is devoted or used altogether to the charitable object
which it is intended to achieve; and no money inures to the private benefit of the
persons managing or operating the institution.
In order to be exempted from income tax, Sec. 30 (B) of the NIRC requires that
both the organization and operations of the charitable institution must be devoted
"exclusively" for charitable purposes. This is qualified by its last paragraph, which states that
if a tax exempt charitable institution conducts "any" activity for profit, such activity is not tax
exempt even as its not-for-profit activities remain tax exempt. Thus, even if the charitable
institution must be "organized and operated exclusively" for charitable purposes, it is
nevertheless allowed to engage in "activities conducted for profit" without losing its
tax exempt status for its not-for-profit activities.
St. Luke's had total revenues of P1,730,367,965 from services to paying patients.
It cannot be disputed that a hospital which receives approximately P1.73 billion from paying
patients is not an institution "operated exclusively" for charitable purposes. Clearly,
revenues from paying patients are income received from "activities conducted for
profit." St. Luke's claims that its charity expenditure of P218,187,498 is 65.20% of its
operating income in 1998. However, if a part of the remaining 34.80% of the operating
27
income is reinvested in property, equipment or facilities used for services to paying and nonpaying patients, then it cannot be said that the income is "devoted or used altogether to the
charitable object which it is intended to achieve." The income is plowed back to the
corporation not entirely for charitable purposes, but for profit as well.
Government Educational Institutions
Government educational institutions, like the University of the Philippines,
are likewise exempted from taxes with respect to revenues derived pursuant to
its educational purpose and revenues actually, directly and exclusively used
therefor. Conversely, income from trade, business or other activity which is not
related to their educational purposes or functions shall be subject to internal
revenue taxes when the same is not actually, directly, exclusively used for
the intended purpose/s.
NOTE: These jurisdictions are concurrent with the Regional Trial Courts; thus, the petition
should generally be filed with the RTC following the hierarchy of courts. However, questions
on tax laws are usually filed direct with the Supreme Court as these are imporessed with
paramount public interest. It is also provided under Sec. 30, Art VI of the Constitution that
no law shall be passed increasing the appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court without
its advice and concurrence.
Prohibitions against Imprisonment for Non-Payment of Poll Tax

A person may be imprisoned for non-payment of internal revenue taxes,
such as income tax as well as other taxes that are not poll taxes if expressly
provided by law. A person cannot be sent to prison for failure to pay the community
tax.
Transmissions to Educational Institutions

Sec. 87 of the NIRC is explicit:
The following shall not be taxed:
The merger of usufruct in the owner of the naked title;
The transmission or delivery of the inheritance or legacy by the fiduciary

heir or legatee to the fideicommissary;
The transmission from the first heir, legatee or donee in favor of another
beneficiary, in accordance with the desire of the predecessor; and
All bequests, devises, legacies or transfers to social welfare, cultural and

charitable institutions, no part of the net income of which insures to the
benefit of any individual: Provided, however, That not more than thirty
percent (30%) of the said bequests, devises, legacies or transfers shall be
used by such institutions for administration purposes.
The legality of any penalty imposed in relation thereto (Sec. 5[2][b],

Art. VIII, 1987 Constitution)
Origin of Revenue and Tariff Bills
This is based on the theory that, elected as they are from the districts, the
members of the House of Representatives can be expected to be more sensitive to
the local needs and problems.
NOTE: It is not the law but the revenue bill which must originate exclusively in the House
of Representatives. The bill may undergo such extensive changes that the result may be a
rewriting of the whole. The Senate may not only concur with amendments but also propose
amendments.
Non-Impairment of the Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court can review judgments or orders of lower
courts in all cases involving:
The legality of any tax, impost, assessment, or toll;
CHAPTER 4: TAX EXEMPTIONS, ESCAPE FROM TAXATION & DOUBLE TAXATION
Tax Exemption
o Definition :
28
it is a grant of immunity,
express or implied,
to particular persons or corporations

from the obligation to pay taxes
in whole or in part
Kinds of Tax Exemption:
As to Source:
1. Constitutional
2. Statutory
3. Treaty/Executive Agreements
4. Contractual (for a consideration)
As to Manner of Grant:
1. Express
o Verbally/oral
o In writing/ statutes
2. Implied
o Manifested by conduct
o Considering the totality of circumstances
As to Scope
1. Total/full/All-in/All the way
o Relates to the whole/entire tax
2. Partial/1st-base lang
o Affects only a portion
Tax exemptions may be given to achieve long term economic objectives:

Exemptions, incentives and the likes are given, by the state, occasionally
To attract new business; as well as
To stimulate and elevate our economy towards economic

prosperity and progress.
o Its designed, not to trigger off an instant surge of revenues on a one night
short term basis, but rather to achieve a longer term symbiotic
relationship which is way better than a one night-er.
o
What is the task of the Court?
CIR vs. Procter and Gamble (204 SCRA 377)
The task of the court is to GIVE EFFECT to the legislative design

and objectives as they are written into the statute ** EVEN IF
SOME REVENUES are lost in that very smart process.
Because the congress knows what theyre doing. lol.
Basis: Separation of powers and stuff like that

Exclusions and Deductions:
o Exemption vs. Exclusion
Tax Exemption
Refers to a statutory exception from the payment of
taxes; whereas
Exclusion
Refers to the Total absence/ or want/ or lack of taxation
in a particular circumstance
o example:
the non-inclusion in the taxpayers

taxable gross income of gifts,
bequest, and devises under Sec 32
(B)(3) of the NIRC
o
Exemption vs. Deduction
Exemption
Refers to removal from taxation of a particular class or
item; whereas
Deduction
Refers to the reduction of taxable items
by way of subtraction of other items.
o example:
Under Section 34 NIRC: the ordinary

business expenses and depreciation
are deductable.
Deduction & Exclusion; Nature:
They are in the nature of Tax Exemptions
Thus, they are STRICTLY CONSTRUED
Approaches for Exemption

o P I Org - I
1. Exemptions of Property
2. Exemption of Individuals
3. Exemption of Organization
4. Exemptions of Income
29
Exemption of individuals
- certain classes of individual may be granted tax exemption within the tax
system which depends on multiple criteria.
Specific monetary exemptions

- Monetary reduction of the tax base
o Personal allowance
o Which may be claimed to reduce the
taxable income
- Similar to the 50k basic personal exemption
and the 25k additional exemption for every
dependent under Section 35 of the NIRC.
Tax exempt status
- Includes the exemptions to senior
citizens and minimum wage earners
(RA 9994 & 9504)
- A statute which provides a potential
tax payer complete relief from tax, or
a reduction on the rate, or a tax only
on a portion of the items.
Exemptions of Organizations
An exemption to organizations which meets certain conditions

imposed by the taxing authority
It may be based on definitions or restriction or

characteristics set forth by law
1.
2.
3.
Charitable, Religious and non-profit organizations:

o These entities are considered to serve public purposes
Government and its entities
o General rule:
The government and its instrumentalities are

exempt from tax and the local government
may never ever ever ever tax the national
government. Them boys only have delegated
powers. The delegated powers cannot be
superior to the powers of the one who
delegated the power.
Entities on pension schemes
Based on social justice. It complements social

legislation.
o Pensions which do not amount to income are not
taxable.
Educational institutions
o
4.
Exemptions of Income
Includes:
Income earned outside the taxing jurisdiction
Income consisting of compensation for loss
Inherited properties acquired by gifts
Income earned in specific areas, such as the Special

Economic Zone, enterprises zones, etc.
Exemption of Property
Certain properties used for religious/educational/charitable

purposes
Properties owned by the BSP within 5 years from the effectivity

of the General Banking Law are exempt from taxes
Properties owned and used by Government, like for example the

GSIS, provided that they comply with certain conditions.
Reciprocal Exemptions
o Some tax jurisdictions allow tax exemptions Subject to Reciprocity
o States may enter into a bilateral agreement which provides for certain tax
exemptions this stipulation is common in:
tax treaties
Cross border agreements
DTAs Double Taxation Agreements
Limitation under the constitution

o Under Section 28(4) Article VI of the 1987 Constitution:
no law granting tax exemption shall be passed without the

CONCURRENCE of a Majority of all the Members of the
Congress
o
NOT SUBJECT TO CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS:
Exemption is not the same as a total absence of taxation, thus:
30
A repeal or withdrawal of a tax law resulting to non taxability of

all taxpayers = or a total absence of taxation is not subject to the
constitutional limitations.
Strict Construction & Burden of Proof:

1.
It is NOT PRESUMED.
Exemption is highly disfavored in law (CIR vs. Manila Jockey

Club)
The law frowns on exemption, hence an exempting

provisions should be construed STRICTISSIMI JURIS.
General Rule: Taxation is the Rule
Exception: Exemption is the Exception

o Thus , Exemptions are CONSTRUED
STRICTLY against the grantee; and
o LIBERALLY in favor of the Taxing authority.
Burden of Proof:
Rests upon the person who is claiming for the

exemption. (Caltex Phil. Vs. Commission on Audit)
o The party claiming the exemption must
therefore be clearly/unequivocally/expressly
mentioned in the exempting law or at least
within the purview of the legislative intent.
2.
it must be Justified by Words TOO Plain to be Mistaken

(unequivocal/Clear/Direct to the point)
it must be expressly granted in a statute in a language too clear

to be mistaken, and too categorical to be misinterpreted
3.
It is a PERSONAL Privilege:
Exemptions, like taxes, are personal. It does not extend to yo

mama.
4.
Never created by Implication:
An exemption from a common burden cannot be permitted to

exist based on some vague implications (Asiatic Petroleum Co.
vs. Llanes)
There must be Convincing Proof
The term which grants exemption must be crystal clear, and

convincing.
5.
6.
F. Equity it does not apply:
it lacks statutory basis
7.
Exemption is Not INHERENT:
Exemption cannot be deduced from concepts an argument that

exemptions are inherent in a special economic zone is a
heresy.
The exemptions of SE proceeds from the law, and not the other
way around. The tail does not wag the dog. (John Hay vs. Lim
(2005))
8.
it cannot be granted by Regulation
the subordinate legislation made by Quasi Judicial Bodies

cannot be superior to the fundamental law. The Constitution
provides for the mechanism for granting tax exemptions.
9.
There is No VESTED Right in a Tax Exemption
It is a mere statutory privilege which may be modified or

withdrawn at the will of the granting authority, depending on the
external circumstances of the socio political and economic stuff;
depending internally on their whims and caprices; depending
more importantly on your budget.
10. A tax exemption CANNOT be GROUNDED upon the continued

existence of a statute which precludes its change or repeal
No law is irrepealable. Nothing is forever.
Even Sasha Grey will be forgotten in time.
Basis of Strictissimi Juris:

1. Doctrine of Strict interpretation
I.
The lifeblood theory
The blood is the life thus exemptions are highly

disfavored in law.
II.
Equal treatment of taxpayers
Strict construction in order to minimize differential

treatment which results to partiality, unfairness and
some bad stuff.
III.
Sovereign Act
31
Tax you if you claim to be exempt. Taxation is a high

prerogative of sovereignty whose relinquishment is
never presumed (Luzon Stevedoring vs. CA)
Exceptions to Strict Constructions:

1. If the law is clear , unambiguous, unequivocal there is not room for
construction
2.
When the law does not provide a qualification for tax exemption then
the court cannot supply one
Ubi lex non distinguit nec nos non distinguerre debemus.

3. When the exemption refers to public property
In this case the rule is exemption, taxation is the exception

4. Exemption in favor of the Government, its instrumentalities and agencies.
5. When the law itself provide for liberal constructions
6. In case of special laws imposing a special tax
7. Exemption to Religious, Charitable, Educational institutions (the usual
stuff)
Constitutional Grants do not need legislative enactment:

1. They are presumed to be self executing (Manila Prince Hotel vs. GSIS;
Oposa vs. Factoran) unless stated otherwise.
Otherwise the very purpose and intention of the fundamental law

could be nullified by the legislature; their effectivity would be
subject to the mercy of the congress.
Withdrawal of Exemption
1. Exemption may be withdrawn at the pleasure of the taxing authority.
So if you dont want your exemption to be withdrawn, you must

pleasure the taxing authority.
2. Exception:
When the exemption was granted based on a MATERIAL

CONSIDERATION of a mutual nature, it partakes the nature of a
Contract
Non impairment Clause.
Illustrations; Examples ; Application

1. Tax exemption covering items used in Constructions
It does not apply to taxes on unrelated items

2. Exemptions to corporations on things directly connected to something,
does not cover those which are not directly related to it
3. Tax exempt bonds received is not exempt in computing income tax
4. Condonation is in a nature of a tax exemption to be exempt there
must be a clear cut provision in law condoning such taxes.
5. Salaries of Judges are taxable (Nitifan vs. CIR) - what the constitution
prohibits is that their salaries may not be decreased during their
continuance in office.
6. an exemption on the sale of machinery does not extend to the products
produced by such machinery
7. Maceda vs. Macaraeg Jr. the NPC was exempted from both direct and
indirect taxes they are exempt from absorbing the economic burden of
taxes previously paid to the BIR thus the NPC is entitled to be
reimbursed by the BIR.
Examples:
If the exemption is based on the constitution:
o It may be withdrawn only by an amendment to
the Constitution.
If the exemption is granted by a special law
o it cannot be withdrawn by a regulation,
o It cannot be withdrawn by a general law:
EVEN when the terms of the general

law is so broad, as to include the
matter in general law, it cannot be
withdrawn
Except if there is a manifest intent

to alter or repeal the special law; if
there is a special/specific provision in
the general law which clearly intends
to repeal the special law.
If the tax exemption is based on a TREATY

o May be revoked only pursuant to the
withdrawal provision of the treaty.
Only Congress has the power to grant tax incentives
32
1.
2.
Taxation is an inherent power which is legislative in nature. The power to

select the subjects of tax, and the power to grant exemptions is inherent
in the legislature, since it involves the promulgation of laws.
Basis:
Article VI Section 28(4) of the Constitution provides: no law

granting any tax exemption shall be passed without the
concurrence of a majority of all the members of the
CONGRESS including Manny Pacquiao
Tax-exempt buyer vs. Tax exempt transaction

1. If the BUYER is EXEMPT
Seller is still taxable/liable as the tax is not a tax on the buyer

2. If the TRANSACTION is EXEMPT
Seller is not liable for tax. There is no tax due.
If the buyer is not so smart and he pays taxes despite the fact
that the transaction is exempt
It is the sellers obligation to hold in trust for the buyer

the refunded tax
HORNBOOK DOCTRINE in applying tax exemption principles
Before determining if the person is tax exempt, we must first

determine if he falls within the scope covered by the law
imposing taxes
It is illogical and impractical to determine who are exempted

without first determining who are covered by the tax provisions.
2. It is a HORNBOOK DOCTRINE in the interpretation of tax laws:
That a Statute will not be construed as imposing a tax

>>>>Unless
it
does
so
Clearly,
expressly,
and
unambiguously.<<<<<
A tax cannot be imposed without clear and express words for

that purpose.
3. The provision of a taxing act cannot be extended by mere implication.
4. In case of doubt,
it is construed most strongly against the government and in favor

of the tax payers,
Because burdens are not to be imposed nor presumed to be

imposed beyond what statutes expressly and clearly import (CIR
vs. CA)
REFUNDS
1. Definition
Tax refunds is the return of excess amounts of income tax that a

taxpayer has paid to the state or local government throughout
the past year
In Reality it represents an interest free loan that a taxpayer

makes to the government because the government merely
returns the exact amount regardless of the period that has
lapsed.
2.
NATURE:CONSTRUCTION; EVIDENCE
Tax Refunds are in the nature of a tax exemption/ a derogation

of sovereign authority
Construed Strictissimi Juris against the person claiming the

refund; as well as the pieces of evidence presented which
must be scrutinized.
burden of proof is upon him who claims the exemptions
Persons entitled in case of indirect tax

1. The Statutory Taxpayer
The proper party
The person on whom the tax is imposed by law, and who paid
the same even if he shifts the burden to another.
2. The person who shoulders the burden (indirect tax = part of the purchase
price) has no cause of action against the taxing authority.
TAX AMNESTY
1. Definition
It is an OPPORTUNITY afforded to a taxpayer to RECTIFY

errors or omissions in past tax years or returns relieving
delinquent tax debts and criminal prosecution.
It is a GOVERNMENT PROGRAM (permanent or for a limited

period) which allows the taxpayers to address the collecting
agency and disclose inaccurate information from the past tax
years, without penalty or prosecution
2.
Nature and Characteristics
It partakes an absolute forgiveness or WAIVER by the

Government of its right to collect what otherwise would be due to
it,
33
And to give tax evaders and other fuckers, who wish to relent
and are willing to reform, a chance to do so, to become part of
the new society with a clean slate. (CIR vs. Botelho corp)
3 General Characteristics of a Typical Amnesty
I.
Short lived (2-3 months)
II.
Voluntary (participation is up to them)
III.
Waiver of fines and penalties but not the principal amount of taxes
that are due.(unless if the amnesty law provides otherwise)
3.
CONTROVERSIAL ISSUE: Tax Amnesty
The proponent of a tax amnesty claims that the government

can raise more tax revenue
Not only in the short run from collecting overdue taxes
But also by bringing them old bitch fucks into the tax
system for the long run.
However, some questions as to whether this shit really produces

additional revenue given that they simply collect revenue that
could have been raised in a normal enforcement procedures.
They said that tax amnesties induces or provides

incentives to honest tax payer to start evading taxes, in
hope of an amnesty in the future, and this shit tends to
weaken tax compliance.
4.
Amnesty is not presumed
Strictissimi juris
Not covered by the Presidents Amnesty Powers under the RPC.

Based on the Constitution Article 6 Section 28 a tax exemption
can only by granted with the concurrence of all the members of
the congress.
5.
Government is never estopped from questioning a tax liability even

if amnesty tax payments were already received by it.
The erroneous application of a tax law by a public officer do

not prohibit subsequent correction
Basis: lifeblood
EXCEPTION
Republic vs IAC(1991)
Issue: Won the payment of deficiency income tax

under the tax amnesty (PD#213) and its acceptance by
the government operated to divest the government of

its right to further recover from the taxpayer, even if
there was an existing assessment against the latter at
the time he paid the amnesty tax.
HELD:
o Even assuming that the deficiency tax
assessment were correct, since the latter have
already paid almost the equivalent amount to
the government by way to amnesty taxes
under PD#213, and were granted not merely
an exemption BUT AN AMNESTY for the
past tax failings, the Gov. is not ESTOPPED
from collecting the difference.
6.
Availment of tax amnesty is a purely personal defense and not

available to co conspirators
- People vs. Castan~eda
- The defense relates to the circumstances of a particular accused
and not to the character of the acts charged in the criminal
information.
7.
Effects of Use of All Encompassing Words

- Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. vs. CIR
If the amnesty law uses an ALL-ENCOMPASSING
WORDS
There is absolutely no basis to limit immunity resulting
from the payment of the tax amnesty only to income
tax and to exclude others.
8.
Amnesty in case of Merger

- Tax liabilities of the Merged Corporation are ABSORBED by the
surviving corporation.
Escape From Taxation
SHI T Ca P- ha- D S- a-D

Forms of Escape from Taxation
1. Tax Shifting
2. Tax Transformation
3. Tax Capitalization
4. Transfer Pricing
34
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Resort to tax Haven

Tax Deferral
Tax Shelter
Tax Avoidance
Tax Dodging/Evasion
Tax Shifting:
o It is the transfer of the burden of tax by the original payer (impact) to
another (incidence)
Impact of taxation the point on which the tax is originally

imposed
Incidence the point where the final burden settles down

o Direct tax cannot be shifted.
o Tax cannot be shifter if:
i.
Purely personal (poll tax)
ii.
It has no relation to any business dealing of the taxpayer
(donors/estate tax)
iii.
If it is levied on economic surplus (income tax)
o
Kinds of shifting
i.
Forward s. when the burden is transferred from a factor of
production thru the factors of distribution until it finally settles on
the ultimate purchaser/consumer. (example : seller increase
price of beer)
ii.
Backward s. when the burden is transferred from the
consumer thru the factors of distribution to the factors of
production (example: seller doesnt increase the price of beer
but reduces the price in materials)
iii.
Onward s. when the tax is shifted 2 or more times either
forward or backward.
Tax Capitalization/amortization
- Circumstance where the purchaser of a taxable object, by cutting
down the purchase price, discounts all the taxes which he may
be called to pay upon in the future.
- By depreciating the capital value to a sum equal to the
capitalized value of the tax (1/5 = 20%)
Tax Transformation
In a situation where the producer upon whom the tax is imposed fearing
that the consumers would not opt to buy his shit if he adds the tax to the
price
- The producer pays the tax; and
- endeavors to recoup himself by improving/transforming his process of
production to make it more cost effective.
- The loss due is TRANSFORMED to a gain.
Resort to TAX Haven/ secrecy jurisdiction
- Definition
It is a place that deliberately provides an escape route for people

or entities elsewhere, shielding them from whatever taxes,
criminal laws, licking their balls clean
It is a State where certain taxes are levied at a low rate or not at

all while offering due process, good governance, and low
corruption rate.
It is a country that imposes little or no tax on profits.

- When is a place considered as a tax haven?
If it has a composite tax structure established deliberately to take

advantage of a worldwide demand for opportunities to engage in
tax avoidance
- Examples?
Liechtenstein
Panama
Bahamas
British Virgin Islands

Transfer Pricing
- It is the price charged by 1 segment of an organization
For a product/service supplied to another segment of the same

organization
Especially, the charged assigned to an exchange of goods or

services between a corporations organizational units.
- When subsidiaries inside 1 company trade with each other across
borders, they can manipulate the internal transfer prices in order to shift
their cost into high tax countries, and shift the profit into low taxing
countries/haven.
Transfer Mispricing
o Happens when transfer pricing is ABUSED.
- Unitary Taxation
o Related to Transfer Pricing
-
35
The income of all related parts of the company are combined

and the profits are shared between different countries where
they were actually created by using an agreed formula based on
a ratio of sales, employment costs and capital invested
There is a need to regulate it : because it has grave implications on tax
liabilities.
Section 50 of NIRC:
o Authorizes the CIR to distribute/allocate gross income or
deductions between 2 or more organizations owned directly or
indirectly by the same interests if such distribution apportionment
or allocation is necessary in order to prevent evasion of taxes or
clearly to reflect the income of any such organization, trade or
business.
Stateless Income/Homeless Income:
o It is the result of transfer pricing/mispricing.
o It means profit earned in a country other than where the firm is
headquartered and subject to tax only in another country which
imposes little or no tax.
o Particularly, stateless income comprises income derived for tax
purposes by a multinational group from business activities in a
country other than the domicile of the groups ultimate parent
company, but which is subject to tax only in a jurisdiction that is
neither the source of the factors of production through which the
income was derived, nor the domicile of the groups parent
company.
deductions such as mortgage loan interest, mortgage insurance and

property taxes.
Tax Deferral
o Paying taxes in the future for income earned in the current year
o Some bitches leave their profits offshore untaxed they dont have to pay
shit unless they repatriate said income to their home base
Tax Shelter
o It is a sexy device used by a taxpayer to reduce or defer payment of
taxes; or any financial investment made in order to acquire expenses,
depreciation allowances, etc, or to defer income so as to reduce ones
income tax.
o It includes investment or deposits in accounts that are not heavily taxed
and shit (example long term deposits); and investing in real estate to avail
Tax Avoidance and Evasion

o This 2 sons of bitches are the 2 most common ways used by your
average motherfucker in escaping taxation (CIR vs Estate of Benigno
Toda)
o TO AVOID IS LEGAL
o TO EVADE IS ILLEGAL
Tax Avoidance/Loophole
o A tax saving device within the means sanctioned by law
o Should be used in good faith and at arms length.
o
To get around/avoid the spirit of the law and the will of the legislature,
WITHOUT ACTUALLY BREAKING THE LAW
o It is the lessening of tax liabilities thru maximizations of deductions
exclusion and exemptions and the minimization of income by legal
means.
Tax Evasion- Dodge/Dodging

o A scheme used outside of those lawful means and when availed of, it
usually subjects the taxpayer to further civil or criminal liabilities (CIR vs
Estate of Benigno Toda)
o Illegal method of paying taxes
Criminal activity
Usually thru deception

o Elements of Tax Evasion; 3 factors
1. The END to be Achieved
o Pay less- or not pay at all bitch
2. State of mind
o It must be fucking intentional
o Bad faith / willful
3. A course of action or failure of action which is unlawful
Tax Fraud (intentional fraud)

o The use of deceit in order to evade taxes
o Fraud
1. Actual
2. Constructive
36
3. Anything calculated to deceive them bitches

Including all acts, omissions, and concealment involving a
breach of legal/equitable duty, trust or confidence justly reposed,
resulting in the damage to another, or by which an undue and
unconscionable advantage is taken of another.
o Cannot be usually proven by direct proof
It must be proven by circumstantial

evidence
and
reasonable
inference
Negligence is not equivalent to fraud(whether slight or gross)
The fraudulent intent cannot be presumed
Intentional fraud must be established: he must act knowingly and

willfully
Assessment is not necessary
Ungab vs. Cusi, Jr.
An assessment of deficiency is not necessary to a
criminal prosecution for willful attempt to defeat and
evade the income tax xxx A crime is complete when the
motherfucker with intent to evade - acted knowingly
and willfully. The fact that the government failed to
discover the error and failed to assess promptly xxx has
no connection with the commission of the crime
It must first be proved that a tax is due

In CIR vs CA:
before 1 is prosecuted for tax evasion, the fact that a
tax is due must first be proven.
No prima facie case not fraudulent unless and until
the BIR has made a final determination of what is
supposed to be the correct tax, the taxpayer should not
be placed in the crucible of criminal prosecution
In Ungab vs. Cusi Jr:
For a criminal prosecution to proceed without
assessment there must 1st be a PRIMA FACIE
showing of willful attempt to evade taxes.
Substance over form

The court should examine with particular care the forms
used by him for the accomplishment of his purpose and
if his ingenuity fails at any point, such court should not

lend him its aid by resolving doubts in his favor.
Payment is NOT A VALID DEFENSE
Payment after apprehension is fucked up it is not a
valid defense. Because he already transgressed the
law.
Prima facie evidence of fraud

1. Sec. 248 B NIRC: A Substantial Underdeclaration of taxable
income/sales/receipt
Or a Substantial OVERDECLARATION of Deductions
o Shall constitute PRIMA FACIE evidence of
false or fraudulent return
Failure to report sales/income/ receipt in an amount
exceeding 30% of that declared per return
o And a claim of deductions in an amount
exceeding 30% of actual deductions
o Shall render the taxpayer liable for substantial
underdeclaration of sales, receipts or income
or for overstatement of deductions
2. Failure to declare for taxation purposes True and Actual income
derived from business for 2 consecutive years
3. Substantial under declaration of income in the tax returns for 4
consecutive years coupled with intentional overstatements of
deductions.
Must be proven by Circumstantial evidence

inferences
It generally involves the following elements:
1. Deception
2. Misrepresentation of material facts
3. False or altered documents
4. Evasion/ diversion / omission
Badges of Fraud
5. Improper deductions
6. Accounting irregularities
7. Inconsistent explanation/behavior
8. Attempt to conceal illegal acts
9. Inadequate records
10. Failure to file returns
and
reasonable
37
11. Destruction of records (acts)

o
Honest difference in opinion and inadvertence do not amount to

fraud
There must be a clear and convincing evidence to prove that
some part of the underpayment of a tax was due to fraud.
Intent is different from mere inadvertence, honest difference in
opinion, reliance on an incorrect technical advice, negligence or
carelessness.
Tax credit
Tax Credit vs Tax Deduction
o Tax Credit
Generally refers to an amount that is subtracted directly from

ones total tax liability
It is an allowance against the tax itself, or a deduction from what

is owed by a taxpayer to the government
Examples
Withheld taxes, payments of estimated tax, and
investment tax credits
o Tax Deductions
A subtraction from income for tax purposes, or an amount that is

allowed by law to reduce income prior to the application of the
tax rate to compute the amount of tax which is due.
Tax Liability is required for tax credit
o There ought to be a tax liability before a tax credit can be applied
Since the purpose of a tax credit is to reduce the tax liability.

Without any tax liability, the tax credit is a piece of shit. It would
be PREMATURE and IMPRACTICAL.
o The existence of a tax credit is not the same as the availment (tax credit
is mandatory; whereas the availment of such credit is optional)
Prior tax payment not necessary
o While tax liability is necessary for the availment of a tax credit prior tax
payments are not. Payment is not indispensible.
o Nirc is replete with provisions granting tax credits even though no taxes
have been previously paid
Examples
Under Section 86(E) in computing estate tax due a

tax credit is allowed subject to certain limitations. The
tax credit in this instance allude to the prior payment of
taxes, even if not made to out government.
Sec 110 a VAT registered person engaging in
transactions is allowed a tax credit that includes a
ratable portion of any input tax xxx which does not need
to be paid etc etc.
Tax credit is not the same as a discount
o Tax credit
Is a deduction after the income is computed

o Discount
Is a deduction before the income is computed

1. Cash discount
One granted by business to credit customers for their prompt payment
Purchase discount is on the part of the seller
2. Quantity discount
Reduction in price allowed for purchase made in large quantities justified
by savings in packaging, shipping and handling
- A.k.a : Volume or Bulk discount
3. Trade discount
Percentage reduction from the list price allowed by manufacturer to
wholesalers.
Chain Discount a series of discounts from one list price is recorded at
net
4. Functional discount
Similar to trade discount
Double Taxation
Double Taxation
o Definition
Taxing twice the same subject matter -done by the same taxing
authority, within the same taxing district, for the same purpose, in
the same taxing period.
o No constitutional prohibition
It is not forbidden by our fundamental law
It is not favored but is still permissible
38
Discretion of the Legislative
General Rule:
o Double taxation should not be permitted
unless the legislature has authority to impose
it.
However
o Since the taxing power is exclusively a
legislative function, and since it is absolute
and unlimited: it is generally held that there is
nothing to prevent the imposition of more than
one tax on the same subject matter, in the
absence of an express or implied
constitutional prohibition xxx such is a matter
within the discretion of the legislature.
Kinds of double taxation

1.
2.
Direct Duplicate taxation (obnoxious double

taxation)
o In order to constitute double taxation in the
objectionable/prohibited sense:
The same subject matter must e

taxed twice for the same purpose,
by the same taxing authority, within
the same taxing jurisdiction, during
the same period, and they must be of
the same kind or character.
Indirect duplicate taxation
o When any or some of the requisites of direct
duplicate taxation are not present. This is
permissible.
Schemes to AVOID double taxation

1. Tax Credit
o A sum deducted from the total amount a
taxpayer owes to the taxing authority
2. Tax Deduction
Fixed amount or percentage write-off or

permitted reduction in the gross amount on
which a tax is calculated.
Tax Reduction
o Relinquishing or reducing the amount or rate
of tax a taxpayer has to pay.
o Example
The TAX SPARING CREDIT RULE

under Section28 of the NIRC.
Tax Exemption
o Immunity from this
Tax Treaties
o Agreement between 2 jurisdictions that
mitigates the problem of double taxation that
can occur when tax laws consider a taxpayer a
resident of more than 1 jurisdiction.
o
3.
4.
5.
INTERNATIONAL JURIDICAL DOUBLE TAXATION (IJDT)

o The imposition of comparable taxes in 2 or more states on the same
taxpayer in respect of the same subject matter and for identical periods.
o
Rationale for doing away with this:
To encourage free flow of goods and services and the movement

of capital, technology and persons between countries, conditions
deemed vital in creating robust and dynamic economies.
Foreign investments will only thrive in a fairly predictable and
reasonable international investment climate and the protection
against double taxation is crucial in creating such a climate.
2 General Approaches to AVOID IJDT

1. Territorial based system
o The foreign source income is normally
exempted from domestic tax
o it generally leaves the taxation of foreign
income to the government whose territory the
activity occurs
2. Worldwide income/global
o This approach necessitated the development
of specific mechanisms to reduce double
39
taxation when the country within whose

borders the income had been derived also
imposed a tax on that income
o
Methods in tax treaties
1st method
Tax Treaty sets out the respective right to tax of the

STATE OF SOURCE and the STATE OF RESIDENCE
with regard to certain classes of income or capital.
In some cases an EXCLUSIVE right to tax is

conferred on one state
2nd method
o The STATE OF SOURCE is given a full or
limited right to tax together with the STATE OF
RESIDENCE
In this case the treaties make it

incumbent upon the state of
residence to tallow relief in order to
avoid double taxation.
1. EXEMPTION METHOD
a. The income which is taxable in the state of
source is exempted in the state of residence
b. This may be done by using tax deduction
methods which allows foreign income to be
deducted from the gross income :in effect
exempting the payment from being further
taxed.
c. The focus is on the income or capital
2. Credit Method
a. Although the income is taxed in both the State
of Source and the State of Residence the tax
paid in the state of source is credited against
the tax levied in the state of residence.
b. The focus is on the tax
Income tax credit under Philippine law

o NIRC
Credit against Tax for taxes of Foreign countries

- If a taxpayer signifies in his return his desire to have the
benefits of this paragraph, the tax imposed by this Title
shall be credited with:
Citizen and Domestic Corporation

Partnership and Estates
An alien individual and a foreign

corporation shall not be allowed
the credits against the tax for the
taxes of foreign countries allowed
under this paragraph.
Read Sec 34 and 86 if NIRC.

Limitations on Credit
Tax Credit for Estate Tax Paid to a Foreign Country
o
o
Most favored nation clause

o The purpose of this clause is to grant to the contracting party treatment
not less favorable than that which has been granted to the most favored
among other countries.
o Intended to establish a principle of equality of international treatment by
providing that the citizens or subjects of the contracting nations may
enjoy the privileges accorded by either party to those of the most favored
nation.
To allow the taxpayer of 1 state to avail the more liberal

provisions granted in another tax treaty. For equality of
treatment.
CHAPTER 5: TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Tax Law it is a body of rules under which the public authority has a claim on taxpayers
requiring them to transfer to the authority party of their income or their property
Tax laws may be:
1. Material Tax Law it is the analysis of the legal provisions giving rise to the
charging of tax
2. Formal Tax Law it concerns the rules laid down in the law as to assessment,
enforcement, procedure, coercive measures, administrative and judicial appeal,
and other matters.
Tax provisions are:
40
Mandatory which means that the security of the citizens or which are
designed to ensure equality of taxation or certainty as to the nature and
amount of each persons tax.
o Failure to follow renders invalid the act or proceeding to which it
relates.
Directory it is for the information or direction of officers or to secure
methodical and systematic modes of proceedings
o Failure to follow makes the act merely irregular
Nature of Tax Laws

a. A public law - falls within the domain of public law
b. Special Law - prevails over a general law
c. Not Political in Nature - deemed to be the laws of the occupied territory and not of
the occupying enemy.
d. Not Penal a statute is penal when it imposes punishment for the offense
committed against the state which is under the constitution. It is not a penal law but
a law with a penal sanction.
o Its main purpose is to cover the rules, policies and laws that oversee
the revenue-raising process.
Implications of Tax not being a Penal law
I.
Prohibition on ex post facto law is not applicable
It applies only to criminal matters
Ex post facto law is one which alters the legal rules of evidence and
authorizes conviction upon less or different testimony than the law
required at the time of the commission of the offense.
I
No retroactive effect even if beneficial to the tax payer

Tax laws, even if beneficial to the taxpayer cannot be given retroactive
effect in the absence of legislative intent to that effect
However, the nature of the tax and the circumstances in which it is laid
must be considered before it can be said that its retroactive application is
so oppressive as to transgress the Constitutional limitation.
It is applied prospectively
They are prospective in operation
However, while it is not favored, a statute may still operate retroactively
provided that it is expressly declared or is clearly the legislative intent.
Res judicata is inapplicable

This is due to the difference in the quantum of proof in civil and criminal
cases
Double jeopardy is also inapplicable
An acquittal of a charge of willful attempt to evade payment of taxes does
not bar assessment and collection of surcharge and penalties.
Sources of Tax laws

It covers national and local taxes
National Taxes it comes from the National Internal Revenue Taxes and Tariff
imposed and collected by the national government through the agencies
Local Taxes it is imposed and collected by the local government
The following are the sources of tax laws:
1. The Constitution the 1987 Philippine Constitution sets the restrictions on the
exercise of the power to tax. It is a limitation upon the lawmaking power of the
states legislature.
Exception: local government taxation in the Philippines is based on the
Constitutional grant of the power to local governments. It gives the power
to create its own source of revenue
2.
Laws The National Internal Revenue Law; Local Tax Law; and Tariff and
Customs Code.
3.
Case Law these are the decisions of the Supreme Court which form part of
the law of the land.
4.
Administrative Issuances/Interpretations administrative agencies may fill in

what the congress may have no opportunity or competence to provide.
However, no provision of any regulation can supplant or modify the acts of
congress. A law cannot be amended by a regulation.
The law must prevail over a regulation
A revenue regulation is binding on the courts as long as the procedure
fixed for its promulgation is followed.
o The following requisites must be complied with:
41
1.
2.
It must be germane to the object and purpose of the law

It does not contradict, but conform to the standards the
law prescribes
3. It must be issued for the sole purpose of carrying into
effect the general provisions of our tax laws.
The power of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue and Secretary of
Finance under Section 244 of the 1997 National Internal Revenue Code
are the following:
o The Secretary of Finance, upon the recommendation of the
Commissioner promulgates rules and regulations for the
effective enforcement of the provisions of the Tax Code.
o It has the power of interpretation of the 1997 NIRC and other tax
laws which is under the exclusive and original jurisdiction of the
Commissioner subject to the review of the Secretary of Finance.
o The Commissioner, subject to the exclusive appellate jurisdiction
of the Court of Tax Appeals, has the power to decide disputed
assessments, refund of internal revenue taxes, fees or other
charges, penalties imposed in relation thereto, or other matters
arising under the NIRC or other laws administered by the Bureau
of Internal Revenue.
Difference between RR, RMO, RMR, RMC, RB and BIR Ruling:

Revenue Regulations (RRs)
are issuances signed by the Secretary of Finance, upon recommendation of the
Commissioner of Internal Revenue, that specify, prescribe or define rules and
regulations for the effective enforcement of the provisions of the National Internal
Revenue Code (NIRC) and related statutes
Revenue Memorandum Orders (RMOs)

are issuances that provide directives or instructions; prescribe guidelines; and outline
processes, operations, activities, workflows, methods and procedures necessary in the
implementation of stated policies, goals, objectives, plans and programs of the Bureau
in all areas of operations, except auditing.
are rulings, opinions and interpretations of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue with
respect to the provisions of the Tax Code and other tax laws, as applied to a specific
set of facts, with or without established precedents, and which the Commissioner may
issue from time to time for the purpose of providing taxpayers guidance on the tax
consequences in specific situations. BIR Rulings, therefore, cannot contravene duly
issued RMRs; otherwise, the Rulings are null and void ab initio
Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMCs)

are issuances that publish pertinent and applicable portions, as well as amplifications,
of laws, rules, regulations and precedents issued by the BIR and other
agencies/offices.
Revenue Bulletins (RB)

refer to periodic issuances, notices and official announcements of the Commissioner of
Internal Revenue that consolidate the Bureau of Internal Revenue's position on certain
specific issues of law or administration in relation to the provisions of the Tax Code,
relevant tax laws and other issuances for the guidance of the public.
BIR Rulings
are official positions of the Bureau to queries raised by taxpayers and other
stakeholders relative to clarification and interpretation of tax laws.
Principles on Interpretation/Construction of Tax Laws

1.
Interpretation is not necessary when the statute is clear and categorical.
2.
The imposition of tax, in case of doubt, is construed strictly against the government
and liberally in favor of the taxpayer.
3.
Tax laws shall not be interpreted to extend their provisions by implication beyond
the clear import of the language used or to enlarge their scope not particularly
specified.
In case of conflict, Special Tax laws shall prevail over General Tax statutes.
Revenue Memorandum Rulings (RMRs)
42
1.
Ubi Lex non distinguit neck now distinguire debemos (When the law does not
distinguish neither should we.)
2.
American jurisprudence has persuasive effect on the interpretation of our own tax
laws.
3.
Contemporaneous construction is given weight. The construction given by a

particular government agency that has acquired specialisation on the subject is entitled
to great respect and should be accorded great weight by the courts.
4.
Estoppel, generally, does not apply to the government. The state cannot be bound by
the errors or mistakes of its agents in the interpretation or execution of tax laws.
5.
Enforcement of tax measures by responsible officers and agencies of government

should be interfered with at the lowest minimum. This is because delays in the
implementation of such tax measures will only retard the operations of government by
impairing the collection of taxes.
6.
Words and phrases used in tax statutes shall be given their plain, ordinary and usual
meaning absent special circumstances indicating an intent to use such words or
phrases in a different light.
7.
Administrative regulations, issued for the proper implementation and in accordance with
tax laws shall have the same force and effect as the law itself. The sheer impossibility
and impracticality of Congress having to fill-in every minute detail in the statute makes it
necessary for administrative agencies to acquire the power to issue subordinate
legislations. To be valid however, the following requisites are imperative:
Must be in harmony with the provisions of the law ( within the

authority conferred by law)
Must be published( Official Gazette or Newspaper of General

Circulation)
Except: When regulation is merely internal or

interpretative in nature ( regulating only the personnel of
the administrative agency and not the public)
Must be reasonable
Note: If Congress subsequently re-enacts a tax law using the meaning given to it by the
administrative agency, the re-enactment effectively confirms that the administrative
interpretation was correct.
Legislative Rules vs. Interpretative Rules
Legislative Rules
Interpretative Rules
Rules promulgated to fill in the details of Rendition of opinion or statement of policy, in

existing law
interpreting existing law
Have the force and effect of law Merely advisory Courts can exercise
Courts must decide in accordance with their power to interpret these rules, i.e.,
these rules, even if they do not agree with these are subject to judicial determination of
the underlying policy
whether correct or not
Are
coupled
noncompliance
with
sanctions
Public hearing and notice required
for No sanctions imposed
No need for public hearing and notice
Rationale: Essentially statutes also, hence, Rationale: Merely provide internal guidelines
hearing and notice requirements apply
for more effective admin implementation
The Power of Oversight

DEFINITION: All activities undertaken by Congress to enhance its understanding of and
influence over the implementation of legislation it has enacted. In other words, these are
necessarily post-enactment activities which raises issues as to their constitutionality (see
below).
43
CATEGORIES:
It has been argued that oversight violates separation of powers because implementation
(i.e., post-legislation) is already within the domain of the executive department.
Scrutiny
Congressional
Investigation
Legislative Supervision
Passive oversight
Active oversight
Active oversight
Reports and information

periodically required from
agencies. Uses facts that
are readily available.
More
thorough Continuing
and
informed
solicitation of information awareness. Implies constant
from
the
agencies legislative guidance, e.g., through
concerned
a legislative committee especially
assigned to an area of admin
activity.
The SC has ruled that oversight is not in itself unconstitutional, and may in fact enhance
separation of powers because it prevents too much authority from lodging in the executive
department. I.e., integral to checks and balances.
But it qualified this holding to scrutiny and investigation only; in particular, (a) scrutiny
over appropriations, budget, confirmation, and (b) investigation in aid of legislation as
provided in Art. VI. Any action or step beyond that will undermine the separation of powers
guaranteed by the Constitution. Legislative vetoes fall in this class.
Legislative Veto
This is a form of legislative supervision exercised through veto provisions included in
enacted laws. Through veto provisions, Congress gives itself authority to approve or
disapprove the implementing rules and regulations promulgated by the executive before
they take effect.
Arguments For
For determining efficiency Exercise of Constitutional Examination of administrative

of
administrative authority
to
conduct exercise of legislative power, plus
implementation
inquiry
in
aid
of curtailment if necessary
legislation (Art. VI Sec.
21)
Inquires
into
past Inquires
into
past Examination of current activity,
administrative activities to administrative activities i.e., exercise of legislative
influence future acts
to influence future acts
authority
Arguments Against
Necessary to maintain balance of powers

Intrudes into powers vested on the
Gives Congress a way to control the executive
Interferes
with
exercise of delegated legislative powers
without having to repeal defective laws or
implementation
enact reparative ones
Once a law becomes
effective, it is deemed to
have left the hands of
Congress
Promotes admin accountability
Intrudes into powers vested on the

judiciary
Allows
Congress
to
determine w/n the rules
conform to law
CONSTITUTIONALITY
44
Too deeply embedded in our law and practice
Permits evasion of the Presidents

own veto power
Ensures that the legislative intent behind an

enactment is carried through to implementation
Problem
often
arises
because
implementing agency did not participate
in the crafting of the law, i.e., usually
ignorant of the policy sought to be
enforced
Permits incorrect enactments from being enforced

at all
Unlike mere scrutiny and investigation,
which can only act after the fact
CHAPTER 6: LOCAL TAXATION

Powers and Limitations
Constitutional grant
Each local government unit shall have the power to create its own sources of revenues and
to levy taxes, fees and charges subject to such guidelines and limitations as the Congress
many provide, consistent with the basic policy of local governments. (Sec. 5, Article 10 of
1987 Constitution)
Rationale: to safeguard viability and self-sufficiency of local governments by directly
granting hem general and broad tax powers. (Fels Energy, Inc. vs. Province of Batangas)
Taxing power of local governments is NOT absolute.

o Limited by constitutional restrictions.
Taxation not is not an inherent power of local governments.
Local tax laws should be construed strictissimi juris
Doubts to be resolved against the local government.
Tax power is deemed to exist.
o Municipal corporations have a general power to levy taxes and create
other sources of revenue. They no longer have to wait for statutory grant.
o Power of legislature is to reduce this power by imposing limitations.
o Congress cannot enact laws depriving LGUs of the power to tax.
Legislature must still see to it that:

o Taxpayer is not over-burdened or saddled with multiple and unreasonable
impositions
o Each local government unit will have its fair share of available resources
o Resources of the national government will not be unduly disturbed
o Local taxation will be fair, uniform, and just.
Doctrine of Necessary Implication
Legislative power to create political corporations for purposes of local selfgovernment carries with it the power to confer on such local government agencies
the power to tax.
Nature of the Taxing Power of LGUs
Not an inherent power; may only be exercised if delegated by law or Constitution
Not absolute; subject to limitations provided by law or Constitution
Legislative; can be exercised by local legislature
Territorial; bound by geographical limits
[NI-NA-LT]
Sources of Revenue (sec. 287, NIRC)
1. Local sources
tax revenues from real property tax and business tax
non tax revenues from fees and charges
receipts from government business operations
proceeds from sale of assets
-
2. External sources
Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA)
Special laws
45
Grants
Aids and borrowings
Fundamental Principles of Local Taxation

a. Taxation shall be uniform
b. Taxes, fees and charges shall be:
Equitable
Based as far as practicable on taxpayers ability to pay
For public purposes
NOT unjust, excessive, oppressive or confiscatory
NOT contrary to law, public policy, national economic policy, or

in restraint of trade
c. Collection not to be left to private person.
d. Revenue to inure solely to the benefit of the LGU levying the tax
e. Each LGU to have a progressive system of taxation.
Common Limitations (15)
LGUs power to tax shall not extend to any of the following (15):
1.
2.
3.
Income tax, except when levied on banks and other financial institutions
Documentary stamp tax
Taxes on estates, inheritance, gifts, legacies, and other acquisitions mortis causa
[AGILE]
4. Customs duties, registrations fees of vessels, and wharfage on wharves, tonnage
dues, all other kinds of customs fees
5. Goods carried into or out of, or passing through territorial jurisdictions of LGUs
6. Agricultural and aquatic products
7. Business enterprises certified to by the Board of Investments as pioneer or nonpioneer for a period of six (6) and four (4) years, respectively from the date of
registration;
8. Excise taxes on articles enumerated under the National Internal Revenue Code,
as amended, and taxes, fees or charges on petroleum products;
9. Percentage or value-added tax (VAT) on sales, barters or exchanges or similar
transactions on goods or services except as otherwise provided in the LGC;
10. Taxes on the gross receipts of transportation contractors and persons engaged in
the transportation of passengers or freight by hire and common carriers by air, land
or water, except as provided in the LGC;
11. Taxes on premiums paid by way of reinsurance or retrocession;
12. Taxes, fees or charges for the registration of motor vehicles and for the issuance
of all kinds of licenses or permits for the driving thereof, except tricycles;
13. Taxes, fees, or other charges on Philippine products actually exported, except as
otherwise provided;
14. Taxes, fees, or charges, on Countryside and Barangay Business Enterprises and
cooperatives duly registered under Republic Act No. 6810 "Magna Carta for
Countryside and Barangay Business Enterprises (Kalakalan 20)" and Republic Act
Numbered Sixty-nine hundred thirty-eight (R.A. No. 6938) "Cooperatives Code of
the Philippines"
15. Taxes, fees or charges of any kind on the National Government, its agencies and
instrumentalities, and local government units.
[VP-PRECIPITANCES]
Income Tax
tax on a person's income, emoluments, profits arising from property, practice of
profession, conduct of trade or business
LGU cannot impose tax on income, except in case of banks and other financial
institutions
gross receipts
from interest, commissions and discounts from lending activities, income from
financial leasing, dividends, rentals on property, profit from exchange or sale of
property, insurance premium
Interest and Dividend Incomes
any tax imposed on interest or dividends received by non-bank and non-financial
institutions assume the nature of income tax
banks and other financial institutions derive such gross receipts in the ordinary
course of their business as financial institutions
for non-bank and non-financial institutions, interest and dividend incomes are
merely passive investment income
nature of ordinary business income
tax imposed thereon the nature of ordinary business tax
Documentary Stamp Tax
tax on documents, instruments, loan agreements and papers evidencing the
acceptance, assignment, sale or transfer of an obligation, right or property incident
thereto
imposed on the privilege of conducting a particular business or transaction and not
on the business or transaction itself
46
the law taxes the document because of the transaction so that the tax becomes
due and payable at the time the transaction is had or accomplished
cannot be imposed by the LGU pursuant to the LGC, presumably to avoid indirect
duplicate taxation
Taxes on Gratuitous Acquisitions

tax on these subjects is covered by the Tax Code and is collected by the national
government
estate tax is a tax on the net value of property left by a deceased on the date of his
death
inheritance tax is a tax calculated on the property received by a person from a
deceased through succession
Section135 of the LGC, provinces and cities may impose a tax on the sale,
donation, barter, or any other mode of transferring ownership or title of real
property
Customs Duties, Vessel Registration Fees, and Wharfage
Custom Duties
customs duties is covered by the Tariff and Customs Code and implemented by the
Bureau of Customs
LGU cannot validly impose a tax based on a cargo manifest or bill of lading
tax partakes of the nature of an import duty, which is beyond the LGU's authority to
impose by express provisions of law
Vessel Registration
Section 149 of the LGC, municipalities may impose license fees for the operation
of fishing vessels of three (3) tons or less
Wharfage
a fee assessed against the cargo of a vessel engaged in foreign or domestic trade
based on quantity, weight, or measure received and/or discharged by vessel
wharfage fee is prohibited only on wharves constructed and maintained by the
national government not on those owned and operated by the LGU
Sections 153 and 155 of the LGC, LGUs, through their Sanggunian
imposition of toll fees or charges for the use of any public roads, pier, or wharf
funded and constructed by them
Goods Carried Into, Out of, or Passing Through
on goods or merchandise
also because it is an impediment or restraint against free flow of trade and

commerce within the territory of the LGU, adjacent and adjoining LGUs and the
country as a whole
No Unjust Enrichment on the Part of the Users

those benefits resulted from the infrastructure that the LGU is mandated by law to
provide
no unjust enrichment where the one receiving the benefit has a legal right or
entitlement
when there is no causal relation between one's enrichment and the other's
impoverishment
Agricultural and Aquatic Products
whether in their original form or not
imposition of the tax will definitely restrict the free flow because the price will have
to increase
Marginal Farmer as Fisherman
individual engaged in subsistence farming or fishing limited to the sale, barter or
exchange of agricultural or marine products produced by himself and his
immediate family, and whose annual net income does not exceed Fifty Thousand
Pesos or the poverty line established by NEDA
BOI-Certified Enterprises
incentives to Registered Enterprises
six (6) years from commercial operation for pioneer firms and four (4) years for
non-pioneer firms, new registered firms shall be fully exempt from income taxes
levied by the National Government
No Retroactivity
only upon the effectivity of LGC which was on January 1, 1992
Excise Taxes and Petroleum Products
LGUs are prohibited from imposing taxes on alcohol products, tobacco products,
petroleum products, miscellaneous products such as fireworks, cinematographic
films, jewelry, perfume, mineral products because they are covered by the Tax
Code
specific tax based on the unit or number, weight or volume capacity or any other
physical unit of measurement of the objects to be taxed
ad valorem tax based on the selling price or other specified value of the goods
47
however, LGU may impose business tax on any business not exceeding two
percent (2%) of gross sales or receipts of the preceding calendar year
Tax on Petroleum Business

Section 133(h) 'taxes, fees or charges on petroleum products' does not qualify the
kind of taxes, fees or charges that could withstand the absolute prohibition
absence of such a qualification leads to the conclusion that all sorts of taxes on
petroleum products, including business taxes, are prohibited by Section 133(h)
The language of Section 133(h) makes plain that the prohibition with respect to
petroleum products extends not only to excise taxes thereon, but all 'taxes, fees
and charges'
While local government units are authorized to burden all such other class of
goods with 'taxes, fees and charges,' excepting excise taxes, a specific prohibition
is imposed barring the levying of any other type of taxes with respect to petroleum
products
Percentage Tax and VAT
Under the Tax Code, in the course of trade as business, sells, barters, exchanges,
leases goods or properties, or renders services, and any person who imports
goods shall be subject to the value-added tax (VAT)
any person whose sales or receipts are exempt and who is not a VAT-registered
person shall be liable to pay a percentage tax of three percent (3%) of his gross
quarterly sales or receipts
a percentage tax is a "tax measured by a certain percentage of the gross selling
price or gross value in money of goods sold, bartered or imported; or of the gross
receipts or earnings derived by any person engaged in the sale of services
Authority to Levy Amusement Tax
provinces are not barred from levying amusement taxes even if amusement taxes
are a form of percentage taxes
"except as otherwise provided"
Section 140 of the LGC expressly allows the imposition of amusement taxes
Transportation Contractors
LGUs may tax transportation contractors and common carriers on a basis other
than gross receipts
exception is the business tax on contractors and other independent contractors,
which is a fixed graduated tax based on gross receipts
Common Carrier
legislative intent is to prevent a duplication of the so-called "common carrier's tax"
common carrier is already paying 3% common carrier's tax on its gross

sales/earning under the Tax
Tax on Premiums
Reinsurance is a contract by which an insurer procures a third person to ensure
him against loss or liability by reason of original insurance
retrocession is the practice of one reinsurance company essentially insuring
another reinsurance company by accepting business that the other company had
agreed to underwrite
tax on insurance premiums is not included in the prohibition
only receipts of insurance premiums may be taxed by the LGU
Motor Vehicle Registration
except tricycles
a motor vehicle is any vehicle propelled by any power other than muscular power
using the public roads excluding road rollers, trolley cars, street-sweepers,
sprinklers, lawn mowers, bulldozers, graders, forklifts, amphibian trucks, and
cranes if not used on public roads, vehicles which run only on rails or tracks,
tractors, trailers, and traction engines of all kinds used exclusively for agricultural
purposes
Power over Tricycles
under Section 458[a][3][VI], the power to regulate their operation and to grant
franchises for the operation thereof
must not have had the effect of withdrawing the express power of LTO to cause the
registration of all motor vehicles and the issuance of licenses for the driving thereof
Registration and Licenses not Included
delegated powers to LGUs pertain to the franchising and regulatory powers
exercised by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board ("LTFRB")
and not registration of motor vehicles and issuance of licenses for the driving
thereof
motor vehicles "used or operated on or upon any public highway"
Export Products
Philippine products actually exported
foreign products are not covered by the limitation
prohibition pertains to the exported products, while business tax, to the business
exporting itself
Countryside and Barangay Business Enterprises and Cooperatives
48
"countryside and barangay business enterprises" means any registered business

entity, association or cooperative whose:
o Number of employees does not exceed twenty (20) at any time for the
purpose of undertaking a productive business enterprise recommended
by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office that will
help develop the economy in its area.
"productive business enterprise" shall not apply to business

enterprises engaged principally in: professional services,
retailing, wholesaling or trading of commodities, products or
merchandise
o Assets, do not exceed Five hundred thousand pesos (Php500,000.00)
before financing;
o Principal office and location located in the countryside
exemption does not extend to service charges or rental for the use of property and
equipment or public utilities owned by LGU
National Government
exemption does not include government-owned or controlled corporations
Power to prescribe penalties for violation of tax ordinance
sanggunian is authorized to prescribe fines subject to the following limitations:
o in no case shall fines be less than Php1,000.00 nor more than
Php5,000.00;
o Nor shall the imprisonment be less than one (1) month nor more than six
(6) months
sangguaniang barangay prescribe a fine of not less than One hundred pesos
(Php100.00) nor more than One thousand pesos (Php1,000.00)
Adjustment of Rates of Tax
subject to the following limitations:
o not oftener than once every five (5) years
o in no case shall such adjustment exceed ten percent (10%) of the rates
fixed under the Local Government Code
EXCEMPTION FROM LOCAL TAXES
Grant of Tax Exemptions
grant tax exemptions, incentives or reliefs
tax exemptions are conferred through, non-transferable tax exemption certificate
does not apply to regulatory fees because they are levied under the police power
of the LGU
Guidelines
grant of tax exemptions or tax reliefs:
o may be granted in cases of natural calamities, civil disturbance, general
failure of crops, or adverse economic conditions
o through an ordinance
o exemption or relief granted to a type or kind of business shall apply to all
business similarly situated
o only during the next calendar year for a period not exceeding 12 months
as may be provided in the ordinance
o shared revenues, the exemption or relief shall only extend to the LGU
granting
grant of tax incentives
o same shall be granted only to new investments in the locality and the
ordinance
o grant shall be for a definite period of not exceeding one (1) calendar year
o grant shall be by ordinance passed prior to the 1st day of January of any
year
o any grant to a type or kind of business shall apply to all business similarly
situated
Withdrawal of Tax Exemption Privileges
Section 193
tax exemptions or incentives granted to, or presently enjoyed by all persons are
hereby withdrawn upon the effectivity of this Code
General Withdrawal
the taxpayer has the heavy burden of proving exemption
The later general law prevails
the rule that a special law must prevail over the provisions of a later general law
does not apply as the legislative purpose to withdraw tax privileges enjoyed under
existing laws or charters is apparent from the express provisions of Sections 137
and 193 of the LGC
The exemption is limited to three entities
local water districts
cooperatives duly registered under Republic Act No. 6938
non-stock and non-profit hospitals and educational institutions
49
Regional or Area Headquarters (RHQs) and Regional Operating Headquarters

(ROHQs)
regional or area headquarters and regional operating headquarters of multinational
companies exempt from all kinds of local taxes, fees or charges imposed by a local
government unit except real property tax
Exemption is Limited to Taxes
are liable to pay building permit and related fees
Congress Prevails over LGU
legal effect of the constitutional grant to local governments simply means that in
interpreting statutory provisions on municipal taxing powers, doubts must be
resolved in favor of municipal corporations
in case Congress enacts a later law granting exemption, same prevails over the
provision withdrawing exemption under the LGC
ENACTMENT OF LOCAL TAX ORDINANCES
Conduct of public hearing is mandatory
public hearings conducted for the purpose
Procedure
within ten (10) days from filing of any proposed tax ordinance published for three
(3) consecutive days in a newspaper of local circulation at least four (4)
conspicuous public places
sanggunian shall cause the sending of written notices of the proposed ordinance,
enclosing a copy to the interested or affected parties operating or doing business
within the territorial jurisdiction of the LGU concerned
specify the date or dates and venue of the public hearing or hearing shall be held
not earlier than ten (10) days from the sending out of notice or the last day of
publication, or date of posting thereof, whichever is later
all affected or interested parties shall be accorded an opportunity to appear and
present or express their views, comments and recommendations until all issues
have been presented fully deliberated upon or consensus is obtained
secretary of the sanggunian prepare the minutes attach to the minutes the position
papers, memoranda, other documents submitted by those who participated
Burden of Proof
lack of a public hearing is a negative allegation essential to the taxpayer's cause of
action
taxpayer is the party asserting has the burden of proof

general rule regularity of the enactment of an officially promulgated statute or
ordinance may not be impeached by parol evidence or oral testimony
presumption in favor of the regularity of official conduct absent a clear showing to
the contrary
Approval of Ordinance
ordinance enacted by the sangguniang panlalawigan, sangguaniang panlungsod,
sangguniang bayan presented to the provincial governor or city or municipal mayor
ordinances enacted by the sangguaniang barangay signed by the punong
barangay
affix his signature on each and every page
veto it and return the same with his objections
sangguanian concerned may override the veto of the local chief executive by twothirds (2/3) vote of all its members, making the ordinance or resolution effective for
all legal intents and purposes
veto shall be communicated by the local chief executive concerned to the
sanggunian within fifteen (15) days in the case of a province, ten (10) days in the
case of a city or a municipality; otherwise, the ordinance shall be deemed
approved as if he had signed it
Publication and Dissemination
published and disseminated
within ten (10) days after their approval, certified true copies of all provincial, city,
municipal tax ordinances or published in full for three (3) consecutive days in a
newspaper of local circulation
at least two (2) conspicuous and publicly accessible places
barangay tax ordinances furnished the respective local treasurers for public
dissemination
if the tax ordinance or revenue measure contains penal provisions, the gist of such
tax ordinance or revenue measure published in a newspaper of general circulation
within the province where the sanggunian concerned belongs
shall be considered as falling at the beginning of the next ensuing quarter the
taxes, fees, or charges, due to accrue therefrom
Purpose of Publication
a condition precedent to the effectivity and enforceability of an ordinance to inform
the public of its contents before rights are affected by the same
50
Review of Ordinance. The Secretary of justice reviews the validity of the tax ordinance or
revenue measure.
On appeal, the constotutionality or legality of tax ordinances or revenue maesures may be
raised within 30 days form the effectivity thereof to the Secretary of justice who shal render
a decision within 60 days from the date of receipt of the appeal.
NOTE: The appeal has no effect of suspending the effectivity of the ordinance and the
accrul of the payment of the tax, fee or charge levied therein.
If the Secretary of Justice did not act on the appeal or after the lapse of 60 days, the
aggrieved party may file an appropriate proceedings with a court of competent jurisdiction.
Power of Supervision. The review power of the Secretary of Justice of tax measures
enacted by the local government unit to determine if the officials performed their function in
accordance with law, the same is an act of mere supervision, not control.
Power of RTC Judge. An RTC judge has the authority to pass upon the validity of a city tax
ordinance even after its validity had been contested by the Secretary of Justice and a
decision rendered thereon by said official.
Applicable case: San Miguel Corporation v. Avelino, GR No. L-39699, March 14, 1979
Facts: A city demanded from a taxpayer the payment a specific tax, but the latter contested
that the ordinance was illegal or void. The taxpayer went to the Secretary of Justice who
rendered the opinion that it is of doubtful validity. However, a suit for collection was filed by
the city where it squarely put in issue the validity of such ordinance, thus contesting the
opinion of the Secretary of Justice. The taxpayer moved to dismiss the case on the ground
of lack of jurisdiction. The Supreme Court held the issue on this manner.
NOTE: These three separate periods are clearly given for compliance as a prerequisite
before seeking redress in a competent court. This is MANDATORY.
Purpose: To prevent delay as well as enhance the orderly and speedy discharge of judicial
functions. Consequently, any delay in implementing tax measures would be to the detriment
of the public. It is for this reason that protests over tax ordinances are required to be done
within certain time frames.
Suspended or Disapproved Ordinance.
A suspended or disapproved tax ordinance or revenue measure cannot be enforced. If
enforced despite due notice of disapproval or suspension, the same is sufficient ground for
administrative discilinary action against the local officials and emloyees responsible thereof.
Reserved/Residual Taxing Power.
The LGUs exercise the power to levy taxes, fees,charges on any base or subject not
otherwise specifically provided in the LGC or taxed under the provisions of the NIRC, as
amended, or other applicable laws PROVIDED THAT:
1. The taxes, fees, or charges shall not be unjust, excessive,
oppressive, confiscatory, or contrary to the declared national policy;
2. A prior public hearing was conducted for that purpose.
NOTE: The exercise of such residual/reserved taxing power mustobserve and conform to
the inherent and constitutional limitations, common limitations, fundamental principles and
the procedures under the LGC.
Principle of the Pre-emption/Exclusionary Doctrine and Concurrent Power
Mandatory Periods
Under the LGC, a dissatisfied taxpayer who questions the validity or legality of a tax
ordinance must file his appeal to the Secretary of Justice within 30 days from effectivity
thereof. In case the Secretary decides the appeal, a period also of 30 days is allowed for
the aggrieved party to go to court. But if the Secretary does not act thereon after the lapse
of 60 days, a party could already proceed to court to seek relief.
A decision is rendered--- 30 days to appeal to the Secretary of Justice.
Another 30 days to go to court after the appeal is decided upon by the Secretary.
In case of inaction of the Secretary or after the lapse of 60 days, the aggrieved party may
go directly to the court to seek relief.
Pre-emption- refers to the instance where the national government elects to tax a particular
area, impliedly withholding from the local government the delegated power to tax the same
field. This doctrine primarily rests upon the intention of the Congress.
The pre-emption will not apply if there is express grant of autority (i.e allow municipal
corporations to cover fields of taxation it already occupies).
Pre-emption applies to the following taxes (hence, may not be levied by the LGU):
Taxes levied under the NIRC; taxes, fees imposed under the TCC; taxes charge under
special laws.
NOTE: Pre-emption does not apply between or among LGUs. They may tax the same
subject as long as it is within their jurisdiction. In this case, there exists concureent taxing
power where the power is shared by both the national and local government. The power
51
may also be exercised simultaneously within the same territory and in relation to the same
subject.
SITUS OF LOCAL TAXATION
General Rule: An LGU has tax jurisdiction over tax subjects within its territory.
EXCEPTION: Issues which the LGU has authority arise (meaning there is a question
whether the LGU has authority to tax or not) when a business enterprise operates in several
jurisdictions as when the principal office, branch, factory, etc. are situated in different LGUs.
(Meaning, business decisions are made in the principal business while the implementation
is carried out through the business units.)
To address this issue, the LGC provides for rules on situs to ensure that each of the LGU
gets a rightful share in the collection.
Definitions:
Principal Office- the head or main office of the bisiness appearing in the pertinent
documents submitted to the SEC or DTI or other appropriate agencies, as the case may be.
MEANING, the city or municipalityspecificially mentioned in the in the AOI of official
registration papers as being the official address of said principal office sahll be considered
the situe thereof.
NOTE: In case of relocation of the the principal office to another city or municipality, it shall
be the duty of the owner, operator or manager of the business to give due noticeof such
transfer to the local chief executive (mayor) of the cities or munics concerned within 15 days
after such transfer is effected.
Branch or Sales Office- a fixed place in a locality which conducts operations of the
business as an extension of the principal office. Example- warehouses which accept
orders and/or issue sales invoises independent of a branch with sales office are considered
as sales offices.
NOTE: Offices used as display areas of the products are not wihtin the purview of branch or
sales office.
Warehouse- a building utilized for the storage of products for sale and from which goods
are withdrawn for delivery to customers or dealers or by persons acting in behalf of the
business.
SALES ALLOCATION. Recording of sales shall be governed by the following rules:
1.
Sales made in a locality where there is a branch or sales office or warehouse shall
be recorded in said branch and the tax shall be payable to the city or munic where
the same is located.
2.
In cases where there is no such branch, the sale shall ne recorded in the principal
office along with the sales made by the principal office and the tax shall accrue to
the city or munic where said principal office is located.
3.
In case where there is a factory project office or plantation in the pursuit of the
business, 30 per cent of all sales recorded in the principal office shall be taxable by
the city or munic where the principal office is located and 70 per cent of all sales
recorded in the principal office shall be taxable in the principal office where the
factory projecto office or plantation is located.
NOTE: LGUs where only experimental farms are located shall not be entitled to the sales
allocation.
A.) In case of a plantation located in a locality other than that where the factory is
locadted, the 70 per cent sales allocation shall be divided as follows:
a.) 60 per cent to the city or munic where the factory is located
b.) 40 per cent to the city or munic where the plantation is located
B.) In case where there are 2 or more factories, plants located in different localities,
the 70 per cent sales allocation shall be prorated among the localities where such
factories or plants are located in proportion to their respective volumes of
production during the period for which the tax is due.
C.) The foregoing sales allocation shall be applied irrespective of whether or not slaes
are made in the locality where the factory or plantation is located.
D.) In case of manufacturersor producers which engage the services of an
independent contractor to manufacture or produce some of their products, these
rules on situs of taxation shall apply except that the factory or plant and warehouse
of the contractor utilized for the production and storae of the manufacturers
products shall be considered as the factory or plant or warehouse of the
manufacturer.
Port of Loading. The city or munic where the port of loading is located shall not levy and
collect the tax impossable on business and occupation UNLESS the exporter maintains in
said city or municipality its prinicpal office.
Situs of Excise Tax. The situs of an excise tax depends upon the place in which the act is
performed or occupation engaged in. it does not depend on the domicile of the person
52
subject to the excise tax nor upon the physical location of the property but depends upon
the place in which the act is performed or occupation engaged in.
Situs of Sale. The place of the consummation of the sale determines the situs. An LGU can
validly tax the sales to customers outside of its territory as long as the orders were booked
and paid for in the companys branch office in the city.
SPECIFIC TAXES THAT MAY BE LEVIED BY LGUs
Taxing Powers of Provinces
The province may levy only the following taxes, fees and charges:
1.
Taxes on transfer of Real Property Ownership at rate not more than 50
per cent of 1 per cent of total consideration;
2.
Franchise tax- at a rate not exceeding 50 per cent of 1 per cent of the
gross receipts for the preceeding calendar year;
3.
Tax on Sand, gravel and other Resources- at a rate not more than 10 per
cent of fair market value;
4.
Tax on business of Printing and Publication- at a rate not exceeding 50
per cent of 1 per cent;
5.
Professional Tax- at a rate not more than 300 pesos annually.
6.
Amusement Tax- at a rate not more than 10 per cent of gross receipts
from admission fees;
7.
Annual fixed tax for every Delivery truck or van of manufacturers in
certain products- at a rate not exceeding 500 pesos annually.
[PD FRAPS]
Taxes on transfer of Real Property Ownership. Taxes on the sale, donation, barter or on
any other mode of transferring ownership or title of real property at rate not more than 50
per cent of 1 per cent of total consideration involed in the acquisition of property or their fair
market value in case the monetary consideration involved in the transfer is not substantial,
whicever is higher.
Exemption. The sale, transfer or any disporition of real property pursuant to RA No. 6657
(The Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law of 1998). Also, socialize housing for the benefit
of the underprivileged and homeless is exempt from transfer tax. Also, the change in
ownership of the corporation will not trigger the tax on transfer of real property. Moreover,
the subsequent registration of title to the land in the name of condominium corporation is not
subject to transfer tax.
NOTE: Transfers without monetary consideration such as donations, braters and succesion
are taxbale. What is being taxed is the exercise of privilege to transfer or convey a property.
The determining factor is whether or not there is indeed a transfer of ownership or title over
the real property.
The acquisition for official use of embassies, consulates or diplomats is exempted from
transfer tax under the generally accepted principles of international laws.
Tax on business of Printing and Publication. Tax on the business of persons engaged in
the printing of and publication of books, cards, posters, leaflets, etc. at a rate not exceeding
50 per cent of 1 per cent of the gross annual receipts for the preceeding calendar year. In
case of a newly started business, it shall not exceed the 1/20 of 1 per cent of the capital
investment.
Exemption: the recepts from the printing of books or other reading materials prescribed by
the DepEd as school texts or references.
Franchise Tax. Tax on the business enjoying franchise at a rate not exceeding 50 per cent
of 1 per cent of the gross receipts for the preceeding calendar year based ont eh incoming
receipt realized within its territorial jurisdiction. In case of a newly started business, it shall
not exceed the 1/20 of 1 per cent of the capital investment. In the succeeding year, the tax
shall be based on the gross receipts for the preceeding claendar year.
Franchise- a right or privilege, affected with public interest which is conferred upon private
persons or corporations, under such terms and conditions as the government may impose
in the interest of public welfare, security and safety.
Franchise tax- tax on the privilege of transacting business in the state and exercising
ccorporate franchise by the State. It is a concurrent power simultaneously exercised by
national and local governments. Aside form national franchise tax, the franchisee is still
liable to pay a local franchise tax, unless it is expressly and unequivocally exemtped from
the payment thereof.
Territorial Limits. Provinces should impose the franchsie tax on businesses whitin its
territorial jurisdiciton, thus excluding the territorial limits of any city located therein.
Tax on Sand, gravel and other Resources. Levy and collect at a rate not more than 10
per cent of fair market value in the locality per cubic mter of ordinary stones, sand, gravel
and other os similar nature as defined in the NIRC extracted from public lands or from the
beds of seas, lakesm streams, creeks and other public waterswithin its territorial jurisdiction.
The proceeds on the tax shall be distributed as follows:
Province- 30 per cent
Component city or municipality where the sand, gravel, etc are extracted 30 per cent
Barangay where the sand, gravel, etc. are extracted- 40 per cent
53
NOTE: The permit to extract shall be issued exclusively by the provincial governor.
The Regalian doctrine does not apply because tax a burdens and are construed strictissimi
juris against the government.
The authority to impose taxes on such nature belongs to the province and not to the
municipalitywhere they are found.
Professional Tax. Annul professiznal tax on each person engaged in the exercise or
practice of a profession requiring government examination at such amount and resaonable
classification as the sangguniang panlalawigan may determine but shall in no case exceed
300 pesos.
Where to pay? It shall be paid to the province where he practices his profession or where he
maintains his principals in case he practices his profession in several places. However, such
person who has paid the corresponding professional tax shall be entitled to practice his
profession in any part of the Philippines without being subject to any other national or local
tax, license, or fee for the practice for such profession.
It is the duty of the employer to require the payment of his employees profesional tax on his
profession beofre employment and annually thereafter. It shall be payable annuall or on or
before the 31st day of January.
NOTE: Professionals exclusively employed in the government shall be exempt from the
payment of this tax.
Those covered professionals are those who only passed the bar examination or any board
or other examinations conducted by the PRC.
Amusement Tax. Provinces may levy tan amusement taxt to be collected from the
proprietors, lesees or operatoers of theathers, cinemas, concert halls, boxing stadiaand
other places of amusements at a rate not more than 10 per cent of gross receipts from
admission fees.
Amusment is a pleasurable diversion and entertainment. It is synonymous to relaxation,
pastime or fun.
EXEMPTION: The holding of operas, concerts, dramas, paintings, flower shows, musical
programs, literay and oratorical presentations except pop rock or similar concerts shall be
expemt from the payment of the tax.
The proceeds from the amusment taxt shall be shared equally by the province and the
municipality where such amusement places are located.
Amusement not covered by amusment tax:
1. Professional basketball games
2. Resorts, swimming pools, bath houses, hot springs and tourist spots
NOTE: LGUs cannot impose amusement tax pursuant to the principle of pre-emption.
Annual fixed tax for every Delivery truck or van of manufacturers in certain products.
Annual fixed tax for every truck, van or any vehicle used by manufactures, producer,
wholesalers, dealers, etc in the delivery or distribution of distilled spirits, fermented liquors,
soft drinks, cigars, etc wihtin the province at a rate not exceeding 500 pesos annually.
Taxing Powers of Municipalities
Municipalities may levy taxes, fees and charges not otherwise levied by the province.
Tax on business. See Section 143 of the LGC.
NOTE: SERVICE is not an article of commerce. The word article refers to such material or
corporeal things as goods or physical property, which is distinguished from service which is
intangible product.
Taxing Powers of Cities
There are three classifications of cities provided in the Local Government Code, namely, (1)
highly urbanized city, which is a city of at least 200,000 inhabitants AND an income of at
least 50 million pesos at 1991 prices; (2) component city, which is a city which that does not
meet the criteria for highly urbanized cities; and (3) independent component city, which is a
component city whose charter prohibits its inhabitants from voting in the provincial elections.
Among local government units, the city has the widest scope of taxing. Section 151 of the
Local Government Code states:
[A] city may levy the taxes, fees, and charges which the province or municipality
may impose The rates of taxes that the city may levy may exceed the maximum
rates allowed for the province or municipality by not more than fifty percent (50%)
except the rates of professional and amusement taxes.
From that provision, a city covers the scope of taxing of either a municipality or a province. It
is also authorized to collect a higher tax rate, i.e. 50% of the maximum rates allowed for the
province or municipality. (Insight) The reason why a city is provided a much wider scope
and a greater power is that cities are generally the centers of commerce, transportation,
religion, education, finance, and culture of a certain province or locality. Being centers of
such activities, cities need more revenues to fund its many activities and projects that are
involved in the mentioned activities.
The provision above is the general scope of taxation for cities. In addition to such general
scope, cities may also levy and collect a percentage tax on any business not provided in the
list of specific businesses a municipality may taxed on, at rates not exceeding three percent
(3%) of the gross sales or receipts of the preceding calendar year. Moreover, cities may
collect a professional tax at a rate of 300.00 Pesos per calendar year per professional, and
an amusement tax on paid admission at a rate not exceeding 10% of the gross receipts
from admission fees. Lastly, highly urbanized cities has a share of 60%, of the proceeds of
54
the tax on sand, gravel, and other quarry resources extracted from within the boundaries of
the city.
The taxes, fees and charges levied and collected by highly urbanized and independent
component cities shall accrue to them. The provinces do not have a share as such cities are
fiscally and politically independent from the province
Under Sections 153-155 of the Local Government Code, any local government unit may
collect the following:
1.
Service Fees and Charges for services rendered.
2.
Toll Fees or Charges for the use of any public road, pier, or wharf,
waterway, bridge, ferry or telecommunication system funded and
constructed by the local government unit concerned.
3.
Public Utility Charges for the operation of public utilities owned,

operated and maintained by them within their jurisdiction.
Taxing Powers of Barangays

As stated, cities have the greatest scope of taxing. As a contrast, barangays have the
narrowest scope of taxing and has the least revenue-raising powers. Its scope of taxation is
listed in Section 152 of the Local Government Code, and it states that barangays may levy
or collect the following:
1.
Taxes on stores or retailers with fixed business establishments with

gross sales of receipts of the preceding calendar year of fifty thousand
pesos (P50,000.00) or less, in the case of cities and Thirty thousand
pesos (P30,000.00) or less, in the case of municipalities, at a rate not
exceeding one percent (1%) on such gross sales or receipts.
2.
Service fees or charges for services the barangay rendered in

connection with the regulations or the use of barangay-owned properties
or service facilities such as palay, copra, or tobacco dryers.
3.
Barangay clearance fees for the issuance of such barangay clearance,

which is a document required for the issuance of any license or permit for
any business.
4.
Other fees and Charges on

(1) Cockfights, cockpits, and commercial breeding of fighting cocks,
(2) Billboards, signboards, neon signs, and outdoor advertisements, and
(3) Recreation places which charge admission fees.
[BROS-CAR]
Common Revenue-Raising Powers of Local Government Units
[SToP]
Toll fees may not be collected from the following classes of people: (1) Members of the PNP
and AFP who are on mission; (2) post office personnel delivering mail; (3) physicallyhandicapped individuals; and (4) disabled individuals who are at least 65 years old. Toll fees
may also not be collected when public safety and welfare so require.
Community Tax
A community tax, or a residence tax (certificate), is a form of identification, which has its
origins from the Spanish period. (Insight) The English term community tax certificate is a
euphemism of the Spanish word cdula (sedula in Tagalog), which has a strongly negative
connotation due to the events that took place during the Philippine Revolution, particularly
when the revolutionaries cried Punitin and sedula!43 at Pugadlawin as a sign of protest and
revolt against the Spaniards who had been taxing the Filipinos heavily for centuries.
Although it has been a traditional form of identification for centuries, for notarial purposes,
however, it is no longer valid.
Individuals who are liable for community tax are inhabitants of legal age who:
1. Is engaged in business or occupation; or
2. Is required by law to file an income tax return; or
3. Owns real property with an aggregate assessed value of 1,000 pesos or
more; or
4. Has been regularly employed on a wage or salary basis for at least 30
consecutive working days.
[BROS]
43 Tear all cedulas!

55
2.
They shall pay an annual community tax of five pesos and an addition tax of one peso for
every one thousand pesos of income, which in no case shall exceed 5,000 pesos.
As for juridical persons, every corporation no matter how created or organized, whether
domestic or resident foreign, engaged in or doing business in the Philippines shall pay an
annual community tax of Five hundred pesos (P500.00) and an annual additional tax, which,
in no case, shall exceed Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) in accordance with the following
schedule:
1. For every Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) worth of real property in the
Philippines owned by it during the preceding year based on the valuation
used for the payment of real property tax under existing laws, found in the
assessment rolls of the city or municipality where the real property is
situated - Two pesos (P2.00); and
2.
For every Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) of gross receipts or earnings

derived by it from its business in the Philippines during the preceding year
- Two pesos (P2.00).
There are only two kinds of persons who are exempt from paying the community tax, and
they are:
1. Diplomatic and consular representatives, for reasons of international
comity; and
2. Transient visitors when their stay in the Philippines does not exceed three
months, which is often the period granted to tourists arriving in the
country. (Insight) As the community tax certificate is a residence
certificate, it is illogical to impose such to transient visitors for the simple
reason that they do not intend to reside here.
Since a community tax certificate is a form of identification, it is required to be presented on
certain occasions when an individual or juridical person transacts with the State, particularly:
1.
When an individual acknowledges any document before a notary public, takes

the oath of office upon election or appointment to any position in the
government service; receives any license, certificate. or permit from any public
authority; pays any tax or free; receives any money from any public fund;
transacts other official business; or receives any salary or wage from any
person or corporation with whom such transaction is made or business done
or from whom any salary or wage is received; and
When, through its authorized officers, any corporation receives any license,
certificate, or permit from any public authority, pays any tax or fee, receives
money from public funds, or transacts other official business.
For voters registration purposes however, the individual is not required to present such
community tax. (Insight) The reason is that the State, and no less other than the
Constitution, recognizes the sanctity of the right of an individual to vote. It is an exercise of
civil rights that enjoys a higher privilege over the States need to have a system of
identifying its citizens. The State has means, other than requirement of presentation of the
community tax certificate, to identify a registrant.
Collection of Local Taxes
Generally, the tax period is the calendar year. The taxes may be paid in quarterly
installments. (Insight) Such manner of payment is for the benefit of the taxpayer. This is
also consistent with the prevailing Filipino culture that favors small payments so as not to
feel the impact of spending a big amount in one transaction to pay his or her taxes.
As for accrual, it is on the first day of January, or New Years Day. Payment should be made
within twenty days from the date of accrual of the tax, that is until January 20, or for
installments, until April 20, for the second quarter; until July 20, for the third; and until
October 20, for the last.
The Sanggunian, however, may extend the time for payment without imposing any
surcharges or penalties, but only for a period not to exceed six months.
If payment is not made within the allotted time, a surcharge not exceeding 25%, and an
interest not exceeding 2%, may be imposed. Interest shall, however, stop from accruing at
the end of the 36th month.
It is the treasurer of the local government unit (i.e. the barangay, municipal, city, or
provincial treasurer) or his duly authorized deputy who shall collect the taxes, fees and other
charges. Such treasurer has the power to examine the books of accounts and pertinent
records of any natural or juridical person for the purpose of ascertaining, assessing and
collecting the correct amount of tax.
Remedies for Collection of Revenues
There are two major remedies for the collection of revenues, and they are (1) the imposition
of a local governments lien and the (2) availing of civil remedies.
A local governments lien, which is superior to all liens, charges or encumbrances in favor of
any person, enforceable by appropriate administrative or judicial action, is imposed to any
56
property or rights therein, which includes property used in business, occupation, practice of
profession or calling, or exercise of privilege, for the payment of local taxes, fees, charges
and other revenues. The lien may only be extinguished upon full payment of the delinquent
local taxes fees and charges including related surcharges and interest.
Civil remedies may either be an administrative action through the distraint of personal,
including incorporeal, property, and the levy upon real property and interest in or rights to
real property, or a judicial action.
For distraint of personal property, the procedure is as follows:
1. Seizure
2. Accounting of distrained goods;
3. Publication;
4. Release upon payment before sale;
5. Sale;
6. Disposition of proceeds
[Sisa And Pepe Rizal Shall Die]44
In seizure, upon failure to pay a tax within the required time, the LGU treasurer or his deputy
shall send a written notice to the delinquent taxpayer. After sending the notice, the treasurer
then shall proceed to seizure proper and before doing so, he shall issue a duly
authenticated certificate based upon the records of his office showing the fact of
delinquency and the amounts of the tax, fee, or charge and penalty due. Such certificate
shall serve as sufficient warrant for the distraint of personal property, subject to the
taxpayer's right to claim exemption under the provisions of existing laws. He may thereafter
seize or confiscate any personal property belonging to that person or any personal property
subject to the lien in sufficient quantity to satisfy the tax, fee, or charge in question.
Distrained personal property shall be sold at public auction in the manner hereon provided
for.
Right after seizing, the officer executing the distraint shall make an accounting and issue a
copy of such to the owner, to the person who had possession of the property seized or to
someone of suitable age and discretion who is found at the residence or place of business
of the person whose property is seized.
A notice of sale shall be posted at three public and conspicuous places and such notice
shall be published.
44 Based on literary, historical, philosophical and biological

truths.
If, however, before the consummation of the said sale, the person whose property has been
seized, pays up his delinquent taxes, charges or fees, the property so seized may be
released.
During the sale, the property shall be awarded to the highest bidder for cash. If the property
remains unsold for a period of 120 days from the day of distraint, the property shall be
considered sold to the LGU for the amount of the assessment made by the Committee on
Appraisals.
Finally, the proceeds shall be disposed by applying it to satisfy the tax, and to the penalties,
interests and surcharges that accrued because of the delinquency. Also it shall be applied to
the expenses of the sale.
If the proceeds are not sufficient, another distraint may be effected.
For levy on real property, it may be done before, simultaneously or after distraint of personal
property. The procedure may be best demonstrated by the following:
Duly Authenticated Certificate
Such certificate shall be issued by the local treasurer for the purpose of
identifying the delinquent taxpayer, his unpaid taxes, and the fees,
charges or penalties.
Writing Upon Certificate a Description of the Property

Levy shall be effected upon writing the description of the property to be
levied and upon notice to interested persons
Notice of levy
1.
2.
3.
Written notice shall be served upon:

The assessor
Registrar of deeds
The delinquent taxpayer
57
Just like distraint, levy may be repeated once or several times as long as the full amount
Advertisement
due has not been extinguished.
Within 30 days after levy, the LGU treasurer shall advertise for at least 30 days the sale or auction
Althoughofeither
the may be exercised several times, the law provides certain exemptions from
property levied.
distraint or levy. (Insight) Such exemptions are provided in order for the delinquent
taxpayers dignity be recognized and that he be afforded his human rights to a decent living,
to health, to exercise his profession, and to survival. Furthermore, it is intended by the law
that the delinquent taxpayer be left with sufficient properties so that he could recover from
his financial woes.
Staying of Sale
Sale
The following are the exempted properties:
At any time before the date of the sale,
The sale shall proceed if the taxpayer fails to stay
the taxpayer may stay the proceedings
the sale through payment
(a)
Provisions, including crops, actually provided for individual or family
by paying the taxes, fees charges,
use sufficient for four (4) months;
penalties and interests.
(b)
Household furniture and utensils necessary for housekeeping and
used for that purpose by the delinquent taxpayer, such as he may
select, of a value not exceeding Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00);
(c)
One fishing boat and net, not exceeding the total value of Ten
thousand pesos (P10,000.00), by the lawful use of which a fisherman
Post-Sale Incidentals
earns his livelihood;
(d)
Any material or article forming part of a house or improvement of any
1. Within 30 days after the sale, a report shall be made and delivered to
real property.
the sanggunian.
(e)
His necessary clothing, and that of all his family;
2. A certificate of sale shall be issued to the purchaser
(f)
The professional libraries of doctors, engineers, lawyers and judges;
3. Any excess of the proceeds shall be turned over to the owner.
(g)
One (1) horse, cow, carabao, or other beast of burden, such as the
delinquent taxpayer may select, and necessarily used by him in his
ordinary occupation;
(h)
Implements and tools necessarily used by the delinquent taxpayer in
his trade or employment;
Redemption
Final Deed to Purchaser
Within one year from the sale,
delinquent taxpayer has the right
redeem the property upon payment of
taxes, etc. plus an interest of 2%
month on the purchase price.
the
to
the
per
If the taxpayer fails to redeem, a final

[PUBIC AngHIT]
deed shall be issued to the purchaser.
For the other major remedy of judicial action, the procedure is (Insight) the same as any
other ordinary civil action akin to a petition for a collection of debt. The real party-in-interest
is the local government unit concerned, through its treasurer. The cause of action, however,
prescribes within five years.
Prescription
The following is a table of the periods of prescription of certain tax collection-related
activities, and the corresponding suspensions of the periods:
58
Tax
Collection
Activity
Period of assessment,
in general
Period
Suspension of the Period
For a court action, the following table demonstrates the procedure:
5 years, from the

due date
Mode
Period of assessment
when fraud is involved
Period to collect
10 years, from
discovery of fraud
5 years, from the
date of assessment
The treasurer is legally prevented from

making the assessment of
collection.
The
taxpayer
requests
for
a
reinvestigation and executes a
waiver
The taxpayer is out of the country
Remedies of the Taxpayer

The taxpayer has two major remedies: (1) administrative and (2) judicial action. For
administrative remedies, the taxpayer has the following remedies:
1. Before assessment, an appeal to the Secretary of Justice;
2. After assessment, a protest of assessment, a claim for refund or tax
credit, and redemption
[JARRed]
The appeal to the Secretary of Justice should involve questions of law, or specifically,
questions on the constitutionality or legality of tax ordinances or revenue measures. Such
appeal shall be made within 30 days from the effectivity of such ordinance or measure. The
Secretary has 60 days to act upon the appeal. If he denies, the taxpayer may file a court
action within 30 days from receipt of notice of such denial. However, after the lapse of 60
days from the filing of appeal before the Secretary, and the latter has not acted upon it, a
party can seek judicial relief even without any prior decision from the Secretary.
A protest of assessment may be filed before the local treasurer within 60 days from the
notice of assessment. The local treasurer shall decide within 60 days and may accept or
reject wholly or partially the protest.
As for claim of refund or tax credit, this is required to be filed before the local treasurer
before a a taxpayer may proceed to judicial relief. If a tax credit is granted, this is not
refundable to cash but may be applied to future tax obligations.
As for redemption, the delinquent taxpayer may redeem real property sold within one year
from the date of sale.
For judicial remedies, the taxpayer has the following options:
1. Court action;
2. Declaratory relief; and
3. Injunction.
Appeal to the Secretary of Justice
Period to file the Administrative

Action
30 days from effectivity of tax
ordinance or measure
Denial of Protest of Assessment
60 days from receipt of the notice of

assessment
Denial of Claim for Tax Refund
Within two years from the date of

payment.
Period to file the Co
30 days if the Secre

appeal;
After the lapse of 60
with the Secretary,
does not act upon th
30 days from the
denial or from the l
day period to appeal
In refund cases, wh
period is about to ex
may proceed to
waiting for the d
treasurer.
For declaratory relief, the same procedure as stated in the 1997 Rules of Court shall apply.
Finally, for injunction, this may be availed by a taxpayer when he wishes to enjoin the
collection of a local tax.The issuance of a writ of injunction is prohibited if the subject matter
is a national internal revenue tax. The requisites of the issuance of a writ of injunction are:
(1) the existence of a clear and unmistakable right that must be protected; and (2) an urgent
and paramount necessity for the writ to prevent serious damage. Although the two requisites
may be present, the judge has the ultimate discretion to issue such writ. It is not a matter of
right especially that writs of injunction against local taxes are frowned upon.
Sources:
The Local Government Code of the Philippines (Republic Act No. 7160)
Efren Vincent Dizon, Taxation Law Compendium, Volume 1 (2013).
CHAPTER 7: REAL PROPERTY TAX
A. Definitions and Taxing Authority
PROPERTY TAX are taxes assessed on all property or on all property of a certain class
located within a certain territory on a specified date in proportion to its value, or in
accordance with some other reasonable method of apportionment. It is ordinary measured
59
by amount of property on a given day and not on total amount owned by him during the
year.
REAL PROPERTY TAX (RPT) is the most important and ideal source or of revenue for local
governments. It is the largest contributor to the total own-source revenues of LGUs, and
remains to be the most reliable income source where local governments can raise an
overwhelming share of their own-source tax revenues.
Basis of Real Property Tax: A Real estate tax is a direct tax on the ownership of lands and
buildings or other improvements thereon, not specially exempted, and is payable regardless
of whether the property is used or not, although the value may vary in accordance with such
factor.
Taxing real property on the basis of ACTUAL USE, even if user is not the owner; ACTUAL
USE refers to purpose for which the property is principally and predominantly utilized by the
person in possession. Same policy was adopted in the Local Government Code.
NATURE OF REAL PROPERTY TAX
1. Usually single or indivisible, although land and building or improvements erected
are assessed separately, except when land and building belong to separate
owners
2. Fixed proportion of assessed value and requires intervention of assessors
3. Collected or payable at appointed times; constitutes as a lien on and is
enforceable against property subject to tax and not by imprisonment
4. Tax in rem against realty
Note: RPT being an ad valorem tax, cannot be treated as local tax
REAL ESTATE includes all land within the district by which the tax is levied and all rights
and interests in such land, and all buildings and other structures affixed to the land, are the
property of the tenant and may be removed by him at the termination of the lease. When
there are separate owners of land, separate assessments of property of each shall be
made.
IMMOVABLE PROPERTY (ART 415)
ART 415: The following are immovable property
1. Lands, buildings, roads and constructions of all kinds adhered to soil
2. Trees, plants and growing fruits, while attached to land or form an integral part of
an immovable
3.
Everything attached to an immovable in a fixed manner, such way it cannot be

separated without breaking the material or deterioration of object
4. Statues, reliefs, paintings or other objects for use or ornamentation placed in
buildings or on lands by the owner of the immovable in such a manner that it
reveals the intention to attach them permanently to the tenements
5. Machinery, receptacles, instruments or implements intended by the owner of the
tenement for an industry or works which may be carried on in a building or on a
piece of land and which tend directly to meet the needs of the said industry or
works
6. Animal houses, pigeon-houses, beehives, fish ponds or breeding places of similar
nature, in case their owner has placed them or preserves them with the intention to
have them permanently attached to the land, and forming a permanent part of it;
the animals in these places are included
7. Fertilizer actually used on a piece of land
8. Mines, quarries and slag dumps, while matter forms part of the bed and waters
either running or stagnant
9. Docks and structures though floating, are intended by their nature and object to
remain at a fixed place on a river, lake or coast
10. Contracts for public works and servitudes and other real rights over immovable
property
MACHINERY should be actually, directly and exclusively used to meet the needs of the
particular industry, business or activity and which by their very nature and purpose are
designed for, or necessary to its manufacturing, mining, logging, commercial, industrial, or
agricultural purposes.
IMPROVEMENT: valuable addition made to a property or an amelioration in its condition,
amounting to more than a mere repair or replacement of parts involving capital expenditures
and labor, which is intended to enhance its value, beauty or utility or to adapt it for new or
further purposes.
It can also be artificial alterations of the physical condition of the ground that are reasonably
permanent in character.
PERMANENCE: permanence intended in its construction and use; expression
permanent as applied to an improvement does not imply that the improvement must be
used perpetually but only until the purpose to which the principal realty is devoted has been
accomplished. It is sufficient that the improvement remain as long as the land to which it is
annexed is still used for that purpose.
60
LGUS WITH POWER TO IMPOSE REAL PROPERTY TAXfollowing may levy an annual
ad valorem on real property not specifically exempted
1. Provinces
2. Cities
3. Municipalities within Metro Manila
B. Fundamental principles, exempt properties and classification of property
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES
1. Real property shall be appraised at its current and fair market value.
2. Real property shall be classified for assessment purposes on the basis of its actual
use.
3. Real property shall be assessed on the basis of a uniform classification within each
LGU.
4. Appraisal and assessment of real property shall be equitable.
EXEMPT PROPERTIES
1. All RP owned by Republic or any of its political subdivisions
a. EXCEPTION: when the beneficial use has been granted to a taxable
person
2. Charitable institutions, churches, parsonages or convents appurtenant to and all
lands, buildings and improvements actually, directly and exclusively used for
religious, charitable or educational purposes
3. All machinery and equipment that are actually, directly and exclusively used by
local water districts and GOCCs engaged in the supply and distribution of water
and/or generation and transmission of electric power.
4. All real property owned by registered cooperatives in RA 6938
5. Machinery and equipment exclusively used for pollution control and environmental
protection
Ownership exemptions
Character exemptions
Usage exemptions
On basis of ownership;
Owned by
1. Republic
2. Province
3. City
4. Municipality
5. Barangay
6. Registered
cooperatives
On basis of their
character
1. Charitable
institutions
2. Houses
and
temples
of
prayer
3. Non-profit or
religious
cemeteries
On basis of actual, direct and

exclusive use to which they are
devoted
1. All lands, buildings and
improvements actually,
directly and exclusively
used
for
religious,
charitable
or
educational purposes
2. All
machinery
and
equipment
that
are
actually, directly and
exclusively used by local
water
districts
and
GOCCs engaged in the
supply and distribution of
water and/or generation
and
transmission
of
electric power
3. Machinery
and
equipment
exclusively
used for pollution control
and
environmental
protection
1. All RP owned by Republic or any of its political subdivisions

EXCEPTION: when the beneficial use has been granted to a taxable person
Note: LGU cannot tax the national government
Liberal construction of exemptionGeneral Rule: Tax exemption is strictly construed
against the taxpayer claiming the exemption.
EXCEPTION: When Congress grants an exemption to a national government
instrumentality from local taxation, such exemption is construed liberally in favor of the
national government instrumentality
EXCEPTION TO EXCEPTION: When legislature clearly intended to tax government
instrumentalities for delivery of essential public services for sound and compelling policy
considerations.
61
There must be express language in the law empowering local governments to tax national
government instrumentalities.
SEC 133 LGC unless otherwise provided
DOCTRINE OF EXEMPTION OF NATIONAL GOVERNMENT FROM LOCAL TAX
emanates from SUPREMACY OF NATIONAL GOVERNMENT
SEC 234 LGC--- government property being used by a taxable person or entity is subject to
tax
Real property, although owned by the Republic, is not devoted to public use or public
service but to private gain of taxable person.
EXCEPTION: when national government are subject to any kind of tax by local
governments.
Exception to the exemption applies only to real estate tax and not to any other tax.
Title of government property
1. In the name of Republic
2. In the name of agencies or instrumentalities
a. Republic may grant beneficial use of its real property to any agency or
instrumentality when real property is transferred to it even as Republic
remains the owner.
Tax liability of beneficial usecorresponding liability for payment devolves on taxable
beneficial user and not the government.
Property over which government has right to useif the government has right to use the
property, the same may be exempted from realty tax
RECLAIMED AREASforeshore and submerged areas belong to the public domain and
are inalienable unless reclaimed, classified as alienable lands upon to disposition and
further declared no longer needed for public service.
Ownership remains with the State unless it is withdrawn by law or presidential proclamation
from public use.
Even if alienable lands of public domain were transferred to Philippine Reclamation
Authority and issued land patents or certificates of title, it did not automatically made such
lands private. Reclaimed lands being leased or sold by PRA are not private lands. Only
when qualified private parties acquire these lands will the lands become private lands.
EMBASSIESART 23 Vienna Convention of Diplomatic Relations: sending state and head
of mission shall be exempt from all national, regional or municipal dues and taxes in respect
of premises of mission, whether owned or leased.
2.
Charitable institutions, churches, parsonages or convents appurtenant to

and all lands, buildings and improvements actually, directly and exclusively
used for religious, charitable or educational purposes
Partial exemption is possible if only a part of the property is used for exempted purpose.
Real properties, although owned by taxable persons, which are actually, directly and
exclusively being used by an exempt entity for religious, charitable or educational purposes,
are exempted from payment of real property tax
3. All machinery and equipment that are actually, directly and exclusively used
by local water districts and GOCCs engaged in the supply and distribution of
water and/or generation and transmission of electric power.
To qualify for exemption, use must be devoted to supply and distribution of water or
generation and transmission of electric power. Machinery must be actually, directly and
exclusively used for such purpose.
Contractual exemptioncontractual assumption of the obligation to pay real property tax is
not sufficient to make one compellable to pay taxes due. It must be supplemented by an
interest that the party assuming the liability has on the property tax.
Thus, where vendee assumed liability for taxes, vendee is liable because he acquired use
and possession of the property, even though title remained with the vendor pending full
payment of the purchase price in a contract of conditional sale.
Liability is prospective and does not cover delinquent taxes. This is because of the principle
that user of the property bears the tax. He cannot assume where he has no possession.
Assumption of tax by an exempt entitytax exempt entity may not validly assume the tax in
a contract with a taxable beneficial user with the intention of indirectly extending the
formers exemption to the latter. Such does not bind the LGU, a 3 rd party not privy to the
agreement and the beneficial user remains to be liable. Realty tax is directly chargeable to
the beneficial user.
4.
All real property owned by registered cooperatives in RA 6938
COOPERATIVE: autonomous and duly registered association of persons, with a common

bond of interest, who have voluntarily joined together to achieve their social, economic and
cultural needs and aspirations by making equitable contributions to the capital required.
62
i.
Purposes of cooperative
1. Encourage thrift and savings mobilization among members
2. Generate funds and extend credit to members for productive and provident
purposes
3. Encourage among members systematic production and marketing
4. Provide goods and services and other requirements to members
5. Develop expertise and skills among its members
6. Acquire lands and provide housing benefits for members
7. Insure against losses of members
8. Promote and advance the economic, social and educational status of members
9. Establish, own, lease or operate cooperative banks, cooperative wholesale and
retail complexes
10. Coordinate and facilitate activities of cooperatives
11. Advocate cause of cooperative movements
12. Ensure viability of cooperatives through utilization of new technologies
13. Encourage and promote self-help
14. Undertake any and all other activities for effective implementation of Cooperative
Code
Tax Treatment of cooperativeduly registered cooperatives which do not transact any
business with non-members or the general public shall not subject to any taxes and fees
imposed under internal revenue laws.
Cooperatives transacting business with both members and nonmembers shall not be
subjected to tax on their transaction with members. Transactions of members with the
cooperative shall not be subject to any taxes and fees, final taxes on members deposits
and documentary tax.
Tax exemptions of cooperatives dealing with nonmembers
1. Cooperatives with accumulated reserves an undivided net savings of not more
than 10M shall be exempt from all national and local taxes.
a. Such cooperatives shall be exempt from customs duties, advance sales
or compensating taxes on their importation of machinery, equipment and
spare parts and which are not available locally
b. All tax free importations shall not be sold nor the beneficial ownership be
transfer to any person until after 5 years, otherwise cooperative and
transferee shall be solidarily liable to pay twice the amount of imposed tax
2.
Cooperatives with accumulated reserves an undivided net savings of not more

than 10M shall pay the following taxes at full rate
a. Income taxamount allocated for interest on capitals
ii.
3.
Same tax is not consequently imposed on interest received by

members
Cooperatives are exempt from income tax from date of
registration with CDA
b.
VATon transactions with nonmembers

i. Exemption under NIRC shall include sales and operated by
members to undertake production and processing of raw
materials or of goods produced by its members into finished or
process products for sale
c.
d.
All other taxes unless otherwise provided

Donations to charitable, research and educational institutions and
reinvestment to socioeconomic projects within the area of operation may
be tax deductible
All cooperatives regardless of amount of accumulated reserves and undivided net

savings shall be exempt from payment of local taxes and taxes on transactions
with banks and insurance companies
a. Sales or services for non-members shall be subject to applicable
percentage taxes by producers, marketing or service cooperatives
b. Nothing in law shall preclude examination of books of accounts
5.
Machinery and equipment exclusively used for pollution control and

environmental protection
RA 7942 (Philippine Mining Act)POLLUTION CONTROL AND INFRASTRUCTURE
DEVICES: infrastructure, machinery, equipment and improvements used for impounding,
treating or neutralizing and cleansing mine industrial waste.
a. Pollution control devises shall not be considered as improvements on
land or building they are attached and not subject to real property tax
i. However, payment of mine wastes and tailing fees is not
exempted
b. Claim of exemption must be supported by evidence that property is
actually, directly and exclusively used for pollution control and
environmental protection
WITHDRAWAL OF EXEMPTIONexemption from payment of real property tax previously
granted or enjoyed by all persons was withdrawn by LGC
63
Taxability of Squatted Property

Express grant of temporary exemptionLGU may, by ordinance, expressly exempt
squatted lands on a temporary basis. Exemption is automatically lifted when owner has full
control of property.
CLASSES OF REAL PROPERTY FOR ASSESSMENT PURPOSES
1. RESIDENTIAL: land principally devoted to habitation
2. AGRICULTURAL: land devoted to planting trees, raising of crops, livestock and
poultry, dairying, salt making, inland fishing
3. COMMERCIAL: land devoted for object of profit
4. INDUSTRIAL: land devoted to industrial activity as capital investment
5. MINERAL: land in which minerals exist in sufficient quantity to justify necessary
expenditures to extract and utilize such
6. TIMBERLAND: land covered with trees suitable for carpentry
7. SPECIAL: all lands, buildings and other improvements actually, directly and
exclusively used for hospitals, cultural or scientific purposes; and those owned and
used by local water districts and GOCCs for public services in supply of water and
generation and transmission of electric power
transactions is considered by
taking into account valid sales
data accumulated from among
various sources stated in LGC
property is no more than the return

derived from it. An analysis of the
income produced is necessary in
order to estimate the sum which
might be invested in the purchase of
the property
appraising man-made
such as buildings and ot
based on such data as
labor costs to reproduce
of the improvement
No rigid rule
C. Rates of Levy, Penalties and Condonation
UNIFORM RATE OF BASIC REAL PROPERTY TAX
1. Province: not exceeding 1% of the assessed value of real property
2. City or municipality within Metro Manila Area: not exceeding 2% of the assessed
value of real property
Local Government Unit authorized to collect real estate tax on properties:
1. Within its territorial jurisdiction; and
2. Unquestionably within its geographical boundaries.
Real property shall be classified based on its actual use

1. Valued
2. Assessed
In case of BOUNDARY DISPUTE between two local governments, while the case is
pending:
1. if the taxpayer already paid real property tax in one unit, no liability to pay in the
other unit
Zoningcity or municipality within Metropolitan Manila Area, through their sanggunian, shall
2. if he has yet to pay, deposit due real property taxes in an escrow account with a
have the power to classify lands in accordance with their zoning ordinances
government bank.
Tax declarations are not conclusive. It only enables the assessor to identify it for
No public hearing shall be required before the enactment of a local tax ordinance levying
assessment levels. It does not bind the provincial/city assessor, for appraisal and
the basic real property tax.
assessment are based on actual use irrespective of any previous assessment or taxpayers
SPECIAL LEVIES ON REAL PROPERTY
valuation which is based on a taxpayers declaration.
1. Additional levy for the Educational Fund
Incidental and reasonably necessary use- classification of property as special is not limited
2. Additional Ad Valorem tax in idle lands
to property actually indispensable but to facilities that are incidental to and reasonable
3. Special levy by local government units, through a tax ordinance describing with
necessary for the accomplishment of its purpose
reasonable accuracy the:
Approaches in determining fair market valueassessor uses any or all in analyzing data
a. Nature
b. Extent
gathered to arrive at the estimate fair market value to be included in the ordinance
c. Location of the public works projects or improvements to be undertaken
containing the schedule of fair market values.
d. State of the estimated cost thereof
e. Specify the metes and bounds by monuments and lines; and
f. The number of annual installments for the payment of the special levy
1. Sales analysis or market data 2. Income capitalization approach
3. Replacement or reproduction cost
which in no case shall be less than 5 nor more than 10 years.
approach
approach
*The Sanggunian concerned shall conduct a public hearing before the enactment
Price paid in actual market Value of an income producing Factual approach used exclusively
of aninordinance imposing a special levy.
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4.
Socialized Housing Tax: additional 0.5% tax in the assessed value of all lands in
urban areas in excess of Php 50, 000.00
PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF TAX ORDINANCES

1. Sanggunian of local government unit:
a. Fine Php 1, 000.00 to Php 5, 000.00; and/or
b. Imprisonment 1 month to 6 months
2. Sangguniang barangay:
a. Fine Php 100.00 to Php1, 000.00
CONDONATION OR REDUCTION OF REAL PROPERTY TAX
By the sanggunian concerned, upon recommendation of the Local Disaster Coordinating
Council in cases of:
1. General failure of crops
2. Substantial decrease in the price of agricultural or agri-based products
3. Calamity
By the President of the Philippines in cases:
4. When public interest so requires
D. Declaration, Assessment, and Appraisal of Real Property
COMPUTATION OF REAL PROPERTY TAX
Steps:
i.
Determine the market value;
ii.
Ascertain the assessment level of property
iii.
Multiply the market value by the applicable assessment level of the property to
determine the assessed value; and
iv.
Find the tax rate which corresponds to the class of the property and multiply the
assessed value by the applicable tax rates.
Formula in computing real property tax:
1. Fair Market Value x Assessment Level = Assessed Value
2. Assessed Value x Tax Rate = Real Property Tax
DECLARATION OF REAL PROPERTY: the sworn declaration of real property shall be filed
with the assessor concerned
1. every 3 years during the period from January 1st to June 30th commencing with
the calendar year 1992; and
2. within 60 days after the acquisition of such property or upon completion or
occupancy of the improvement.
*30 days from filing of declaration property, claim for Tax Exemption for such property, if
any, shall be filed with the provincial, city or municipal assessor
LISTING IN THE ASSESSMENT ROLL: real property shall be listed, valued and assessed
in the name of the owner or administrator, or anyone having interest in the property
APPRAISAL OF REAL PROPERTY: at the current and fair market value prevailing in the
locality where the property is situated
Schedules of Fair Market Value:
1. Published in a newspaper of general circulation in the province, city or municipality;
or in the absence thereof
2. Posted in the provincial capitol, city or municipal hall and in 2 other conspicuous
public places therein
ASSESSMENT: the assessment levels to be applied to the fair market value of real property
to determine its assessed value shall be fixed by ordinances of the sangguniang
panglalawigan, sangguniang panglungsod or sangguniang bayan of a munipality at the
rates not exceeding those provided in Section 218 of the Local Government Code.
*General revision of real property assessments shall be undertaken by the assessor
within 2 years after the effectivity of the Local Government Code and every 3 years
thereafter.
E. Duties of Certain Local Officials, Private Individuals, and Entities
Registrar of Deeds
To ascertain whether or not any real property entered in the Register of

Property has escaped discovery and listing for the purpose of taxation.
To submit to the provincial, city, or municipal (PCM) assessor an abstract of

his registry which includes brief but sufficient description of real properties
entered therein, present owners, and the dates of their most recent transfer or
alienation.
To require every person who shall present for registration a document of

transfer, alienation, or encumbrance (TEA) of real property to accompany the
TEA with a certificate that the real property subject of the TEA has been fully
paid of all real property taxes due thereon.
Failure to provide such certificate: ROD will refuse the registration of the
document.
Officials Issuing Building Permits or Certificates of Registration of Machinery
65
To transmit a copy of such permit or certificate within 30 days of its issuance to

the assessor of the province, city, municipality (PCM) where the property is
situated.
Geodetic Engineers
To furnish free of charge the assessor of the province, city, municipality (PCM)
where the land is located with a white or blue print copy of each of all
approved original or subdivision plans or maps of surveys within 30 days from
receipt of such plans from Lands Management Bureau (LMB), Land
Registration Authority (LRA) or the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board
(HLURB).
Registrar of Deeds and Notaries Public
To furnish the provincial, city, or municipal (PCM) assessors with copies of all
contracts selling, transferring, or otherwise conveying, leasing, or mortgaging
real property received by or acknowledged before them.
Insurance Companies to Furnish Information
To furnish the provincial, city, or municipal (PCM) assessor copies of any

contract or policy insurance on buildings, structures, and improvements
insured by them or other documents necessary for the proper assessment
thereof.
F. Assessment Appeals
Remedy of Dissatisfied Taxpayer Against Assessment
The Dissatisfied Taxpayer may appeal to the Board of Assessment Appeals of
the city or province, within 60 days from the date of receipt of the written
notice of assessment.
How?
By filing a petition under oath in the form prescribed for the purpose.
Together with the copies of the tax declarations and such affidavits or
documents submitted in support of the appeal
Motion for Reconsideration is not allowed
Motion for reconsideration is not allowed by the procedure to be filed by the
property owner to the local assessor.
Notice of appeal is the last action which gives the owner of the property the right
to appeal to the Local Board of Assessment Appeals (LBAA).
Whenever the local assessor sends a notice to the owner or lawful possessor of
the real property, the assessor shall no longer have jurisdiction to entertain any
request or readjustment.
Where should the taxpayer go? The aggrieved party may bring his appeal to
the LBAA as provided by law.
Who is the Proper Party to File a Protest?

A person who is legally burdened with the obligation to pay for the tax imposed
on a property has a legal interest in the property and he has the personality to
protest a tax assessment on the property.
Liability for taxes generally rests on the owner of the real property at the time the
tax accrues.
However, a personal liability for realty taxes may also expressly rest on the entity
with the beneficial use of the real property.
In those cases, the unpaid realty tax attaches to the property but is directly
chargeable against the taxable person who has actual and beneficial use
and possession of the property even though he is not the owner.
Examples:
-Tax on property owned by the government but leased to private persons or
entities.
-When the tax assessment is made in the basis of the actual use of the property.
-
Legal interest should be an interest that is actual, material, direct and

immediate, not simply contingent or expectant.
Lessee may protest

When? if granted full power and authority to represent the lessor in any
proceeding regarding real property assessment.
Composition of the Board Assessment Appeals
The Register of Deeds as Chairman
The Provincial or City Prosecutor as member
The Provincial or City Engineer as member
In case there is no Provincial or City Engineer, the district engineer shall serve as
member of the Board.
What will happen in the absence of Registrar of Deeds, or the provincial or city
prosecutor, or the provincial or city engineer or the district engineer? the persons
66
performing their duties, whether in an acting capacity or as a duly designated officer in

charge, shall automatically become the chairman or member, respectively of said Board, as
the case may be.
Oath or Affirmation of Office
The Chairman and members of the Board of Assessment appeals shall
assume their respective positions without need of further appointment or
special designation immediately upon the effectivity of the LGC.
Board Meetings
The Board of Assessment Appeals of the province or city shall meet once a
month and as often as may be necessary.
No member of the Board shall be entitled to per diems or travelling
expenses for his attendance in Board Meetings.
Exception:
When conducting an ocular inspection regarding a case under appeal.
No Suspension of Collection despite Appeal
Appeal on assessments of real property made under the provisions of LGC

does not suspend the collection of the corresponding realty taxes on the
property involved.
Powers of the Board in the Exercise of its Appellate Jurisdiction
1. Summon witnesses
2. Administer Oaths
3. Conduct Ocular Inspection
4. Take Depositions
5. Issue Subpoena and Subpoena Duces Tecum
Decision and Degree of Evidence Required
The Board after hearing, shall render its decision based on substantial evidence
or such relevant evidence on record as a reasonable mind might accepts as
adequate to support the conclusion.
The Board shall decide the appeal within 120 days from the date of receipt of
such appeal.
Exception to Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies
Exhaustion of administrative remedies does not apply in cases where the
controversy does not involve questions of fact but only of law.
In this case, the jurisdiction is with the trial court.
Estoppel in Questioning Jurisdiction

A party cannot invoke a courts jurisdiction to secure affirmative relief and,
after failing to obtain the requested relief, question that same jurisdiction.
Appeal of Unfavorable Decision
The party who is not satisfied with the decision of the Board may, within 30
days after the receipt of the decision of said Board, may appeal to the Central
Board of Assessment Appeals.
The decision of the Central Board shall be final and executory.
Composition of the Central Board of Assessment Appeals
- Chairman
- 2 Members to be appointed by the President, who shall serve for a term of 7
years without reappointment
Hearing Officers
- shall be appointed by the Central Board of Assessment Appeals pursuant to the
civil service laws, rules, and regulations.
- shall serve for 6 years, without reappointment until their successors have been
appointed and qualified.
Fact-Finding Function
CBAAs authority is not limited to the exercise of its appellate jurisdiction.
Why? Because the Supreme Court, in the exercise of its extraordinary jurisdiction,
may also designate it as a court appointed fact-finding commission to assist the
court in factual decisions raised in certain actions such as prohibition.
G. Collection of Real Property Tax

Date or Accrual of Tax
The real property tax for any year shall accrue on January 1
From that date, it shall constitute a lien on the property.
Such lien shall be superior to any other lien, mortgage, or encumbrance of
any kind.
It will only be extinguished upon the payment of the delinquent tax.
Person Responsible for Collection of Tax
City or Municipal Treasurer

Collection of the real property tax with interest thereon and related
expenses, and the enforcement of the remedies.
Barangay Treasurer
67
May be deputized by the city of municipal treasurer to collect all taxes on

real property located in the barangay provided that the barangay treasurer
is properly bonded.
Collection by Municipalities
Real property tax is a provincial imposition
But the collection of which is delegated to the component municipalities through
their respective Municipal Treasurers who shall issue official receipts for payments
received and recorded in the reports of collections and deposits and in the cash
books.
Conversion of Municipality to City
1. The remittance of the share of the mother Province from the basic real property
taxes is a statutory obligation of the component municipalities which are only deputized
to collect real property tax.
2. A component municipality that has been converted into a city remains obligated to
remit the share of the mother province from any real property tax due before its
conversion, but were paid and collected thereafter.
3. A newly converted city that has not enacted its own real property tax ordinance, but
collects real property tax using the real property tax ordinance of the province is
obligated to remit the share therefrom of the latter.
4. Once the newly converted city enacts its own property tax due and collected
pursuant thereto shall accrue exclusively to the city.
Payment of Real Property Taxes in Installments
The owner of the real property of the person having legal interest therein may pay
the basic real property tax and the additional tax for Special Education Fund due
thereon without interest in four equal instalments.
Pretemission of Holiday
What happens if the last day of the quarterly payment falls on a holiday or
non-working day? the next succeeding business day is considered the last day
of payment of the tax.
Tax Discount for Advanced Prompt Payment
If the basic real property tax and the additional tax accruing to the Special
Education Fund are paid in advance, the sanggunian shall grant a discound not
exceeding 20% of the annual tax due.
Repayment of Excessive Collections
Assessment of basic real property tax or any other tax is found to be illegal
or erroneous
Taxpayer may file a written claim or refund or credit for taxes and interests
within 2 years from the date that the taxpayer is entitled to such reduction
or adjustment.
The provincial or city treasurer shall decide the claim for tax refund or
credit within 60 days from receipt thereof.
Claim for tax is denied the taxpayer may avail of assessment appeals.
Payment under Protest
No protest shall be entertained unless the taxpayer first pays the tax.
There shall be annotated on the tax receipts the words paid under protest.
Protest Not Required in Refund
Protest is not a requirement in order that a taxpayer who paid under a mistaken
belief that it is required by law, may claim for a refund.
Procedure
Should the taxpayer or real property owner question the excessiveness of
reasonableness of the assessment, the taxpayer should first pay the tax due
before his protest can be entertained.
There shall be annotated on the tax receipts the words paid under protest
The local treasurer would not entertain the protest unless the tax due has been
paid.
If the local treasurer denies the protest or fails to act upon it within the 60-day
period, the taxpayer or real property owner may then appeal or directly file a
verified petition with the LBAA within 60 days from denial of the protest or receipt of
the notice of assessment.
H. Delinquency in Payment of Real Property Taxes

Notice of Delinquency
The provincial, city, or municipal treasurer shall immediately cause a notice of
delinquency when the real property tax or other tax becomes delinquent.
The notice must be posted at the main entrance of the provincial capitol, or city or
municipal hall and in a publicly accessible and conspicuous place in each
barangay.
The notice shall also be published once a week for 2 consecutive weeks in a
newspaper of general circulation in the province, city, or municipality.
The notice shall specify:
68
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Date upon which the tax became delinquent

That personal property may be distrained to effect payment
That at the time before the distraint of personal property, payment of the
tax with surcharges, interests and penalties may be made
Unless the tax is paid before expiration of the year for which the tax is
due, the delinquent real property will be sold at public auction, and the
title to the property will be vested in the purchaser, subject to the
delinquent owners right to redemption within 1 year from date of sale
Interests on Unpaid Real Property Tax

Taxpayer shall pay interest at the rate of 2% per month on the unpaid amount of
basic real property tax or any other tax upon the expiration of the periods for
payment, or when due, until the delinquent tax shall have been fully paid.
In no case shall the total interest on the unpaid tax or portion thereof exceed 36
months.
Remedies for the collection of Real Property Tax
LGU concerned may avail of:
1. Administrative action thru: (i) levy on real property, or (ii) judicial action
2. Civil action in any court of competent jurisdiction. The civil action shall be filed
by the local treasurer within the prescribed period.
Basic real property tax and any other tax constitutes a lien on property subject to
tax, superior to all liens, charges or encumbrances in favor of any person, and may
only be extinguished upon payment of the tax and the related interests and
expenses.
I. Levy on Real Property

After the expiration of the time required to pay the basic real property tax or any
other tax, the subject real property may be levied upon through the issuance of a
warrant on or before, or simultaneously with the institution of the civil action for the
collection of the delinquent tax.
Warrant of Levy
Provincial or city treasurer or a treasurer of a municipality within Metro Manila
shall prepare a duly authenticated certificate showing the name of delinquent
owner of the property or person having legal interest therein, description of the
property, amount of tax due, and interest thereon.
It shall operate with the force of legal execution throughout the province, city, or
a municipality within Metro Manila.
Service of Warrant
It shall be mailed to or served upon delinquent owner or person having legal
interest therein
In case the person is out of the country or cannot be located, to the
administrator or occupant of the property.
- Notice is mandatory
An essential and indispensable requirement; non-fulfillment of which

vitiates the sale
Holding of a tax sale despite the absence of requisite service is

tantamount to violation of delinquent taxpayers substantial right to due
process.
No presumption of regularity
Registered Owner Rule
For purposes of real property taxation, the registered owner of the

property is deemed the taxpayer.
Local treasurer cannot rely solely on the tax declaration but must verify
with the Register of Deeds
Annotation
Written notice of the levy with the attached warrant shall be mailed to or served
upon the assessor and the Registrar of Deeds (RD) of the province, city, or
municipality within Metro Manila
Assessor shall annotate the levy on the tax declaration while RD shall annotate
on the title of the property
Report
- Within 10 days after receipt of warrant by owner, levying officer shall submit a
report on the levy to the sanggunian concerned
-
Advertisement and Sale

Within 30 days after service of warrant of levy, local treasurer shall publicly
advertise for sale or auction the property or a usable portion thereof
Advertisement shall be effected by posting a notice at the main entrance of the
provincial, city or municipal building, and in a publicly accessible and conspicuous
place in the barangay where the real property is located, and by publication once
a week for 2 weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the province, city or
municipality
Advertisement shall specify the amount of delinquent tax, interest due thereon
and expenses of sale, date and place of sale, the name of the owner of the real
property or person having legal interest therein, and a description of the property
to be sold.
Stay of Proceedings
69
Owner or person having legal interest may stay the proceedings by paying the
delinquent tax, interest due and expenses of sale at any time before the date
fixed for the sale.
Payment of delinquent tax even at the auction stage is allowed, provided the
entire amount with interest and expenses is paid. The public auction will be
stopped.
The sale shall be held at the main entrance of the provincial, city, or municipal
building, or on the property to be sold, or at any other place as specified in the
notice of the sale.
Local treasurer shall prepare and deliver to the purchaser a certificate of sale.
Proceeds of the sale in excess of the delinquent tax shall be remitted to the owner
or person having real interest therein.
Local treasure may, by ordinance duly approved, advance an amount to defray the
costs of collection.
Redemption of Property Sold

Right to redeem exists within 1 year from the date of sale, upon payment to the
local treasurer of the amount of the delinquent tax including interests and
expenses of sale, plus interest of not more than 2% per month on the purchase
price from date of sale to the date of redemption
o Exception: If a local ordinance provides that the one-year redemption
period should be counted from the date of annotation of the sale of the
property at the proper registry
o In cases involving redemption, the law protects the original owner.
Payment will invalidate the certificate of sale issued to the purchaser; owner or
person with legal interest shall be entitled to a certificate of redemption, issued
by local treasurer or his deputy
From date of sale until expiration of the period of redemption, delinquent owner or
person with legal interest shall be entitled to the income and other fruits of the
subject property.
Local treasurer or his deputy, upon receipt of certificate of sale, shall return to the
purchaser the entire amount paid by him plus interest of not more than 2% per
month.
Final Deed of Purchase
Local treasurer shall execute a deed conveying the property to purchaser in case
owner or person with legal interest fails to redeem the property.
Purchase by LGU
Local treasurer shall purchase the real property in behalf of LGU concerned if
(i) theres no bidder or (ii) the highest bid is for an amount insufficient to pay the
real property tax and the related interest and costs of sale
RD shall transfer the title of the forfeited property to the LGU without necessity
of an order from a competent court
Taxpayer or his representative may redeem the property within 1 year from
date of such forfeiture, by paying the full amount of the real property tax and
the related interest and costs of sale.
If not redeemed, ownership shall be fully vested on the LGU.
Property under Litigation
The court may motu proprio or upon representation of the provincial, city, or
municipal treasurer award ownership, possession, or succession to any party to
the action upon payment to the court of the taxes with interest and other costs.
Resale of Real Estate Taken for Taxes, Fees, or Charges

The sanggunian may by ordinance duly approved and upon notice of not less than
20 days, sell and dispose of real property acquired by the LGU. The proceeds of
the sale shall accrue to the general fund of the LGU.
Action Assailing Validity of Tax Sale
Taxpayer shall deposit the amount for which the real property was sold, with
interest of 2% per month from the date of sale to the time of the institution of the
action before any court will entertain an action assailing the validity of any sale of
real property or rights at public auction.
The amount deposited shall be paid to the purchaser at the auction sale if the deed
is declared invalid. If the action fails, it shall be returned to the depositor.
No court shall declare a sale at public auction invalid by reason of irregularities or
informalities in the proceedings unless the substantive rights of the delinquent
owner or person with legal interest have been impaired.
The deposit is a jurisdictional requirement; non-payment of which warrants the
dismissal of the action.
However, it is only applicable in voidable tax sale.
Exception: When taxpayer is assailing the invalidity of the tax sale. It cannot
be invoked when the sale is void because the property subjected to real
property tax is not situated within the jurisdiction of the taxing authority.
Further Distraint or Levy
Levy may be repeated if necessary until the full amount due, including all
expenses, is collected.
70
J. Prescription
Prescriptive Period for Collection of Basic Real Property Tax
Real property tax and any other tax levied under LGC shall be collected within 5
years from the date they became due.
In case of fraud or intent to evade payment of the tax, within 10 years from
discovery of such fraud or intent to invade payment
Prescriptive periods were provided to enforce the collection of real property tax
within a specific time. Beyond the period, no action for collection shall be instituted.
If local treasurer has been sending notices of delinquency and/or reminder letters
for payment, the tax may be collected even beyond the 5-year period.
Prescription may only be validly invoked by taxpayer if local treasure neglected or
deliberately failed to perform his mandated duties.
Interruption or Suspension of Prescriptive Period
The period to collection shall be interrupted or suspended in the following instances:
i.
Local treasurer is legally prevented from collecting the tax
ii.
Owner of the property or the person having legal interest therein requests for
reinvestigation and executes waiver in writing before the expiration of the
period within which to collect, and
iii.
Owner of the property or the person having legal interest therein is out of the
country or otherwise cannot be located
GENERAL RULE: All articles imported from foreign country into the Philippines are subject
to duty. The same rule applies if the article has been previously exported from the
Philippines
EXCEPTIONS: (EPIS-G)
1. Those expressly exempted under the Tariff and Customs Code
Example: conditionally free importations (Sec. 105)
2. Grant of exemption by the President of the Philippines
3. Those exempted pursuant to special laws
Example: RA 9290
4. Exemption granted to government agencies, instrumentalities, and GOCCs with
contracts and agreements with foreign countries or international organizations
5. Exemption of international organizations or institutions pursuant to agreements,
treaties or special laws
Fees Charged by the Bureau of Customs (WHAT-BS)
Wharfage
due
Harbor fee
Prescriptive Period for Refund or Credit
Taxpayer may file a written claim for refund or credit for taxes and interests with the
provincial or city treasurer within 2 years from the date of entitlement to such
reduction or adjustment.
Arrastre
charge
CHAPTER 8: PHILIPPINE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS
Tonnage
due
A.
POWERS AND LIMITATIONS
Tariff the system of imposing duties or taxes on the importation of foreign merchandise
Customs duties taxes on the importation or exportation of commodities; a tax levied on
imports by the customs authorities of a country to raise state revenue, and/or to protect
domestic industries from competitors abroad
Berthing
charge
Storage
charge
What
Amount assessed against the cargo of the
vessel engaged in foreign trade based on the
quantity, weight, or measure received or
discharged by such vessel
Payment for each entrance into or departure
from a port of entry in the PH
Payment for the handling, receiving, and
custody of the imported or exported article or
baggage of the passengers
Who Pays
Owner, consignee, or
agent of the owner or
consignee of the article
Amount paid based on the net tonnage of the

vessel or weight of the articles discharged or
laden in PH
Amount assessed against a vessel for
mooring or berthing at a pier or wharf at any
port in the PH
Amount assessed on articles for storage in
customs premises, cargo shed and
warehouses of the government
or
Owner, agent, operator

master of a vessel
Owner, consignee,
agent of the owner
baggage
Owner, agent, operator,
master of the vessel
or
or
or
or
Owner, agent, operator, or

master of the vessel
Owner, consignee, or
agent of the owner or
Articles Subject to Duty goods, ware, merchandise and anything that may be made the
subject of importation or exportation
71
1.
2.
3.
Freely-importable articles articles that may be imported without regulation,

prohibition, or prior clearance from the government
Regulated articles articles which may be imported in the PH subject to
clearances or permits from appropriate regulatory government agencies or
departments
Money, checks, and money orders
Prohibited Articles
1. Absolutely prohibited articles
Example:
a. Written or printed articles advocating or inciting treason, rebellion, sedition,
insurrection or subversion against the government of PH
b. Written or printed articles, negatives, or cinematographic film, photograph and
similar articles representing obscene or immoral character
c. Articles, drugs, instruments for producing unlawful abortion
d. Opium pipes and parts thereof
2. Qualifiedly prohibited articles those that may be imported subject to certain
conditions or limitations
a. Dynamite, gunpowder, ammunition and other explosives, firearms and
weapons of war
b. Devices used for gambling (roulette wheels, gambling outfits, loaded dice,
marked cards)
c. Lottery and sweepstakes tickets except those authorized by the PH
government
d. Any article manufactured in whole or in part of gold, silver or other precious
metals or alloys thereof, the stamps, brands or marks of which do not indicate
the actual fineness of quality of said metals or alloys
e. Marijuana, opium poppies, coca leaves, heroin and other narcotics or
synthetic drugs which are declared habit-forming by the president of PH
Conditionally-free Importations articles that are exempt from payment of import duties
upon compliance with prescribed formalities or regulations
Fraudulent practice any article sold, bartered, hired or used for purposes other than that
they were intended without prior payment of duties, taxes or charges due and payable at the
time of entry
Temporary admission/temporary imports those conditionally-free importations that may
be imported without payment of duties upon posting of a bond equivalent to 150% of the
taxes due thereon conditioned on the re-exportation thereof within a specified period
Example:
a. Articles brought for repair to be re-exported upon completion of the repair
b. Articles used exclusively for public entertainment, public display or exhibition
c. Articles brought by foreign film producers directly and exclusively used for making
or recording motion picture films on location in the PH (THINK: Jason Bourne
movie)
d. Personal and household effects and vehicles of foreign consultants and experts
hired by the government
e. Imported material used in manufacturing, packaging, covering, branding and
labeling articles in a bonded manufacturing house
Drawbacks a refund of duties especially on imported products subsequently exported
or used to produce a product for export
Who pays: Bureau of Customs
When paid: 60 days after receipt of properly accomplished claims
B.
Basis of Dutiable Value and Weight
1. Valuation System/Hierarchical Order of Application

-stated sequentially.
-application is done in order.
-when the dutiable value cannot be determined under the particular method, the
next method in the sequence can be used.
Method One: Transaction Value the price actually paid or payable for the goods when
sold for export to the Philippines, adjusted by adding:
a. fees to the extent that they are incurred by the buyer but not included in the
price actually paid or payable for the imported goods;
b. the value of the proceeds of any subsequent resale, disposal or use of the
imported goods;
c. cost of transport;
d. loading/unloading and handling charges; and
e. cost of insurance
Method Two: Transaction Value of Identical Goods transaction value of identical goods
sold for export and exported at or about the same time as the goods being valued.
*Identical goods: same in all respects (physical characteristics, quality, reputation)
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Method Three: Transaction Value of Similar Goods transaction value of similar goods
for export and exported at or about the same time as the goods being valued.
*Similar goods: although not alike in all respects, have like characteristics and like
component materials which enable them to perform the same functions and to be
commercially interchangeable.
Method Four: Deductive Value based on the unit price sold in the Philippines in the
greatest aggregate quantity to persons not related to the persons from whom they buy such
goods.
Method Five: Computed Value - computed value which shall be the sum of:
a. cost or value employed in producing the imported
goods;
b. amount for profit and general expenses reflected in
the sale of goods;
c. freight insurance fees and other transportation
expenses;
d. Any assist, if its value is not included under par. (a);
and
e. cost of containers and packing.
Method Six: Fallback Value using other reasonable means and on the basis of data
available in the Philippines.
*Limitations: No dutiable value shall be determined under this method on the basis
of:
1. selling price in the Philippines of goods produced in the Philippines;
2. system that provides for the acceptance for customs purposes of the
higher of 2 alternative values;
3. price of goods in the domestic market of the country of exportation;
4. cost of production, other than computed values, that have been
determined for identical or similar goods
5. price of goods for export to a country other than the Philippines;
6. minimum customs values; or
7. arbitrary or fictitious values.
*Release of Goods in Case of Delay if it becomes necessary to delay the final
determination of such dutiable value, the importer shall secure the release of the
imported goods by filing sufficient guarantee in an amount equivalent to the

imposable duties and taxes on the imported goods. However, goods prohibited by
law to be imported shall not be released.
*Right of Collector of Customs: When a declaration has been presented and when
the customs administration has reason to doubt the truth or accuracy of such
documents produced, he may ask the importer to provide further explanation that
the declared value was adjusted in accordance with the provisions of Method One.
If, after receiving further information, or in the absence of a response, he
still has reasonable doubt therein, it may be deemed that the customs value of the
imported goods cannot be determined under Method One, without prejudice to an
importers right to appeal.
2. Bases of Dutiable Weight.
a. dutiable by the gross weight weight of the same, together with the weight of
all containers, packages, holders, and packing of any kind at the time of
importation.
b. dutiable by the legal weight - weight of the same, together with the weight of
immediate containers, packages, holders, and packing in which such articles are
usually contained at the time of importation and/or, when imported in retail
packages, at the time of their sale to the public in usual retail quantities.
c. dutiable by the net weight only the actual weight of the articles at the time of
importation.
d. articles affixed to cardboard, wood, paper or similar common material dutiable
together with the weight of such holders.
e. single package contains imported articles dutiable according to different
weights common exterior receptacles shall be prorated.
3. Rate of Exchange value and prices quoted in foreign currency shall be converted into
the currency of the Philippines at the current rate of exchange by the BSP.
4. Effective Date of Rates of Import Duty
*Imported articles existing at the time of entry or withdrawal from a warehouse
in the Philippines for consumption.
*Articles Abandoned/Forfeited/Seized on the date of the public auction
*Dutiable Weight/Quantity/Volume of Articles at the time of their entry into the
warehouse or date of abandonment, forfeiture and/or seizure.
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5. Entry or Withdrawal from Warehouse, for Consumption:
Kinds of Special Duties/Non-Tariff Barriers
*deemed entered in the Phil. for consumption when specified entry form is
properly filed and accepted, together with any related documents required, at the port or
station, by any the customs official designated to receive such and the required fees have
been paid provided that the article has previously arrived within the limits of the port of entry.
2.1. Anti Dumping Duty - It refers to a special duty imposed on the importation of a
product, commodity or article of commerce into the Philippines at less than its normal value
when destined for domestic consumption in the exporting country. (Formula: Anti-Dumping
Duty =Normal Value Export Price)
*deemed withdrawn from a warehouse in the Phil. For consumption when

the specified form is properly filed and accepted at the time of withdrawal by the customs
official designated to receive the withdrawal entry and any fees required to be paid at the
time of withdrawal have been deposited.
Elements of Dumping:
a. Like Product
b. Price Difference
c. Injury
d. Causal Link
C.
REGULAR AND SPECIAL DUTIES
1. Regular Duties/Tariff Barriers Taxes that are imposed or assessed upon merchandise
from, or exported to a foreign country for the purpose of raising revenue. It may also limit
the amount of goods, which can be imported into a country.
Purpose of Tariff Barriers: Designed to protect the domestic manufacturers or producers
from foreign competition.
Kinds of Regular Duties/Tariff Barriers
Four ways to assessed Custom Duties:
1.1 Ad valorem Duty Assessed as percentage of the import value of goods(e.g., 30% of
Free on Board price).
1.2 Specific Duty - Assessed on the basis of some units of measurement such as quantity
(e.g., Php500.00 per dozen) or weight, either net, legal or gross weight.
1.3 Alternating Duty Alternates ad valorem and specific duties.
1.4 Compound Duty Assessed as a combination of the specific duty and ad valorem
duty (e.g., Php 200.00 per kilogram net, plus 30% of FOB price).
2. Special Duties/Non-tariff Barriers Imposed and collected in addition to the ordinary
custom duties on specific kinds of imported articles under certain conditions usually for the
protection of consumers and manufacturers as well as Philippine products from undue
competition posed y foreign-made products.
Effects of Dumped Products:

a. Price Depression
b. Price Suppression
c. Price Undercutting
Procedure:
a. Filing of Anti Dumping Protest
b. Filing a Bond
c. Prima Facie Determination
d. Preliminary Determination
e. Final Determination
f. Issuance of Department Order
g. Judicial Review
Dumped Import Product - Refers to any product commodity or article of commerce
introduced into the Philippines at an export price less than its normal value in the ordinary
course of trade which is causing material injury to the domestic industry.
Note: Dumping occurs when foreign producers sell their products to an importer in the
domestic market at prices lower than in their own national market. It is a form of price
discrimination between two national markets.
2.2. Countervailing Duty It is levied, in addition to the regular duty and other charges by
an importing country on its imports which have been found to be subsidized in the country of
74
origin or exportation. It is equal to the ascertained amount of subsidy calculated in terms of

subsidy per unit of the subsidized export product.
Elements:
a. Product Compatibility
b. Subsidy
c. Injury
d. Causal Link
e.
Procedure:
h. Filing a Petition
i.
Prima Facie Determination
j.
Preliminary Determination
k. Final Determination
l.
Issuance of Department Order
m. Judicial Review
Subsidy Any specific Assistance directly or indirectly provided by the government of the
country of export or origin in respect of the product imported into the Philippines.
a.
b.
c.
Yellow Subsidies or Actionable subsidies Neither non-actionable nor

prohibited subsidies
Green Subsidies or Non- Actionable Subsidies Permitted as they are of a
general nature
Red Subsidies or Prohibited Subsidies Include export subsidies that are
contingent on export performance and on the use of domestic over imported
goods.
Note:
Industries are deemed to have received subsidy as a result of : ( i) Direct or potential
transfer of government fund (ii) The government foregoing the revenue that should have
otherwise been collected ( iii) The government providing goods or services or purchasing
goods
Subsidy in order to be countervailable must be ( i) Specific (ii) An industry sector or
group of industries (iii) A designated geographic region within the jurisdiction of the granting
authority
2.3. Marking Duty It is imposed on every article of foreign origin imported into the
Philippines which is not marked in any official language of the Philippines in a conspicuous
place as legibly, indelibly and permanently as the nature of the article or its container will
permit (in such a manner as to indicate to an ultimate purchaser in the Philippines) the
name of the country of origin of the article.
Note:
The failure or refusal of the owner or importer to mark the articles within a period of thirty
days after due notice shall constitute as an act of abandonment of said articles.
2.4 Discriminatory Duty It is imposed on articles wholly or in part the growth or product
of or imported in a vessel of any foreign country whenever such country:
(i.)
Imposes directly or indirectly upon the disposition or transportation in transit

through or re-exportation from such country of any article wholly or in part the
growth.
(ii.)
Discriminates in fact against the commerce of the Philippines, directly or

indirectly, by law or administrative regulation or practice, by or in respect to
any customs, tonnage, or port duty, fee, charge, exaction, classification,
regulation, condition, restriction, or prohibition in such manner as to place the
commerce of the Philippines at a disadvantage compared with the commerce
of any foreign country.
Note:
If such foreign country increased its said discrimination against the commerce of the
Philippines, the president if he deems it consistent with the interest of the Philippines, issue
further proclamation that the said product and articles of the foreign country imported in its
vessel, shall be excluded from importation into the Philippines.
2.5. Safeguard Measure Duties - It is imposed to protect domestic industries and
producers from increased imports which cause or threaten to cause serious injury to those
domestic industries and producers.
Note:
The Secretary shall apply a general safeguard measure upon a positive final determination
of the Commission that a product is being imported into the country in increased quantities
as to be a substantial cause of injury or threat to the domestic industry.
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c)
Report shall be submitted to NEDA within 30 days after termination of the

public hearing
Except: in the imposition of additional duty not exceeding 10% ad valorem
General Safeguard Measure administered by:

a.
b.
c.
d.
Department of Trade and Industry/ Bureau of Import Services

Department of Agriculture
Tariff Commission
DTI or DA Secretary
Note:
The DA Secretary shall issue a DO requesting the DF Secretary to impose additional
special safeguard duty on agricultural product if: (i) Its cumulative import volume in a given
year exceeds its trigger volume and (ii) Its actual import price is less than its trigger price,
both subject to conditions of RA 8800.
D.
FLEXIBLE TARIFF CLAUSE
Basis: The Congress, may, by law authorize the President to fix within the specified limits,
and subject to such limitations and restrictions as it may impose, tariff rates, import and
export quotas, tonnage and wharfage dues, and other duties or imposts, within the
framework of the national development program of the government. (Section 28(2) of Article
VI of the 1987 Constitution)
*May be exercised even for revenue purposes only
Tariff Powers of the President:
1) Increase, reduce, or remove existing protective rates of import duties including the
necessary changes in the classification
Condition: increase in the rate cannot exceed 100% ad valorem
2) Establish import quota or ban import of any commodity whenever necessary
3) Impose additional duty on ALL imports, not exceeding 10% ad valorem whenever
necessary
4) Cause a gradual reduction of protection levels upon periodic investigations by the
Tariff Commission and recommendation of NEDA
Requisites for the Exercise of Power
1) In the interest of national economy, general welfare and/or national security
2) Recommendation of NEDA to the President
a) Tariff Commission must conduct an investigation
b) Public hearing shall be held
Power to modify the form of duty: the corresponding ad valorem or specific equivalents of
the duty with respect to imports from the principal competing foreign country for the most
recent representative period shall be used as bases
Powers of the President Regarding Foreign Trade
For the purpose of:
1) Expanding foreign markets for Philippine products as a means of assistance in
the economic development of the country
2) Overcoming domestic unemployment
3) Increasing the purchasing power of the Philippine peso
4) Establishing and maintaining better relations between Philippines and other
countries
The President is authorized to:
1) Enter into trade agreements with foreign governments or instrumentalities
thereof
2) Modify import duties and other import restrictions
E.
DUTY FREE SHOPPING, BALIKBAYAN BOXES AND IMPORTED VEHICLES
Duty Free Shopping

Duty Free Stores: retail establishments licensed by the government to sell duty and
tax-free merchandise for the convenience of travelers
Duty and tax-free flow of goods
allowed in Economic Zones provided such are consumed therein
subject to applicable duties and taxes when brought out of the
ecozones
Special Economic Zones: selected areas of the country with highly
developed infrastructure or which have potential to be developed into
agri-industrial tourist/recreational, commercial, banking, investment,
financial centers
All passengers arriving from abroad are entitled and can avail of the privilege upon
presentation of:
1) Valid passport
76
2) Flight ticket and

3) Boarding pass
Subject to the following limitations:
1) As to amount
Balikbayans
18 years old and above
Minors
Tax Exempt Purchase: US$ 1,500
US$ 250
Kabuhayan
Shopping
Privilege
(livelihood tools): US$ 2,000
All other passengers (Tourists and
Filipinos traveling to or returning from
abroad)
2)
US$ 1,000
As to Quantity
Cigarettes 2 reams
Tobacco 2 tins
Liquor and/or wine 2 bottles
Non-consumable items (value exceeds US$ 200) 1 only
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
Purchase shall only be made in US$ or other acceptable foreign currencies

Purchases shall be made within
48 hrs from date of arrival for regular passengers
15 days from date of arrival of balikbayan; extended to 30 days

during Christmas season (Nov 15 to Jan 15)
1 year from date of arrival of senior citizen/handicapped

balikbayan
Non-transferrable
Balikbayan privilege can only be availed once a year; if balikbayan arrives
again within the year considered a regular passenger for shopping purposes
Minors: consumable items only; cannot purchase liquors, wines, cigarettes,
electronics, home appliances
Tourist can purchase electronic and home appliance but subject to payment
of duties and taxes Balikbayan boxes
packages of personal effects; pasalubongs sent by Filipinos

working or residing abroad to their families or relatives in the
Philippines
only non-commercial goods/not in commercial quantity strictly for

personal use only
US$ 250
value must not exceed US$ 500

consignor/sender is allowed to send 1 box during a 6-month
period
opened by Philippine Customs
100% examination is required by law to:
Protect
the
legitimate
interests
of
consignors/senders and their consignees and the
transacting public
Protect the interest of the government
Prevent and suppress smuggling and other fraud

upon customs
Importation of a brand new motor vehicle no longer require prior authority

Criteria to be satisfied:
a) of current or advance year model
b) never been registered or used
c) covered by certificate of first ownership
d) of the year of the immediate preceding year in the country of origin
and/or manufacturer provided:
i)
mileage not more than 50 km
ii)
acquired by the importer from the dealer as first owner
Importation of used vehicles continue to be regulated, require prior authority from
BIS, DTI
Individuals may be allowed to bring in used vehicles:
a) returning Filipino/former Filipino citizen (stayed abroad for more than
a year)
b) immigrant to the Philippines (at least a holder of a 13G Visa duly
issued by BID)
Provided:
i)
only 1 unit per family;
ii)
registered in his name for at least 6 months prior to
shipment; and
iii)
proof can be presented that it was acquired out of the
earnings abroad
Requirements and applicable duties
1. personal presence of the car-owner
2. vehicle must be left-hand drive
77
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
F.
subject to 40% Customs duty, 10% VAT and Ad Valorem Tax from
15% to 100% (depending on its piston displacement)
its book value serves as the tax base (not the purchase price nor the
acquisition cost)
spare parts are taxed separately
older model: depreciation schedule is 10% per year counted
downwards from current year (which has 0% depreciation rate)
with piston displacement of 2000 cc: max depreciation of 50%;
below 2000 cc: max of 70%
d.
B.
BUREAU OF CUSTOMS
a. Chief Officials
i. Chief
ii. Assistant Chief
b. Powers:
i. Assessment and collection of lawful revenues from import
ii. Prevention and suppression of smuggling
iii. Supervision and control over entrance and clearance of vessels
and aircraft
iv. General supervision of vessels carrying passengers or freight
v. Prohibition of unnecessary noise
vi. Exclusion of 150 ton vessels from Pasig River
vii. Registration and inspection of vessels
viii. Enforcement of quarantine regulations and of tariff and custom
laws
ix. Licensing of marine/pilots
x. Supervision and control over handling of foreign mail
c. Territorial Jurisdiction
i. Over all seas within Philippine jurisdiction
ii. Exclusive control in respective ports of entry
d. Hot Pursuit
i. May continue beyond maritime zone
e. Collection Districts
i. Collector of Customs at each port of entry
f. Visitorial Power
i. In any place where foreign articles are openly offered for sale
ii. Kept in storage
g. Search Warrant is needed in case of dwelling house
C.
IMPORTATION IN GENERAL
a. Kinds
i. Freely Importable
ii. Regulated
iii. Prohibited
iv. Conditionally free
b. Importation begins upon entry into jurisdiction and terminated upon
payment of duty
EXPORT DUTIES
E.O. No. 26, July 1, 1986 abolished the export duties on all export products
except: logs as imposed under Section 154 of the TCC
export duty imposed on logs: 20% of the gross FOB value at the time of shipment
based on the prevailing rate of exchange
only planted trees are subject to the export duty, since all naturally grown trees are
banned from being exported
CHAPTER 9: ADMINISTRATION OF TARRIFF AND CUSTOMS
A.
TARIFF COMMISSION
a. Chief Officials
i. Chairman
ii. 2 Member Commissioners to be appointed by the President
b. Investigative Functions
i. Administration and effects of tariff and custom laws
ii. Relation between duty rates between raw materials and finished
products
iii. Effects of Ad Valorem and Specific Duties
iv. Questions related to schedules and classification
v. Tariff relations
vi. Importations vs. domestic production
vii. Effects of competition with foreign industries
viii. Investigative Operations
ix. Nature and composition of articles
c. Duties of the Commission
i. Ascertain conversion and production costs in principal centers
and in foreign countries
ii. Select representative articles
iii. Ascertain import costs and selling prices
iv. Ascertain other facts which affect competition

v. Ascertain effects of tariff modifications and import restrictions
vi. Annual reports
Commission has access and compulsory process to any document,
summons, testimony, oaths, subpoenas
78
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
D.
E.
F.
Owner of Imported Articles

i. Person to whom the same are consigned
ii. Holder of bill of lading
iii. Consignee
Importer is personally liable
Government imports also subject to tax
Liability limited to the value
Transit cargo is an exemption to importation
JURISDICTION OVER IMPORTATION

a. Collector shall cause all articles to be entered into a customhouse,
appraised, classified, assess, collect, hold until payment of duties
b. Collector shall exercise this jurisdiction
c. Commissioner liable for lost shipment
ENTRY AT CUSTOMHOUSE
a. Persons authorized
i. Importer or holder of bill of lading
ii. Duly licensed customs broker
iii. Agent or attorney-in-fact
b. Import entry is a declaration to the BOC showing the particulars of the
imported article
c. Informal entry if article is commercial in nature or personal/household
effects
d. Formal entry if for immediate consumption or if there is a domestic letter
of credit
e. Declaration of import entry
i. Full account of the value
ii. Invoice and bill of lading are genuine and true
EXAMINATION
a. Conditions for examination
i. If surveyor seal is tampered
ii. Container is damaged
iii. If shipment is covered by alert orders
iv. If the manifest differs from the actual number, weight, measure
b. Appraisers shall ascertain, estimate, determine the value and describe all
the articles
c. Readjustment of Appraisal, Classification, Return upon request in the
form of a timely protest
G. DELIVERY OF ARTICLES
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Collector not liable for any defect in the bill of lading

No delivery if no bill of lading
Cash deposit required for immediate delivery of packages
An importer of record may authorize delivery to another
Collector shall withhold delivery until the satisfaction of the lien
Customs expenses constitute a lien on the articles
No delivery until fines, surcharges are paid
H.
LIQUIDATION OF DUTIES
a. Shall be made on the face of the entry
b. Tentative liquidation if an action is required to determine the exact amount
c. Finality is 3 year from the date of payment of final duties
I.
ABATEMENTS AND REFUNDS

a. No abatement for damage incurred during voyage
b. Abatement for missing articles allowed upon proof and certification by the
importer
c. Abatement for deficiency in package contents also allowed
d. Abatement of duty on dead or injured animals allowed
e. Investigation is required
f. Claim for refund must be made in writing and forwarded to the collector
J.
ABANDONMENT
a. Kinds
i. Express
ii. Implied
b. Ipso facto deemed property of the government
K.
RECORDS
a. All importers required to keep records for a period of 3 years from the
date of importation
b. Compliance audit
i. Full and free access
ii. BOC has contempt powers
c. Scope
i. Firms selected by computer-aided risk management system
ii. Errors in import declaration detected
iii. Voluntary request to be audited
d. Record to be kept by Customs
i. Articles of Incorporation
ii. Company Structure
iii. Key importations
iv. Privileges
v. Penalties
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L.
SEARCH, SEIZURE, ARREST

a. No obstruction of customs premises
b. Customs service shall exercise surveillance for protection of revenue and
prevention of smuggling
c. To be exercised within the limits of the collection district, particular vessel
d. Customs official or any authorized officer may exercise the power of
seizure and arrest
e. General warrant allowed if specific description is unavailable
f. Warrantless search not allowed in dwelling house
g. Right to search vessels, aircraft, persons, articles, vehicles, beasts,
persons
M. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS
a. Collector shall issue a warrant for the detention of the property
b. Seizure to be reported to the commissioner and auditor and the
corresponding notice to owner/importer
c. Legality of seizure can only be contested by those whose rights have
been impaired
d. Settlement involves the payment of fine or the appraised value
e. Redemption prohibited for prohibited articles
f. Scope shall be limited to subject matter
g. Reliquidation if protest is proper
h. 15 days review by the commissioner
i.
Automatic review if adverse to the government
j.
Confirmation of decision
k. Notice of decision
l.
Reliquidation
m. Government has the right to compulsory acquisition to protect revenues
against undervaluation
O. SURCHARGES, FINES AND FORFEITURES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
N. JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS
1.
2.
3.
4.
Actions instituted under the authority of the Tariff and Customs Code shall be
brought in the name of the Philippine government and conducted by customs.
Approval of the Commissioner is required in an action for recovery of duties.
Aggrieved party may appeal to the CTA. If no appeal, ruling of the Commissioner is
final and conclusive.
BOC has exclusive jurisdiction over imported goods for enforcement of custom
laws. Seizure and forfeiture is for the Collector and then the Commissioner.
Exclusive original jurisdiction of the Collector pertains only to goods seized
pursuant to the authority under the Tariff and Customs Code.
Violations subject to surcharges, fines and forfeitures

Properties subject to forfeiture
a. Unmanifested cargo which is unloaded is subject to forfeiture
b. Possession of smuggled articles is sufficient to authorize conviction
c. Illegally withdrawn articles may be validly seized
Prima facie presumption shall exist:
a. If the conveyance has been used for smuggling at least twice before
b. If the owner is not in the business for which the conveyance is generally
used
c. If the owner is not financially in a position to own such conveyance
d. Common carriers if the owner has knowledge of its use in smuggling
Forfeiture shall be effected only when and while the article is in the custody or
within the jurisdiction of the customs authorities
Administrative fines and forfeitures shall be enforced by the seizure of the vehicle,
vessel, aircraft
Vessel or aircraft may be seized for delinquency of owner
Burden of proof shall lie upon the claimant
Commissioner may authorize seizure of other articles if no evidence of payment of
duties is shown
False or fraudulent practice to make an entry of article shall be punished
a. Undervaluation reduce duty, escape filing of formal entry, circumvent
quota restrictions
i. False invoice description
ii. False country of origin
b. Overvaluation
i. Avoid imposition of anti-dumping duties
ii. Reduce internal revenue tax base
c. Forfeiture in case of fraud requisites:
i. Wrongful making of any declaration or invoice
ii. Such declaration or invoice is false
P. DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY IN CUSTOMS CUSTODY

1.
Property under customs custody shall be subject to sale:

a. Abandoned articles
b. Articles entered under warehousing entry not withdrawn nor duties or
taxes paid
c. Seized property after liability to sale shall have been established
d. Any article subject to a valid lien for customs duties
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2.
Property shall be sold or disposed of upon the order of the Collector of the port
where the property in question is found.
3. Property shall be sold at public auction after 10 days notice. No customs official or
employee shall be allowed to bid.
4. The following charges shall be paid from the proceeds of the sale in the order
named:
a. Expenses of appraisal, advertisement and sale
b. Duties except in the case of abandoned and forfeited articles
c. Taxes and other charges
d. Government storage charges
e. Arrastre and private storage charges
f. Freight, lighterage or general average, on the voyage of importation
5. Any surplus remaining after the satisfaction of all unlawful charges shall be
retained by the Collector for 10 days subject to the call of the owner.
6.
Perishable articles may be sold at auction, after public notice, not exceeding 3
days.
7.
Disposition of articles unfit for use or sale or injurious to public health shall be
ordered by the Collector in such a manner as the case may require.
8. Disposition of contraband:
a. Ammunition and weapons to the AFP
b. Highly dangerous shall be destroyed
c. Contraband coin and bullion to BSP
d. Other contraband of commercial value and capable of legitimate use may
be sold under such restrictions
9.
Disposition of articles for want of bidders shall be used by BOC to promote
collection of taxes or channeled to official use of other offices.
10. Dangerous explosives shall be subject to disposition in the discretion of the
Commissioner.
11. Disposition of Smuggled Articles:
a. Written or printed articles inciting treason or rebellion
b. Written or printed articles or other representation of an obscene or
immoral character
c. Articles, instruments, drugs for unlawful abortion
d. Apparatus or devices used in gambling
e. Opium pipes
Q. OFFENSES
1.
2.
Failure to report fraud is punishable.

Statutory offenses of officials and employees:
a. Extortion or willful oppression
b.
3.
4.
Those who knowingly demand other or greater sums than are authorized
by law
c. Those who willfully neglect to give receipts
d. Those who willfully make opportunity for any person to defraud the
customs revenue
e. Those who permit the violation of the law
f. Those who make or sign any false entry in any book
g. Those who fail to report any fraud
h. Those who without authority attempt to collect payment
i.
Those who disclose confidential information without authority
Offenses punishable under the Tariff and Customs Code:
a. Concealment or destruction of evidence of fraud
b. Breaking of seal on car
c. Alteration of marks on any package of warehoused articles
d. Fraudulent opening or entering of warehouse
e. Fraudulent removal or concealment of warehoused articles
f. Violation of custom laws and regulations in general
Liability for unlawful importation
a. Duty to declare
b. Administrative penalty is separate and distinct of criminal liability for
smuggling
c. A Penal provision:
i. Fraudulently imports
ii. Assists in so doing
iii. Transportation, concealment, sale
d. Kinds of smuggling
1. Outright secretly contrary to law without paying duties
imposed
2. Technical fraudulent or erroneous declaration to avoid
duties
ii. Contraband refers to articles of prohibited importations and
exportations.
iii. Elements
1. Fraudulently or knowingly imported contrary to law
2. The respondent if not the importer himself must have in
any manner facilitated the transportation, concealment
or sale of the merchandise
3. Knowledge or possession
4. Knowledge that the goods have been imported contrary
to law
iv. Mere possession is enough to convict and payment of tax due
after apprehension is not a defense
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R. SUMMARY OF CARGO CLEARANCE AND REMEDIES

1.
2.
3.
Cargo clearance/Classification procedure

a. Importer shall accomplish IED and pay
advance duty to AAB
b. IEIRD to be submitted to BOC along with other
forms
c. Computation of duties and taxes
d. BOC conducts review of submitted documents
e. Importer given 10 days to justify accuracy of
declared value
f. VCRC will calendar the classification issue for
deliberation
g. Elevation to CVCRC
h. Resolution
i.
Endorsement and implementation
j.
Subject to only one MR
Remedies of the BOC
a. Tax lien
b. Administrative fines and forfeitures
c.
Reduction of customs duties/compromise
d. Search, Seizure, and Arrest
i.
Collector of customs has exclusive
jurisdiction over seizure and forfeiture
ii. In case of grave abuse of discretion,
an appeal lies to the Commissioner
then the CTA
iii. Not criminal in nature
1.
Proof beyond reasonable
doubt not required
iv.
Warrant is sine qua non condition
before any forfeiture proceeding
e. Judicial remedies
Remedies of the taxpayer
a. Protest
i. Writing
ii. Point out the particular decision or
ruling
iii. State the grounds
iv. Limited to the subject matter
v. Filed within 15 days after payment
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
vi. Furnish samples of goods

Refund
i. Missing packages
ii. Deficiencies in contents
iii. Lost articles
iv. Dead or injured animals
v. Manifest clerical errors
vi. Drawback
Settlement of any seizure by payment of fine
or redemption
i. Instance of fraud
1. Use of spurious documents
2. Prima facie evidence of
fraud
3. False
machinations,
concealment of facts
4. Similar cases
Appeal to the Commissioner within 15 days
Abandonment
Appeal to the CTA within 30 days
i. BOC liable to pay the value if
shipment can no longer be delivered
without interest
CHAPTER 10: THE COURT OF TAX APPEALS

A. NATURE, COMPOSITION, AND POWERS
1.
HIGHLY SPECIALIZED BODY

The CTA is a highly specialized body speicifically created for the purpose of reviewing
tax cases. The SC will not set aside the conclusion of the CTA which is dedicated
exclusively to the study and consideration of tax problems and has developed an
expertise on the subject unless there has been abuse or improvident exercise of
authority.
1.1.
ACCORDED RESPECT
Its conclusions will not be overturned unless there has been an abuse or improvident
exercise of authority. Such findings can only be disturbed on appeal if substantial
82
evidence or a showing of gross error or abuse on the part of the Tax Court does not
support them.
2.
LAW CREATING THE CTA AND ITS AMENDMENTS
3.
Originally created by R.A. 1125 (June 16, 1954)

Amended by R.A. 9282 (March 30, 2004)
Pursuant to the amendment:
o The CTA was elevated to the same level as the CA
o Consequently, appeals from its decision (en banc) shall be made before the SC
o Jurisdiction of the CTA was expanded to include:
EXCLUSIVE ORIGINAL JURISDICTION:
Over tax collection where the amount is less than PhP 1,000,000.00
all criminal offense under the NIRC, and Tariff Customs Code, BIR, and
BOC where the amount of taxes and fines is PhP 1,000,000.00
EXCLUSIVE APPELLATE JURISDICTION:
In criminal offense over appeals from the RTC
Over tax collection where the amount is less than PhP 1,000,000.00
APPELLATE JURISDICTION over the RTC decisions on local taxes
COMPOSITPOIN AND APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS
To receive evidence
To summon witnesses by subpoena
To require production of papers or documents by subpoena duces tecum
To punish contempt
To promulgate rules and regulations for the conduct of its business
To assess damages against appellant if appeal to it is found to be frivolous or
dilatory
To suspend the collection of the tax pending appeal
To render decisions on cases brought before it
To issue order authorizing distraint of personal property and/or levy of real property
4.1. NATURE OF PROCEEDINGS

They are judicial in nature but it is not bound by the technical rules of evidence. They are
governed by the Revised Rules of the CTA. The Rules of Court apply by analogy or in a
suppletory character and whenever practicable and convenient and shall be liberally
construed in order to promote their objective of securing a just, speedy and inexpensive
disposition of every action and proceeding.
B. JURISDICTION OF THE CTA DIVISION
Presiding Justice
Eight (8) Associate Justices appointed by the President
It may sit en banc or in three (3) Divisions, each Division of three (3) Justices each,
including the Presiding Justice, who shall be the Chairperson of the First Division
and the two (2) most Senior Associate Justices shall be served as Chairpersons of
the Second and Third Divisions.
3.1. QUORUM
The presence of five (5) members is necessary to constitute a quorum and the
same number of affirmative vote to render a valid decision.
In a division session, presence of two (2) members is necessary to constitute

a quorum and the same number of votes to render a valid decision.
4.
POWERS OF, AND PROCEEDINGS IN, THE CTA
To administer oaths
83
Decisions by the Commissioner of the BIR involving:
o
o
o
o
Disputed assessments
Refunds of Internal Revenue Taxes, fees or other charges
Penalties in relation to the abovementioned
Other matters arising under the National Internal Revenue or
other laws administered by the BIR
Inaction by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue in cases invlolving:
o
o
o
o
Refunds of Internal Revenue Taxes, fees or other charges

Penalties in relation to the abovementioned
Other matters arising under the NIRC or other laws
administered by the BIR where the NIRC provides a specific
period of action in which case the inaction shall be deemed a
denial
EXCLUSIVE
APPELLATE
JURISDICTION
Decisions or resolutions of the RTC in local tax cases originally

decided or resolved by them in the exercise of their original or
appellate jurisdiction
Decisions of the Commissioner of Customs in cases involving:
o
o
o
o
CRIMINAL CASES:
Disputed assessments
EXCLUSIVE
ORIGINAL
JURISDICTION
OVER
CRIMINAL
OFFENSES
Liability for custom duties, fees or other money charges
forfeitures,
other
penalties
in
relation
to
the
abovementioned
Other matters arising under the customs law or other laws
NIRC
Tariff and Customs Code
Other laws administered by the BIR or the BOC
Offenses or felonies where the principal amount of taxes

and fees, exclusive of charges and penalties, claimed is
less than PhP 1,000,000.00 shall be tried by the regular
courts and that the jurisdiction of the CTA shall be appellate
TAX COLLECTION CASES:
Tax collection cases involving final and executor

assessments for taxes, fees, charges and penalties
Collection cases where the principal amount of taxes and

fees, exclusive of charges and penalties, is less than PhP
1,000,000.00 shall be tried by the MTC and the RTC
Detention or release of property attached

Fines,
Criminal offenses from violation of the:
a.
b.
c.
administered by the BOC
Decisions of the Central Board of Assessment Appeals in the exercise

of its appellate jurisdiction over cases involving:
o Assessment and Taxation of real property originally decided
C. JURISDICTION OF CTA En Banc
by the provincial or city board of assessment appeals
The CTA En Banc has exclusive appellate jurisdiction over the following cases:
Decisions of the Secretary of Finance on cases elevated to him for

automatic review from decisions of the Commissioner of Customs
which are adverse to the Government under the tariff and customs
code
1.
Decisions, resolutions or orders of the RTC in the exercise of its appellate jurisdiction
over local tax cases and tax collection cases
Decisions of the DTI Secretary in the case of non-agricultural product,
2.
Decisions of the Central Board of Assessment Appeals in the exercise of its appellate
jurisdiction over cases involving the assessment and taxation of real property
3.
Decisions of CTA Divisions
commodity, or aritcles
Decisions of the Secretary of Agriculture in the case of agricultural
product, commodity, or aritcles involving dumping and counter ailing
duties under the Tariff and Customs Code.
D. MODE OF APPEAL TO THE CTA
TAX COLLECTION CASES:
1.
Appeals from the judgments, resolutions or orders of the RTC in tax
collection cases
Petitions for review of the judgments, resolutions or orders of the RTC

in the exercise of their appellate jurisdiction over tax collection cases
originally decided by the RTCs.
HOW APPEAL IS MADE
84
2.
By filing a petition for review provided under Rule 42 of the Rules of CivPro with
the CTA within 30 days from receipt of the decision or ruling or in the case of
inaction, from the expiration of the period fixed by law to act thereon.
With respect to decisions or rulings od the Central Board of Assessment Appeals
and the RTC in the exercise of its appellate jurisdiction, it shall be made by filing
a petition for review provided under rule 42 of the Rules of CivPro with the CTA
which shall hear the case en banc.
All other cases involving rulings, orders or decisions filed with the CTA shall be
raffled to its Divisions.
One adversely affected by such decision of a Division of the CTA may file
a motion for reconsideration before the same Division within 15 days from
notice thereof.
One adversely affected by such decision of a Division of the CTA on a motion for
reconsideration or new trial, may file a petition for review with the CTA en banc.
In criminal cases, the general applicable in regular Courts on matters of
prosecution and appeal shall likewise apply.
One adversely affected by a decision or ruling of a CTA en banc may file with the
SC a verified petition for review on certiorari pursuant to Rule 45 of the Rules of
CivPro.
PERIOD TO APPEAL
In case of assessment by the BIR, the taxpayer shall appeal within 30 days from
receipt of decision or ruling or upon the lapse of 180 days.
o The 30-day period runs from the date the taxpayer receives the appealable
decision and that failure to lodge his appeal:
i. Bars his appeal and renders the questioned decision final and executor
ii. The assessment is considered correct and all that is necessary is for the
Commissioner to enforce the collection of the tax by summary remedies
or judicial action
iii. The taxpayer may only raise defenses of absence of jurisdiction, collusion
between the parties, or fraud
The 30-day period, it is not extendible.
A motion for reconsideration does not toll the 30-day period to appeal to the
CTA.
The Tax Code does not require that the Collector of Internal Revenue to rule
first on a taxpayers request for reconsideration before he can go to the
court for the purpose of collecting the tax assessed.
3.
NEW ISSUES CANNOT BE RAISED FOR THE FIRST TIME ON APPEAL
4.
The Commissioner of Internal Revenue must state that his decision is final
for the 30-day period to appeal to run.
It is a well-settled underlying principle of prior exhaustion of administrative

remedies, on the judicial level, that issues not raised in the lower court cannot be
raised for the first time on appeal. However, the exception is that the issue of
prescription may be raised for the first time since this is a statutory right. An
exception to the exception would be that errors committed by administrative
officials may be raised even for the first time on appeal because the State can
never be in estoppel, however, the Government must follow the same rules of
procedure which bind the private parties.
WHO MAY APPEAL
Any taxpayer adversely affected by a decision or ruling or inaction of:

a. The Commission of Internal Revenue
b. The Commissioner of Custom
c. The Secretary of Finance
d. The Secretary of Trade and Industry
e. The Secretary of Agriculture
f. The Central Board of Assessment Appeal
g. The RTC may appeal to the CTA
Stockholders may file an appeal in cases of dissolved corporations because they
could be held liable for the unpaid deficiency assessments of the dissolved
corporation in proportion to their distributive shares.
It is incumbent of the taxpayer to prove there what is the correct and just liability
by a full and fair disclosure of all pertinent data in his possession in appealing the
Collectors assessment that he claims to be erroneous.
Tax assessments by tax examiners are presumed correct and made in good faith
and it is up to the taxpayer to prove otherwise or else, it will not be disturbed.
5.
THE CTA HAS NO JURISDICTION ON A FINAL AND EXECUTORY ASSESSMENT
Self explanatory
6.
THE NON-SUSPENSION RULE
An appeal does not automatically suspend the collection of taxes.
85
7.
8.
THE NO INJUNCTION RULE
The NIRC provides that no court has the authority to grant a writ of injunction to
restrain the collection of any internal revenue tax, fee, or charge imposed by the
code.
If in its opinion the collection of taxes may jeopardize the interest of the
government and/or the taxpayer, the CTA may enjoin the same provided that a
deposit is made in the amount of the disputed assessment or a surety bond is
placed for not more than double the amount at issue.
DISPOSITION OF CASES
9.
A motion to suspend collection of taxes may be filed together with a petition for
review or with the answer, or in a separate motion filed by the interested party at
any stage of the proceedings
The CTA shall decide the cases filed before it within 30 days after the same has
been submitted for decision.
Non-compliance with the period does not affect the validity of the decision.
The decision must be in writing stating the facts and the law on which they are
based and signed by the judges who concurred.
Decisions shall be published in the Official Gazette.
RECOURSE OF THE PARTY ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY THE DECISION
IF IT IS AN ORDER OR DECISION OF A DIVISION OF THE CTA: He may file a

motion for reconsideration or new trial before the same Division within 15 days
from notice.
IF IT IS A RESOLUTION OF A DIVISION OF THE CTA ON A MOTION FOR
RECONSIDERATION OR NEW TRIAL: He may file a petition for review with the
CTa en banc.
IF IT IS A DECISION OR A RULING OF THE CTA En Banc: He may file with the
SC a verified petition for review on certiorari pursuant to Rule 45 on the Rule on
CivPro.
10. GROUNDS FOR NEW TRIAL

i. FAME = Fraud, Accident, Mistake, Excusable negligence
ii. Newly discovered evidence, which he could not, with reasonable diligence, have
discovered and produced at the trial and which, if presented, would probably alter the
result.
If the motion for new trial is anchored on this, it must be established that:
a. The evidence was discovered after the trial
b. Such evidence could not have been discovered and produced at the trial with
reasonable diligence
c. It is material, not merely cumulative, corroborative or impeaching
d. It is of such weight that it will probably change the judgment
11. SECOND MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A
RESOLUTION OR ORDER FOR NEW TRIAL IS PROHIBITED
Self explanatory (kahit book nagsabi)
DECISION,
FINAL
12. WHEN APPEAL IS WITHDRAWN, THE ASSAILED DECISION BECOMES FINAL AND
EXECUTORY
Whenever one withdraws an appeal, he is deemed to accept the decision of the

CTA. So, for example, the CTA had already denied a request for the issuance of,
lets say, a tax credit certificate for insuffiency of evidence, it may no longer be
included in the taxpayers future claims. Kumbaga, barred na siya by gawing
dahilan yon to raise his contention in sa susunod na kabanata ng kaniyang life.
A taxpayer cannot be allowed to circumvent the denial of its request for a tax credit
by abandoning its appeal and filing a new claim.
An appellant who withdraws his appeal must face the consequences of his
withdrawal, such as the decision of the court a quo becoming final and executory.
NIRC SECTIONS 1 TO 21 AND NIRC REMEDIES

TITLE I
ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION OF THE BUREAU OF INTERNAL REVENUE
POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BIR:
1. Assessment and collection of all national internal revenue taxes, fees, and
charges.
2. Enforcement of all forfeitures, penalties, and fines connected therewith, including
the execution of judgments in all cases decided in its favour by the Court of Tax
Appeals and the ordinary courts.
86
3.
Shall give effect to and administer the supervisory and police powers conferred
to it by this Code or other laws.
COMPOSITION OF THE BIR:

Chief Commissioner and four assistant chiefs to be known as Deputy
Commissioners.
POWERS OF THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER:
1. The exclusive original jurisdiction to interpret the provisions of the NIRC and other
tax laws subject to review by the Secretary of Finance.
2. To decide disputed assessments, refunds of internal revenue taxes, fees or other
charges, penalties imposed in relation thereto, or other matters arising under the
NIRC or other laws or portions thereof administered by the Bureau of Internal
Revenue subject to the exclusive appellate jurisdiction of the Court of Tax Appeals.
3. To obtain information and to summon, examine and take testimony of persons.
4. To make assessments and prescribe additional requirements for Tax administration
and Enforcement.
5. To delegate powers vested in him to any subordinate officials with a rank
equivalent to a division chief or higher subject to the provisions of the code and the
rules promulgated by the Secretary of Finance.
6. Shall employ, assign, or reassign internal revenue officers involved in excise tax
functions, as often as the exigencies of the revenue service may require, to
establishments or places where articles subject to excise tax are produced or kept:
Provided, That an internal revenue officer assigned to any such establishment
shall in no case stay in his assignment for more than two (2) years, subject to rules
and regulations to be prescribed by the Secretary of Finance, upon
recommendation of the Commissioner.
7. Assign or reassign internal revenue officers and employees of the Bureau of
Internal Revenue, without change in their official rank and salary, to other or
special duties connected with the enforcement or administration of the revenue
laws as the exigencies of the service may require: Provided, That internal revenue
officers assigned to perform assessment or collection function shall not remain in
the same assignment for more than three (3) years; Provided, further, That
assignment of internal revenue officers and employees of the Bureau to special
duties shall not exceed one (1) year.
POWERS OF THE COMMISIONER THAT CANNOT BE DELEGATED:
1. The power to recommend the promulgation of rules and regulations by the
Secretary of Finance;
2. The power to issue rulings of first impression or to reverse, revoke or modify
any existing ruling of the Bureau;
3.
4.
The power to compromise or abate, under Sec. 204 (A) and (B) of this Code,
any tax liability; and
The power to assign or reassign internal revenue officers to establishments
where articles subject to excise tax are produced or kept.
DUTIES OF THE COMMISIONER:

1. To prescribe, provide, and distribute to the proper officials the requisite licenses
internal revenue stamps, labels all other forms, certificates, bonds, records,
invoices, books, receipts, instruments, appliances and apparatus used in
administering the laws falling within the jurisdiction of the Bureau.
2. To acknowledge the payment of tax if payment was made, expressing the amount
paid and the particular account for which such payment was made in a form and
manner prescribed therefor by the Commissioner.
3. Furnish its appropriate Committee pertinent information including but not limited to:
industry audits, collection performance data, status reports in criminal actions
initiated against persons and taxpayer's returns.
4. Submit to the Oversight Committee referred to in Section 290 hereof, through the
Chairmen of the Committee on Ways and Means of the Senate and House of
Representatives, a report on the exercise of his powers pursuant to the said
section, every six (6) months of each calendar year.
JURISDICTION OF THE REVENUE REGIONAL DIRECTOR:
1. Implement laws, policies, plans, programs, rules and regulations of the department
or agencies in the regional area;
2. Administer and enforce internal revenue laws, and rules and regulations, including
the assessment and collection of all internal revenue taxes, charges and fees.
3. Issue Letters of authority for the examination of taxpayers within the region;
4. Provide economical, efficient and effective service to the people in the area;
5. Coordinate with regional offices or other departments, bureaus and agencies in the
area;
6. Coordinate with local government units in the area;
7. Exercise control and supervision over the officers and employees within the region;
and
8. Perform such other functions as may be provided by law and as may be delegated
by the Commissioner.
Duties of Revenue District Officers and Other Internal Revenue Officers:
1. To ensure that all laws, and rules and regulations affecting national internal
revenue are faithfully executed and complied with, and to aid in the prevention,
detection and punishment of frauds of delinquencies in connection therewith.
87
2.
To examine the efficiency of all officers and employees of the Bureau of Internal
Revenue under his supervision, and to report in writing to the Commissioner,
through the Regional Director, any neglect of duty, incompetency, delinquency, or
malfeasance in office of any internal revenue officer of which he may obtain
knowledge, with a statement of all the facts and any evidence sustaining each
case.
Agents of the Commissioner:

1. The Commissioner of Customs and his subordinates with respect to the
collection of national internal revenue taxes on imported goods;
2. The head of the appropriate government office and his subordinates with
respect to the collection of energy tax; and
3. Banks duly accredited by the Commissioner with respect to receipt of
payments internal revenue taxes authorized to be made thru bank.
AUTHORITY OF REVENUE OFFICERS:
1. Examine taxpayers within the jurisdiction of the district pursuant to a letter of
authority issued by the Revenue Regional Director in order to collect the correct
amount of tax, or to recommend the assessment of any deficiency tax due in the
same manner that the said acts could have been performed by the Revenue
Regional Director himself.
2. To administer oaths and to take testimony in any official matter or investigation
conducted by them regarding matters within the jurisdiction of the Bureau.
3. To make arrests and seizures for the violation of any penal law, rule or regulation
administered by the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
SOURCES OF REVENUE:
1. Income tax;
2. Estate and donor's taxes;
3. Value-added tax;
4. Other percentage taxes;
5. Excise taxes;
6. Documentary stamp taxes; and
7. Such other taxes as are or hereafter may be imposed and collected by the Bureau
of Internal Revenue.
NIRC REMEDIES
OUTLINE OF REMEDIES
REMEDIES OF THE GOVERNMENT
Basic Remedies:
1. Assessment
2. Collection
OTHER CLASSIFICATIONS
I.
As to procedure
A. Assessment and Collection
B. Collection without assessment
II.
As to the nature of proceeding
A. Administrative Remedies
1. Exercise of power to make assessments
2. Remedies in collection stage
a. Tax lien
b. Distraint of personal property or garnishment of bank deposits
c. Levy of real property
d. Compromise and abatement (Discussed under Remedies of the
Taxpayer)
e. Penalties and fines (Discussed under Tax Administration and
Enforcement)
f. Non-availability of injunction to restrain collection of taxes
3. Other remedies
a. Forfeiture
B.
b. Suspension of business operations

Administration and Enforcement)
Judicial Remedies
1. Civil
2. Criminal
(Discussed
under
Tax
REMEDIES OF THE TAXPAYER

I.
Before payment
A. Administrative Remedies
1. Protest
2. Compromise
3. Abatement
II.
After payment
A. Administrative Remedy
1. Tax refund
2. Tax credit
B. Judicial Remedies
REMEDIES OF THE GOVERNMENT
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Assessment
It is an official action of an administrative officer in:
1. Determining the computation of the sum due.
2. Giving notice to that effect to the taxpayer.
3. Making, simultaneously with or sometimes after the giving of notice, of demand
upon him for the payment of the tax deficiency stated within a specified period
(CIR v. PASCOR Realty Development Corp., G.R. No. 128315, June 29, 1999).
* A notice of assessment without a due date cannot be considered as a demand but
mere requests for payment (First Gas Power Corp. v. CIR, CTA Case No. 7281,
September 24, 2012).
Reason for Assessment: There is a tax due to the government which has not been paid by
the taxpayer either as a delinquency or a deficiency tax. If the tax was properly paid,
assessment is not necessary.
General Rule: Taxes are self-assessing and thus do not require the issuance of an
assessment notice in order to establish the tax liability of the taxpayer.
Exceptions
Instances where taxes require assessment to establish additional tax liability:
1. Tax period of a taxpayer is terminated ( TAX CODE, Sec. 6[D])
2. Deficiency tax liability arising from a tax audit by the BIR (TAX CODE, Sec. 56 [B])
3. Tax lien (TAX CODE, Sec. 219)
4. Dissolving corporation (TAX CODE, Sec. 52[C])
Principle Governing Tax Assessments
1. General Rule: All presumptions are in the favour of tax assessments. When an
assessment is made, the same is presumed correct and made in good faith. The
taxpayer has the duty to prove otherwise, and in the absence of proof of any
irregularities in the performance of duties, an assessment duly made by a BIR
examiner and approved by his superior officers will not be disturbed ( CIR v. Wyeth
Suaco Laboratories, Inc., G.R. No. 76281, September 30, 2005).
Exception: The prima facie correctness of a tax assessment does not apply when
the CIR comes out with a naked assessment (an assessment that is without
foundation and hence, arbitrary and capricious) (CIR v. Hantex Trading, G.R. No.
L-13975, March 31, 2005).
2.
Assessments should not be based on presumptions no matter how logical the

presumption might be. In order to stand the test of judicial scrutiny, the assessment
must be based on actual facts (Collector v. Benippayo, G.R. No. L-13656, January
31, 1962).
3.
General Rule: Assessment is discretionary on the part of the CIR. Mandamus will
not lie for it will constitute judicial encroachment on executive functions.
Exception: If in the exercise of his discretion, there is evidence of arbitrariness
and grave abuse of discretion as to go beyond statutory authority (Maceda v.
Macaraig, Jr., G.R. No. 88291, June 8, 1993).
4.
5.
The authority to assess taxes may be delegated to subordinate officers. Said

assessments have the same force and effect as that issued by the CIR (Oceanic
Wireless Network v. CIR, G.R. No. 148380, December 9, 2005).
Assessments must be directed to the right party (Republic v. De la Rama, G.R. No.
L-21108, November 29, 1966).
Kinds of Assessment:
1. Self-assessment the tax is assessed by the taxpayer himself (TAX CODE, Sec.
56[A])
Examples:
a. Income tax
b. Estate tax
c. Donors tax
d. VAT
2. Deficiency assessment made by the tax assessor himself where the correct
amount of tax is determined after an examination or investigation is conducted
(TAX CODE, Sec. 56[B]).
3. Disputed assessment takes place when a taxpayer questions an assessment
and asks the collector to reconsider or cancel the same because he believes he is
not liable therefore (St. Stephens Association v. CIR, G.R. No. L-11238, August
21, 1958).
4. Jeopardy assessment a tax assessment made by an authorized Revenue
Officer, without the benefit of a complete or partial audit, in light of the officers
belief that the assessment and collection of a deficiency tax will be jeopardized by
delay caused by the taxpayers failure to:
a. Comply with audit and investigation requirements to present his books of
accounts and/or pertinent records.
b. Substantiate all or any kind of the deductions, exemptions, or credits claimed
in his return (RR No. 30-2002, Sec 3[1][a]).
Means Employed by the Commissioner in the Assessment of Taxes
89
The following are the general (constructive) methods developed by the BIR for
reconstructing a taxpayers income where the taxpayer keeps no or inadequate records or
where there is a strong suspicion that it has received income from undisclosed sources:
1. Percentage Method - equivalent of a ratio analysis of percentages considered
typical of the business under investigation to indicate potential areas of revenue
adjustment in examination where revenue records do not exist.
2. Net Worth Method method of reconstructing income based on the theory that if
the taxpayers net worth has increased in a given year in an amount larger than his
reported income, he had understated his income for that year.
3. Bank Deposit Method the bank records of the taxpayer are analyzed and the
Revenue Officer estimates income on the basis of the total bank deposits after
eliminating non-income items.
* This does not alter the confidentiality rule of bank deposits.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Cash Expenditure Method assumes that the excess of a taxpayers

expenditures during a tax period over his reported income for that period is taxable
to the extent not approved otherwise.
Unit and Value Method the determination or verification of gross receipts may
be computed by applying price and profit figures to the known ascertainable
quantity of business done by the taxpayer.
Third Party Information or Access to Records Method third party contacts are
the sources of information.
Surveillance and Assessment Method (RAMO No. 01-2000, XIII)
Assessment Process
Summary:
1. Issuance of Letter of Authority
2. Audit or Tax investigation
3. Issuance of Preliminary Notice of Assessment (PAN)
4. Reply to PAN
5. Issuance of Formal Letter of Demand and Final Assessment Notice (FAN)
1. Issuance of Letter of Authority (LA)
An LA is a request to the taxpayer to permit the bearer thereof, a particular enforcement
officer, to conduct the necessary tax examination and verification of books and records (DE
LEON, NIRC, p. 584).
2. Audit and Tax Investigation
The Revenue Officer shall, within 120 days from the date of issuance and service of the LA,
conduct his audit and submit his report of investigation (ABAN, p. 196; RMO No. 38-88).
Effect of Failure to Complete the 120-day Period

Audit will continue without the need to revalidate the LA, but the officer concerned shall be
subjected to administrative sanctions (RMO No, 23, 2009; RMO No. 44-2010).
3. Issuance of Preliminary Assessment Notice (PAN)
PAN is issued to the taxpayer informing him of the findings of the Revenue Officer if after
review and evaluation of the taxpayers records, there is sufficient basis to assess the
taxpayer for any deficiency taxes (RR No. 18-2013, Sec 3.1.1).
* Prior to the issuance of PAN, the taxpayer may be allowed to make voluntary
payments of probable deficiency taxes and penalties (RMC No. 11-2014).
Requisites of a Valid PAN
1. Must be served to the taxpayer personally, and if not practicable, by substituted
service or by mail (RR No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.6).
2. The assessment was conducted within the scope of authority given by a valid LA
(CIR v. Sony Phils., Inc., G.R. No. 178697, November17, 2015).
3. Must be in writing and contain the facts and the law on which the proposed
assessment is based (TAX CODE, Sec. 228, par. 2; RR. No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.1).
4. Must be issued by the CIR or his duly authorized representative. They are:
a. Revenue Regional Directors
b. ACIR-LTS
c. ACIR-Enforcement and Advocacy Service (RR. No, 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.1; RMC
No. 11-2014)
Reason: To give the taxpayer the opportunity to refute the findings of the examiner and give
a more accurate and detailed explanation regarding the assessment (Sony Philippines v.
CIR, CTA Case No. 6185, October 26, 2004).
* The issuance of a Notice of Informal Conference under RR No. 12-99 before issuing
a PAN is already dispensed with pursuant to RR No, 18-2013 issued on November 28,
2013.
4. Reply to PAN
The taxpayer has fifteen (15) days from the date of receipt of PAN to reply (RR No. 182013, Sec. 3.1.1).
Requisites of a Valid Reply
1. Must be made within the 15-day period (RR No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.1).
2. Must be filed by the taxpayer or his duly authorized representative, in person or
through registered mail with return card, with the office of the duly authorized
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representatives of the CIR who signed the PAN (RMC No, 11-2014; RMC No. 392013).
1.
2.
Effects of Failure to Submit a Valid Reply to PAN

1. The taxpayer shall be considered in default and a FLD/FAN will be issued ( TAX
CODE, Sec. 228. par. 3).
2. Taxpayer can still file a protest to the FLD/FAN (TAX CODE, Sec. 228, par. 4).
5. Issuance of Formal Letter of Demand and Final Assessment Notice
FLD/FAN
A notice of assessment constituting a computation of deficiency taxes and a demand issued
to the taxpayer. This is the notice of assessment and not the PAN:
1. That must be issued within the prescriptive period to make the assessment.
2. That must be protested by the taxpayer otherwise the assessment shall become
final, executory, and demandable.
3. From which the prescriptive period to collect commences to run.
Requisites of a Valid FAN:
1. Must be issued after issuance of a valid Pan, except for those instances where a
Pan is not required (TAX CODE, Sec. 228, par. 1 & 2; RR No. 18-2013, Sec.
3.1.2).
2. Must be issued by the CIR or his duly Authorized representative (RR No. 18-2013,
Sec. 3.1.3; RMC No. 11-2014).
3. Must be served to the taxpayer personally, and if not practicable, by substituted
service or by mail (RR No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.6).
4. Must be served to the taxpayer before the lapse of the prescriptive period for
making assessment (TAX CODE, Sec. 203).
5. Must be in writing and contain the facts and the law on which the assessment is
based (RR No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.1).
6. The assessment was conducted within the scope of authority given by a valid LA
(CIR v. Sony Phils., Inc., G.R. No. 178697, November 17, 2010).
Period to issue FLD/FAN
General Rule: Fan can be issued only after a PAN was issued. This is part of the
requirements of due process and failure to comply therewith would render the assessment
void (CIR v. Metro Superama, Inc., G.R. No. 185371, December 8, 2010; SVI Information v.
CIR, CTA Case no. 8496, February 10, 2014).
After the issuance of the PAN, the FAN may be issued in any of the following
circumstances:
After the lapse of the 15-day period to respond to the PAN without the taxpayer
submitting a reply (RR No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.1).
Before the lapse of the 15-day period to respond to the PAN and the taxpayer has
not yet submitted a reply to PAN (Oakwood Management Services v. CIR, CTA
Case No. 7989, August 8, 2013).
* The issuance of the FAN before the lapse of the 15-day period for the taxpayer to file
a reply to the PAN inflicts no prejudice on the taxpayer as long as the taxpayer is
properly served the FAN and is able to intelligently contest the FAN by filing a protest
within the period allowed by law.
Reason: A PAN preparatory to the issuance of the FAN is not legally speaking an
assessment even if it contains the computation of the taxpayers liabilities (Oakwood
Management Services v. CIR, CTA Case No. 7989, August 8, 2013).
3. Within the 15 days after the filing of the response to the PAN (RR No. 18-2013,
Sec. 3.1.1).
4. After/Beyond the 15-day period after the filing of the response to PAN (RMC No.
11-2014).
* Issuance of the FLD/FAN beyond 15 days from the filing of the response to the PAN
shall not render it invalid. The non-observance of the 15-day period, however, shall
constitute an administrative infraction and the revenue officers who caused the delay
shall be subjected to administrative sanctions (RMC No. 11-2014).
Exceptions: In the following instances where PAN is not required, A FLD/FAN shall be
issued outright:
1. When the finding for any deficiency tax is the result of mathematical error in the
computation of tax as appearing on the face of the return.
2. When the excise tax due on excisable items has not been paid.
3. When a discrepancy has been determined between the tax withheld and the
amount actually remitted by the withholding agent.
4. When an article locally purchased or imported by an exempt person, such as, but
not limited to, vehicles, capital equipment, machineries and spare parts, has been
sold, traded or transferred to a non-exempt person.
5. When the taxpayer has opted to claim a refund or tax credit of excess creditable
withholding tax for a taxable period was determined to have carried over and
automatically applied the same amount claimed against the estimated tax liabilities
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for the taxable quarter or quarters of the succeeding taxable year (RR No. 182013, Sec. 3.1.2).
a.
Service of FLD/FAN
A. Modes of Service (RR. No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.6; RMC No. 11-2014)
1. Personal Service - the notice shall be served by delivering personally a
copy thereof to the party at his registered or known address or wherever
he may be found.
Known address a place other than the registered address where
business activities of the party are conducted or his place of residence.
In case personal service is not practicable, the notice shall be served by
substituted service or by mail.
2. Substituted Service resorted to when the party is not present at the
registered address or known address under the following circumstances:
a. Notice may be left at the partys registered address with his clerk or
with a person having charge thereof.
b. If the known address is a place where business activities of the party
are conducted, the notice may be left with his clerk or with a person
having charge thereof.
c. If the known address is the place of residence, substituted service
can be made by leaving a copy with a person of legal age residing
therein
d. If no person is found at the registered/known address, the revenue
officer shall bring a barangay official and two disinterested witnesses
to the address so that they may personally observe and attest to
such absence. The notice shall be given to the barangay official.
Such facts shall be contained in the bottom portion of the notice, as
well as the names, official position and signature of the witnesses.
e. Should the party be found at his registered or known address or any
other place but refuses to receive the notice, the revenue officer shall
bring a barangay official and 2 disinterested witnesses so that they
may personally observe and attest to such fact of refusal. The notice
shall be left to the barangay official. Such facts shall be contained in
the bottom portion of the notice, as well as the names, official
position and signature of the witnesses.
b.
Disinterested witness persons of legal age other than employees of the BIR.
3. Service by Mail done by sending a copy of the notice to the registered
or known address of the party by:
Registered mail with instruction to the postmaster to return the mail to

the sender after ten days if undelivered, or by reputable professional
courier service.
Ordinary mail if no registry or reputable professional courier service is
available in the locality of the addressee.
The server shall accomplish the bottom portion of the notice and make a written report
under oath setting forth the manner, place, and date of service, the name of the
person/barangay official/professional courier service who received the same and other
relevant information.
* Service to the tax agent/practitioner, who is appointed by the taxpayer under the
circumstances prescribed in the pertinent regulations on accreditation of tax agents,
shall be deemed service to the taxpayer.
The aforementioned modes of service are also applicable to the service of the PAN and
the FDDA.
The notice shall first be served to the taxpayers registered address before the same
may be served to the taxpayers known address or in the alternative, may be served to
the taxpayers registered and know address simultaneously (RMC No. 11-2014).
B. When FAN deemed made
The assessment is deemed to have been made on the date when the demand letter or
notice of assessment is released, mailed, or sent, even though the same is actually
received by the taxpayer after the expiration of the prescriptive period. (Basilan Estates
v. CIR, G.R. No. L-22492, September 5, 1967).
General Rule: When a mail matter is sent by registered mail, there exists a
presumption that it was received in the regular course of mail (Republic v. CA, G.R. No.
L-38540, April 30, 1987).
For the presumption to apply, the following facts must be proven:
1. Letter was properly addressed with postage prepaid.
2. Letter was mailed (Barcelon Roxas Securities, Inc. V. CIR, G.R. No. 157064,
August 7, 2006).
Proof of Mailing
The registry receipt issued by the post office or the official receipt issued by the
professional courier service containing sufficiently identifiable details of the transaction
shall constitute sufficient proof of mailing and shall be attached to the case docket
(RMC No. 18-2013, Sec. 3.1.6).
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BIR record book is not sufficient (Barcelon Roxas Securities, Inc. V. CIR, G.R. No.
157064, August 7, 2006).
Exception: When there is a direct denial of the receipt. The burden is shifted to the BIR
to prove the letter mailed was received by the addressee. (Republic v. CA, G.R. No. L38540, April 30, 1987; Barcelon Roxas Securities, Inc. V. CIR, G.R. No. 157064,
August 7, 2006).
C. Questioning the Validity of FLD/FAN
1. Prescription as a Defence
An FLD/FAN must be served to the taxpayer within the prescriptive period to make
a valid assessment (TAX CODE, Sec. 203).
The defence may be raised even for the first time on appeal when it is apparent on
the record that the assessment has already prescribed (CIR v. First Sumiden
Realty, Inc., CTA EB No. 975 re: CTA Case No. 8151, January 7, 2014).
2. Establishing Legal and Factual Bases of Tax Assessment
The details in the assessment notices issue to the taxpayer must be sufficient to
allow the taxpayer to intelligently answer the assessment as well as prepare the
documentary evidence for protest. If the BIR merely stated that per computerized
matching, the taxpayer has undeclared importations, the assessment is invalid
(CIR v. BASF Philippines, Inc., CTA EB Case No, 872 re CTA Case No. 7415,
September 12, 2013).
An assessment based on a Summary List of Purchases (SLP) cannot be used as
the sole basis. The SLP is doubtful, inconclusive and unreliable. The CIR must
prove the source of the information, otherwise the assessment is invalid (CIR v.
Fax N Parcel, Inc., CTA EB Case No. 883 re CTA Case No, 7415, February 14,
2013).
Authority of the CIR to make subsequent assessment or modify or revise assessment
The CIR has the authority to make subsequent assessments or modify or revise the original
assessment to collect additional sums covered by the original assessment as long as the
modification or revision is done within the prescriptive period for making assessments, and
even while the appeal of the taxpayer from the original assessment is still pending in the
CTA, so as to avoid multiplicity of suits (CIR v. Batangas Transportation Co., G.R. No. L9692, January 6, 1958).
Collection
It is the actual effort exerted by the government to effect the exaction of what is due from
the taxpayer. It is the final stage and goal of tax administration.
Is assessment necessary before collection?
General Rule: Yes, No proceeding in court without assessment for the collection of such
taxes shall be commenced (TAX CODE, Sec. 203).
A warrant of distraint and/or levy without issuance of a FAN is void (Gold Harvest Global
Corp. v. CIR, CTA Case No. 7503, September 18, 2009).
Exception: A proceeding in court for the collection of tax may be filed without prior
assessment in the following cases:
1. False or fraudulent return with intent to evade tax.
2. Failure to file a return (TAX CODE, Sec. 222[1]).
When does tax become collectible:
The government can collect when the assessment becomes final and executor for:
1. Failure to protest an FLD/FAN within the prescribed period.
2. Failure to appeal an FDDA within the prescribed period.
3. Failure to appeal an adverse decision of the court within the prescribed period.
ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES
Enforcement of Tax Lien
Tax Lien
A legal claim or charge on property, real or personal, established by law as
security in default of the payment of taxes (HSBC v. Rafferty, G.R. No. L-13188,
November 15, 1918).
Nature of Tax Lien

When a taxpayer neglects or refuses to pay his internal revenue tax liability after
demand, the amount so demanded shall be a lien in favour of the government from
the time the assessment was made by the Commissioner until paid with interest,
penalties, and costs that may accrue in addition thereto upon all property and
rights to property belonging to the taxpayer (TAX CODE, Sec. 219).
When does the lien in favour of the Government arise:
1. With respect to personal property from the time the tax became due and
payable.
2. With respect to real property from the time of registration with the Registry of
Deeds.
* It is settled that the claim of the government predicated on a tax lien is superior to
the claim of a private litigant predicated on a judgement. The tax lien attaches not
only from the service of the warrant of distraint but from the time the tax became due
and payable (CIR v. NLRC, G.R. No. 74965, November 9, 1994).
Validity of Tax Lien
93
The lien shall be valid against any mortgagee purchaser or judgement creditor only when
notice of such lien shall be filed by the CIR in the office of the Register of Deeds of the
province or city where the property of the taxpayer is situated (TAX CODE, Sec. 219).
Distraint of Personal Property
Kinds of Distraint:
1. Actual Distraint
Resorted to when at the time required for payment, a person fails to pay his
delinquent tax obligation (NIRC, Sec. 207[A]).
It is the actual seizure and taking possession of personal property of the taxpayer.
Delinquent Taxpayer
A taxpayer is considered delinquent in the payment of his tax when the:
a. Self-assessed tax per return filed on the prescribed date was not paid at all or
partially paid.
b. Deficiency tax assessed by the BIR became final and executor.
Procedure for Actual Distraint
a. Commencement of distraint proceedings by:
1. CIR or his duly authorized representative where amount involved is
greater than 1M.
2. Revenue District Officer where amount involved is 1M or less (TAX
CODE, Sec. 207[A]).
b. Service of warrant of distraint
The personal property of the taxpayer is physically taken by the distraining
officer (TAX CODE, Sec. 208).
c. Report on the distraint
1. It shall be submitted by the distraining officer to the Revenue District
Officer and to the Revenue Regional Director within 10 days from receipt
of warrant.
2. The CIR or his duly authorized representative has the power to lift the
order of distraint (TAX CODE, Sec. 207[A]).
d. Notice of sale of distrained properties
1. Notice shall specify the time and place of sale and the articles distrained.
2. The time of sale shall not be less than 20 days after the notice to the
owner or possessor of the property and posting of such notice.
3. The posting shall be made in not less than two public places in the city or
municipality where the distraint is made. One place for the posting of such
notice is at the Office of the Mayor of such city or municipality in which the
property is distrained (TAX CODE, Sec. 209).
e. Sale at public auction
1. Sale must be held at the time and place stated at the notice.
2.
It may be conducted by the Revenue Officer or through a licensed

commodity or stock exchange.
3. If the sale is conducted by the officer, rather than the officer serving the
warrant, it must be held at a public auction and the property shall be sold
to the highest bidder for cash.
4. If the sale is through a licensed commodity or stock exchange, it must be
with the approval of the CIR.
5. In the case of stocks and other securities, the officer making the sale shall
execute a bill of sale, which shall be delivered to the buyer and to the
corporation, company or association (CCA) which issued the stocks or
other securities. Upon receipt of the copy of the bill of sale, an entry of
transfer should be made in the CCAs book and a corresponding
certificate of stock shall be issued if required (TAX CODE, Sec. 209).
6. Any residue over and above what is required to pay the entire claim
including expenses shall be returned to the owner of the property sold.
Expenses chargeable upon seizure shall include only those actual
expenses of seizure and preservation of the property pending the sale
and does not include services of the Revenue Officer (TAX CODE, Sec.
210)
Right of Pre-emption: If at any time prior to the consummation of the sale all
proper charges are paid to the officer conducting the sale, all the distrained
properties shall be restored to the owner (TAX CODE, Sec. 211).
There is no right of Redemption
Purchase by the Government at Sale upon Distraint (TAX CODE, Sec. 212)
When the amount bid for the distrained property is:
a. Not equal to the amount of tax.
b. Very much less than the actual market value of the property offered for sale.
The CIR or his deputies may purchase on behalf of the National Government for
the amount of the taxes, penalties, and cost due thereon.
Property so purchased may be resold by the CIR or his deputy; the net proceeds
shall be remitted to the National Treasury and accounted as internal revenue.
Distraint of Intangible Properties
Intangible properties which can be the subject of distraint are:
a. Stocks and other securities by serving a copy of the warrant of distraint
upon the taxpayer and upon the president, manager, treasurer, or other
responsible officer of the corporation, company, or association, which issued
the same.
94
b.
c.
Debts and credits by leaving with the person owning the debts or having in
his possession or under his control such credits, or his agent, a copy of the
warrant of distraint.
Bank accounts by serving a warrant of garnishment upon the taxpayer and
upon the president, manager, treasurer, or other responsible officer of the
bank ((TAX CODE, Sec. 208)
Garnishment
The taking of personal properties, usually cash or sums of money, owned by the
delinquent taxpayer which is in the possession of a third party.
Bank accounts may be distrained notwithstanding the Bank Secrecy Act (R.A.
1405) which prohibits inquiry into bank accounts, since in the case of distraints, no
inquiry is made. The BIR merely seizes so much of the deposits as is sufficient to
discharge the obligation without having to know how much the deposits are, or
where the money or part of it came from (Opinion of the Secretary of Justice, No.
54 s. 1956)
2. Constructive Distraint
Issued where no actual tax delinquency of the taxpayer is necessary before the same is
resorted to by the government (ABAN, p. 238)
It is a preventive remedy to forestall possible dissipation of the taxpayers assets when
delinquency takes place.
It is issued in the following cases when the taxpayer is:
a. Retiring from any business subject to tax.
b. Intending to leave the Philippines.
c. Intending to remove his properties therefrom or to hide or conceal his property.
d. Intending to perform any act tending to obstruct the proceedings for collecting the
tax due or which may be due from him (TAX CODE, Sec. 206)
Constructive distraint is effected:
a. By requiring the taxpayer or any person having possession or control of such
property to sign a receipt covering the property distrained and obligate himself to
preserve the same intact and unaltered and not to dispose of the same in any
manner whatever without the express authority of the CIR.
Punishment in case of violation: Upon the conviction, a fine of not less than twice the
value of the property so sold, encumbered, or disposed of but not less than P 5,000, or
suffer imprisonment of not less than two years and one day but not more than four
years, or both (TAX CODE, Sec. 276)
b. In case the person refuse or fails to sign the receipt, the Revenue Officer effecting
the constructive distraint shall prepare a list of the property and in the presence of
two witnesses, leave a copy thereof in the premises of the property where the
property distrained is located (TAX CODE, Sec. 206).
Levy of Real Property

Levy
Refers to the seizure of real properties and interest in or rights to such properties
for the satisfaction of taxes due from the delinquent taxpayer (DIMAAMPAO, p.
158).
When may levy be effected
Real property may be levied upon before, simultaneously, or after the distraint of
personal property belonging to the delinquent taxpayer (TAX CODE, Sec. 207[B]);
and the remedy of distraint and levy may be repeated if necessary if the full
amount, including expenses, is collected (TAX CODE, Sec. 217).
In case the warrant of levy is not issued before, or simultaneously with the warrant
of distraint and the personal property of the taxpayer is not sufficient to satisfy his
delinquency, the CIR or his authorized representative shall, within 30 days after the
execution of the distraint, proceed with the levy on the taxpayers real property
(TAX CODE, Sec. 207[B]).
Procedure for levy
1. Issuance of Warrant of Levy
Preparation of a duly authenticated certificate containing:
a. Description of property levied
b. Name of the taxpayer
c. Amount of tax and penalty due from him
This certificate shall operate with the force and effect of a legal execution
throughout the Philippines (TAX CODE, Sec. 207[B]).
2. Service of the Warrant
How is levy effected
Written notice of the levy shall be mailed or served upon:
a. The Register of Deeds of the city or province where the property is
located.
b. Upon the delinquent taxpayer, or if he is absent from the Philippines, to
his agent or the manager of the business in respect to which the liability
95
3.
arose, or if there be none, the occupant of the property in question (TAX

CODE, Sec. 207[B])
Advertisement of Sale
The Advertisement shall contain:
a. Amount of tax and penalties due.
b. Name of the taxpayer against whom the taxes are levied.
c. Time and place of sale.
d. Short description of the property to be sold.
4.
5.
The advertisement shall be made within 20 days after the levy, and the same
shall be for a period of at least 30 days (TAX CODE, Sec. 213).
Advertisement shall be effectuated by:
a. Posting a notice at the main entrance of the municipal building or city hall
and in a public and conspicuous place in the barrio or district in which
the real property lies.
b. Publication once a week for three weeks in a newspaper of general
circulation in the municipality or city where the property is located.
Public Sale of Property under Levy
Taxpayer is given the right of pre-emption before the sale.
If he does not exercise it, the sale shall proceed and shall be held either at the
main entrance of the municipal building or city hall, or on the premises to be
sold, as the officer conducting the proceedings shall determine and as the
notice of the sale shall specify (TAX CODE, Sec. 213).
Right of Pre-emption: The taxpayer may discontinue all proceedings by
paying the taxes, penalties, and interest at any time before the day fixed for
the sale.
A Certificate of Sale shall be delivered to the purchaser.
If the proceeds of the sale exceed the claim and cost of sale, the excess shall
be turned over to the owner of the property.
Redemption of Property (TAX CODE, Sec. 214)
Period: Within one year from the date of the sale.
The one year period for redemption begins from the registration of the deed of
sale (Santos v. RFC, G.R. No. L-9796, July 31, 1967).
Who may redeem: The delinquent taxpayer or anyone for him.
To whom made: To the Revenue District Officer.
How made: Upon payment of the taxes, penalties, and interest thereon from
the date of the delinquency to the date of sale, together with interest on
purchase price at 15% per annum from the date of sale to the date of
redemption.
6.
The owner shall not be deprived of the possession of the property and shall be
entitled to the rents and other income thereof until the expiration of the time
allowed for redemption.
Effects of Redemption of Property Sold:
a. Such payment shall entitle the taxpayer to the delivery of the certificate
issued to the purchaser and a certificate from the RDO that he has
redeemed the property.
b. The RDO shall pay the purchaser the amount by which such property has
been redeemed and said property shall be free from lien of such taxes
and penalties.
Further Distraint and Levy
The remedy of distraint and levy may be repeated if necessary until the full
amount of the tax delinquency including all expenses is collected from the
taxpayer (TAX CODE, Sec. 217)
Grounds for Forfeiture to the Government:
a. No bidder for the real property.
b. The highest bid is for an amount insufficient to pay the taxes, penalties,
and costs (TAX CODE, Sec. 215)
The Register of Deeds shall transfer title to the Government upon registration
with his office of the declaration of forfeiture.
Within one year from forfeiture, the taxpayer may redeem his property.
Resale of Real Estate Taken for Taxes
The CIR shall have charge of any real estate obtained by the Government in
payment of taxes, penalties or costs arising under the Tax Code or in
compromise or adjustment of any claim.
The CIR may:
a. Sell and dispose of the same at a public auction upon giving of not less
than 20 days notice.
b. Dispose of the same at a private sale with the approval of the Secretary
of Finance (TAX CODE, Sec. 216)
c.
* The remedies of distraint and levy as well as collection by civil and criminal action
may, in the discretion of the CIR, be pursued singly or independently of each other, or
all of them simultaneously.
Both distraint and levy are summary remedies and cannot be availed of
where the amount of tax involved is than P 100.
Real property placed under levy may be sold at public auction for less than
its market value (NIRC, Sec. 215) since the taxpayer is given the right to
96
redeem (NIRC, Sec. 214). With respect to distrained personal property the
rule is different (NIRC, Sec. 212).
Penalties and Fines
Increments to the basic tax incident to the taxpayers non-compliance with certain legal
requirements.
1.
No Injunction to Restrain Collection of Tax

No court shall have the authority to grant an injunction to restrain the collection of any
national internal revenue tax, fee or charge imposed (TAX CODE, Sec. 218), except when
in the opinion of the CTA:
1. Collection of the tax would jeopardize the government and/or taxpayer.
2. Shall thereafter require the taxpayer to deposit the amount claimed or to file a
surety bond for not more than double the amount with the court (R.A. 922, Sec. 9).
3.
Forfeiture (of Confiscated Articles)

Forfeiture
The divestiture of property without compensation, in consequence of a default or offense
(Balllantines Law Dictionary, p. 519).
Seizure v. Forfeiture
In seizure for the enforcement of tax lien, the residue, after deducting the tax liability and
expenses, are returned to the taxpayer. (BPI v. Trinidad, G.R. No. 16014, October 4, 1941)
In forfeiture, all the proceeds of the sale will go to the coffers of the government (U.S. v.
Surla, G.R. No. 6536, September 2, 1911).
A taxpayer in forfeiture or seizure cases to enforce tax lien may still be subject to criminal
action even if his property has been forfeited (Garcia v. Collector, G.R. No. 44372,
November 3, 1938).
Enforcement of the Remedy of Forfeiture
1. In case of personal property by seizure and sale or destruction of specific
forfeited property.
2. In case of real property by judgement of condemnation and sale in a legal action
or proceeding, civil or criminal, as the case may require (TAX CODE, Sec. 224)
This remedy is different from the provision directing forfeiture of real property in certain
cases in the remedy of levy under Sec. 215. Judicial intervention, which is required for
forfeiture of real property under Sec. 224, is not required under Sec. 215 since the
taxpayer has the right of redemption (DE LEON, NIRC 2, pp. 515-516).
Forfeited Goods or Articles (TAX CODE, Sec. 225)
2.
Sold in case of forfeited chattels and removable fixtures, so far as practicable,

under the same conditions as the public notice and the time and manner of sale as
are prescribed for sales of personal property distrained for non-payment of taxes.
Destroyed in case of distilled spirits, liquors, cigarettes, other manufactured
products of tobacco and all apparatuses used in or about the illicit production of
such articles, by the CIR when the sale of the same for consumption or use would
be injurious to public health or prejudicial to the enforcement of law.
Sold or destroyed in cases of all other articles subject to excise tax, which have
been manufactured or removed in violation of NIRC, dies for printing or making of
internal revenue stamps and labels which are in imitation of or purport to be lawful
stamps, or labels, in the discretion of the Commissioner.
* Forfeited property shall not be destroyed until at least 20 days after seizure.
Instances when Forfeiture is Appropriate
1. All chattels and removable fixtures of any sort, used in the unlicensed production of
articles (TAX CODE, Sec. 268 [B])
2. Dies used for printing or making of any imitation revenue stamp, label or tag which
is an imitation of or purports to be a lawful stamp, label or tag (TAX CODE, Sec.
268[B])
3. Liquor or tobacco shipped under a false name or brand (TAX CODE, Sec. 262)
JUDICIAL REMEDIES
Civil Action
For tax remedy purposes, these are actions instituted by the government to collect internal
revenue taxes including the filing by the government of claims against the deceased
taxpayer with the probate court. The government can collect when the assessment has
become final and executor.
Two Ways to Enforce Civil Liability through Civil Action
1. By filing a civil case for collection of a sum of money with the proper regular court
(TAX CODE, Sec. 203 and 222).
2. By filing an answer to the petition for review filed by the taxpayer with the CTA
( Fernandez Hermanos, Inc. v. CIR, G.R. No. L-21551, September 30, 1969).
Can the BIR file a civil action for the collection pending the decision of the
administrative protest?
97
Yes. The request for reinvestigation and reconsideration was in effect considered denied by
the CIR when the latter filed a civil suit for collection of deficiency income (CIR v. Union
Shipping, G.R. No. L-66160, May 21, 1990).
Forms and Mode of Proceeding:
1. Civil actions shall be brought in the name of the Government of the Philippines.
2. It shall be conducted by legal officers of the BIR.
3. No civil or criminal action for the recovery of taxes shall be filed in court without the
approval of the CIR (TAX CODE, Sec. 220).
1.
* The CIR may delegate such power (NIRC, Sec. 7)

Participation of the Solicitor General
In view of the amendment of Sec. 220 of the NIRC, the written conformity of the CIR and no
longer of the Solicitor General or the Government Corporate Counsel, should be secured
(DE LEON, NIRC 2, p. 497).
Criminal Action
A criminal complaint is instituted to penalize the taxpayer for the violation of the TAX Code.
Two Common Crimes Punishable:
1. Attempt to evade or defeat tax (TAX CODE, SEC. 254).
2. Failure to file a return, supply correct and accurate information, pay tax, withhold
and remit tax and refund excess taxes withheld on compensation (TAX CODE,
Sec. 255).
Criminal action in violation of the NIRC also constitutes a collection method because the
judgement in the criminal case not only imposes the penalty but shall also order the
payment of the taxes subject of the criminal case as finally decide by the CIR (TAX CODE,
Sec. 205).
Any person convicted of a crime penalized by the NIRC shall, in addition to being liable for
the payment of the tax, be subject to the penalties imposed herein (TAX CODE, Sec.
253[a]).
Form and Mode of Proceeding
Same with civil actions (TAX CODE, Sec. 220).
Letters of referral/complaints filed by the CIR that states, I hereby recommend the
prosecution of the following for violation of the National Internal Revenue Code, as
amended constitute approval of filing of cases in court (People v. Tan, G.R. No. 144707,
July 13, 2004).
Importance Principles on Criminal Actions
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Assessment is not necessary before filing a criminal action and criminal

action may be filed during the pendency of an administrative protest in the
BIR. It is not a requirement for the filing thereof that there be a precise computation
and assessment of the tax, since what is involved in the criminal action is not the
collection of the tax but a criminal prosecution for the violation of the NIRC,
provided however, that there is prima facie showing of a wilful attempt to evade
taxes or failure to file the required return (Ungab v. Cusi. G.R. Nos. L-41919, May
30, 1980 in relation to CIR v. CA, G.R. No. 119322, June 4, 1996; CIR v. Pascor
Realty Development Corp., G.R. No. 128315, June 29, 1999).
Exception: Before the tax liabilities of Fortune are first finally determined, it
cannot be correctly asserted that private respondents have wilfully attempted to
evade or defeat taxes sought to be collected from Fortune. In plain words, before
one is prosecuted for wilful attempt to evade or defeat any tax under Sec's. 253
and 255 of the NIRC, the fact that a tax is due must first be proved (CIR v. CA and
Fortune Tobacco, G.R. No. 119322, June 4, 1996).
Effect of acquittal of the taxpayer in the criminal action
It does not necessarily result in the exoneration of said taxpayer from his civil
liability to pay taxes.
Reason: The duty to pay is imposed by statute prior to and independent of any
attempt on the part of the taxpayer to evade payment. It is neither a mere
consequence of the felonious acts charged nor is it a mere civil liability derived
from a crime (Republic v. Patanao, G.R. No. L-14142, May 30, 1961).
Effect of subsequent satisfaction of civil liability
It does not extinguish the taxpayers criminal liability (People v. Tierra, G.R. Nos.
L-17177-80, December 28, 1964).
No subsidiary imprisonment
In case of insolvency on the part of the taxpayer, subsidiary imprisonment cannot
be imposed as regards the tax which he is sentenced to pay.
However, it may be imposed in cases of failure to pay the fines imposed (TAX
CODE, Sec. 280).
Criminal action may be filed despite the lapse of the period to file a civil
action for collection of taxes
When the civil action arising from tax delinquency has prescribed, the BIR has only
five years from assessment within which to collect the tax through criminal action in
which case it would prescribe after the lapse of five years from discovery of crime
and institution of proceedings (TAX CODE, Sec. 281).
Filing of a criminal action is not an implied assessment by the CIR
An affidavit, which was executed by revenue officers stating the tax liabilities of a
taxpayer and attached to a criminal complaint for tax evasion, cannot be deemed
as assessment (CIR v. Pascor Realty. G.R. No. 1218315, June 29, 1999).
98
The recommendation by the CIR to the DOJ for the filing of a criminal complaint
against the taxpayer cannot be considered a formal assessment. Even a cursory
perusal of the letter would reveal three key points:
a. It was not addressed to the taxpayer.
b. There was no demand made to the taxpayer to pay the tax liability, nor a
period for payment set therein.
c. The letter was never mailed or sent to the taxpayer by the CIR.
7.
In fine, the said recommendation letter served merely as the prima facie basis for
the filing of the criminal information that the taxpayer had violated the penal
provisions of the tax code (Adamson v. CA, G.R. No. 1290935, May 21, 2009).
No reservation to file civil action
Under R.A. 9282, the filing of the criminal case implies also the filing of the civil
case. In fact, no reservation for the filing of the civil case may be made under this
law, unlike that of a felony under the RPC (MAMALATEO, pp. 445-446).
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
Assessment
General Rule: Within three years after the last day prescribed by the law for the filing of the
return or from the date of actual filing the return, whichever comes later (ordinary or
normal assessment) (TAX CODE, Sec. 203).
Exceptions:
1. In case of false or fraudulent return with intent to evade tax or failure to file a
return within 10 years after the discovery of falsity, fraud or omission
(extraordinary or abnormal assessment) (TAX CODE, Sec.222[a]).
2. In case there is valid waiver of the statute of limitations up to the extended
period agreed upon (TAX CODE, Sec. 222[b]).
* The prescriptive period for making assessment shall also apply when the
Government makes an erroneous refund of internal revenue taxes. The prescriptive
period is not the six-year period of limitation under Art. 1145 of the Civil Code on
quasi-contracts (ABAN, p. 296) because the demand of the Government on the taxpayer
to pay the erroneously refunded tax is in effect an assessment of deficiency tax (Guaga
Electric v. CIR, G.R. No. L-23611, April 24, 1967).
Construction of Statutory Provision on Prescription
For the purpose of safeguarding taxpayers from any unreasonable examination,
investigation or assessment, our tax law provides a statute of limitations in the collection of
taxes. Thus, the law on prescription, being a remedial measure, should be liberally
construed in order to afford such protection. As a corollary, the exceptions to the law on
prescription should perforce be strictly construed (CIR v. B.F. Goodrich Phils., Inc. G.R. No.
104171, February 24, 1999).
The law of prescription should be interpreted in a way conducive to bringing about the
beneficent purpose of affording protection to the taxpayer within the contemplation of the
Commission which recommended the approval of the law (Republic v. Ablaza, G.R. No. L14519, July 26, 1990).
Computing for the Prescriptive Period
Both Art. 13 of the Civil Code and the Administrative Code deal the computation of legal
periods. The Administrative Code being the more recent law, it shall govern the computation
of legal periods under the principle Lex posterior derogate priori (CIR v. Primetown Property
Group, Inc, G.R. No. 162155, August 28, 2007).
Burden of proof that a return was filed to apply the three year prescriptive period
It is incumbent on the taxpayer to prove that a return had been filed by him in order that the
three-year prescriptive period may apply (Republic v. Marsman Dev't., G.R. No. L-18956,
April 27, 1972) because the prescription of the Governments right to assess taxes is an
affirmative defence (Taligaman Lumber v. CIR, G.R. No. L-15716, March 31, 1962).
Requisites in order that a return may be considered filed for purposes of starting the
running of the prescriptive period:
1. The return must be valid it must comply substantially with the requirements of the
law.
2. The return must be appropriate it is a return for the particular tax required by law.
Thus, an income tax return cannot be considered as the equivalent of the Vat or
percentage return (Butuan Sawmill, Inc. v. CTA, G.R. No. L-20601, February 28,
1966).
Amendment of Tax Return
General Rule: The following shall govern in case there is an amendment of the return:
1. If the amendment is substantial, the counting of the prescriptive period shall be
reckoned on the date the substantial amendment was made.
2. If the amendment was superficial, the counting of the prescriptive period is still the
original period (CIR v. Phoenix Assurance, G.R. No. L-19727, May 20, 1965).
Example of Substantial amendment: An amendment of an original income tax return
showing a net loss to show more losses (CIR v. Phoenix Assurance, G.R. No. L-19727,
May 20, 1965).
Reason: To prevent taxpayers from evading the payment of taxes by simply reporting
in their original return heavy losses and amending the same more years later when the
CIR has lost his authority to assess the proper tax thereunder. The object of the NIRC
99
is to impose taxes for the needs of the Government and not to enhance tax avoidance
to its prejudice (CIR v. Phoenix Assurance, G.R. No. L-19727, May 20, 1965).
Exception: If the return is sufficiently complete to enable the CIR to intelligently
determine the proper amount of tax to be assessed, then the prescriptive period for the
assessment starts from the filing of the original return (A.L. Ammen Transportation v.
Collector, CTA Case No. 540, November 10, 1965).
False Return
That which contains wrong information due to mistake, carelessness or ignorance
(Aznar v. CIR, G.R. No. L-20569, August 23, 1974).
A substantial under-remittance of withholding tax on compensation constitutes falsity to
warrant the 10-year prescriptive period (Samar-I Electric Cooperative, Inc. v CIR, CTA
EB Case No. 462, March 11 2010).
Fraudulent Return
For the 10-year prescriptive period to apply based on fraud, such fact must first be
proved as a fact by the BIR.
Such fact in a fraud assessment which has already become final and executor shall be
judicially taken cognizance of in a civil or criminal action for the collection thereof (TAX
CODE, Sec. 222[a]).
The following instances negate the existence of fraud and preclude the application of
the 10-year prescriptive period:
1. The CIR failed to impute fraud in the assessment notice or demand for payment.
2. The CIR failed to allege fraud in his answer to the taxpayers petition for review
when the case is appealed to CTA (ABAN, pp. 274-275).
3. The fact that the CTA raised the question of fraud only for the first time in his
memorandum which was filed with the CTA after he had rested his case
(Taligaman Lumber v. CIR, G.R. No. L-15716, March 31, 1962).
4. The fact that the CIR did not include fraud penalty in his deficiency assessment
which was issued after the filing of the return as an indication that he himself did
not believe that there was fraud (Gomez v. Domingo, CTA Case no, 1168,
February 15, 1964).
5. In an assessment, where the BIR appeared not so sure as to the real amount of
the taxpayers net income, as where the BIR arrived at three highly different
computations (Republic v. Lim de Yu, G.R. No. L-17438, April 30, 1964).
6. The CIR merely relied upon an alleged substantial under declaration of income tax
resulting from his own computation.
7. Mere understatement of gross earnings does not by itself prove fraud (Yutivo Sons
v. CTA, G.R. No. L-13203, January 28, 1961).
Failure to File a Return

The following constitutes failure to file to warrant the 10-year prescriptive period:
1. A deficient return prevented the CIR from computing taxes due. Such defective
return is the same as if no return was filed (CIR v. Gonzales, G.R. No, L-19495,
November 24, 1964).
2. Failure to report income in returns which were clearly not exempted from tax. The
court did not treat this as a simple omission as the same involved substantial sums
(Standard Chartered Bank v. CIR, CTA EB Case No. 731, September 13, 2012).
Waiver of Statute of Limitations

Requisites:
1. In must be in the proper form prescribe under RDAO No. 05-01.
2. It must specify a definite agreed date between the BIR and the taxpayer within
which the former may assess and collect taxes.
3. It must be signed by the taxpayer himself or his duly authorized representative.
a. In case of a corporation, the waiver must be signed by any of its responsible
officials.
b. In case the authority is delegated by the taxpayer to a representative, such
authority must be in writing and notarized.
4. The CIR or the revenue official authorized by him must sign the waiver indicating
that the BIR has accepted and agreed to the waiver.
a. The date of such acceptance by the BIR must be indicated.
b. Before signing the waiver, the CIR or the revenue official authorized must
make sure that the waiver is in the prescribed form, duly notarized, and
executed by the taxpayer or his duly authorized representative.
5. Both the date of execution by the taxpayer and the date of acceptance by the BIR
should be made before the expiration of the period of prescription or before the
lapse of the period agreed upon in case a subsequent agreement is executed.
6. The waiver must be executed in three copies.
a. Original copy - attached to the docket of the case.
b. Second Copy taxpayers copy.
c. Third Copy copy of the Office accepting the waiver.
7. The fact of receipt by the taxpayer of his/her copy must be indicated in the original
copy to show that the taxpayer was notified of the acceptance of the BIR and the
perfection of the agreement.
8. It must be duly notarized.
9. It must not reduce but extend the period allowed for the government to assess and
collect taxes (RMO No, 20-90; RDAO No. 05-01; RMC No. 06-05; Republic v.
Lopez, G.R. No. :-18007, March 30, 1963).
100
* The waiver of the statute of limitations does not mean that the taxpayer relinquishes
its right to invoked prescription (Philippine Journalists, Inc. v. CIR, G.R. No. 162852,
December 16, 2004).
Failure to comply with all the requirements stated above renders the waiver invalid.
As such, the prescriptive period shall not be extended.
The taxpayer may, however, be stopped to question the validity of the waiver as when
he made partial payment of the revised assessments issued within the extended
period as provided in the questioned waivers. The Court held that had he believed the
waivers were invalid and the assessments were issued beyond the prescriptive
period, then it should not have paid the reduced amount of taxes in the revised
assessments (RCBC v. CIR, G.R. No. 1702567, September 7, 2011).
Collection
The following rules shall govern the prescriptive period of collection of taxes:
1. For both normal or ordinary assessment (one with the three-year period to
assess) and Abnormal or extraordinary assessment (one with the 10-year
period to assess) Five years from the time the assessment was made.
2. Collection without assessment through judicial action 10 years after the
discovery of the falsity, fraud or omission to file a return.
The Government may collect without prior assessment in the same instances
under abnormal or extraordinary assessment.
Grounds for Suspension of the Running of the Statute of Limitations to Assess and
Collect: (TAX CODE, Sec. 223)
1. When the CIR is prohibited from making the assessment or beginning the distraint
or levy or a proceeding in court, and for sixty days thereafter.
2. When the taxpayer requests for reinvestigation and is granted by the CIR.
Requisites:
a. There must be a request for reinvestigation and not a request for
reconsideration (CIR v. Philippine Global Communications, G.R. No. 167146,
October 31, 2006).
b. The request for reinvestigation must be granted or acted upon by the CIR (BPI
v. CIR, G.R. No. 174942, March 7, 2008).
response to the request for reinvestigation (BPI v. CIR, G.R. No. 174942, March 7,
2008).
3.
4.
5.
When the taxpayer cannot be located in the address given by him in the return,
unless he informs the CIR of any change in his address.
When the warrant of distraint or levy is duly served, and no property is located.
When the taxpayer is out of the Philippines.
Criminal Cases
All violations of any provision of this Code shall prescribe after five years (NIRC, Sec. 281).
When does the prescriptive period of prescription begin to run:

1. From the day of the commission of the violation of the law (TAX CODE, Sec. 281).
The five-year prescriptive period for the violation of any provision of the Tax Code
should be reckoned from the date of the final notice and demand for payment of
the deficiency taxes that the cause of action on the part of the BIR accrued. This is
because prior to the receipt of the letter-assessment, no violation has yet been
committed (DIZON, citing Lim, Sr. V. CA, G.R. Nos. 48134-37. October 18, 1990).
2. If the same be not known at the time, from the discovery thereof and the institution
of judicial proceedings for its investigation and punishment (TAX CODE, Sec. 281).
Necessity of Judicial Proceeding
The Supreme Court held that in case of falsity or fraud with intent to evade the tax, the right
of the government to collect through criminal action is imprescriptible because the remedy
of collection through criminal action is only deemed instituted from its discovery and the
institution of the judicial proceedings for its investigation and punishment (Lim, Sr. V. CA,
G.R. Nos. 48134-37, October 18, 1990).
Interruption of the Prescriptive Period
The period shall be interrupted:
1. When the proceedings are instituted against the guilty persons.
2. When the offender is absent from the Philippines (TAX CODE, Sec. 281).
* In No. 1, the period shall run again if the proceedings are dismissed for reasons not
constituting jeopardy (TAX CODE, Sec. 281).
* The burden of proof that the request for reinvestigation had been actually granted
shall be on the CIR. Such grant may be expressed in its communication with the
taxpayer or implied from the action of the CIR or his authorized representative in
REMEDIES OF THE TAXPAYER UNDER NIRC
101
QUESTION: Can the taxpayer institute a direct action before a court of justice to protest the
assessment?
ANSWER: No. The assessment may be protested administratively by filing a request for
reconsideration or reinvestigation within 30 days from receipt of assessment (Sec. 228 (4)
NIRC).
QUESTION: What about the claim for refund?
ANSWER: No. No suit or proceeding shall be maintained in any court for the recovery of
any national internal revenue tax UNTIL a claim for refund or credit has been filed with the
Commissioner(Sec. 229 NIRC).
I.
Before Payment
A.
Administrative Remedies
1.
Protest against Assessment

Protest, as used in internal revenue taxation, it is an act by the
taxpayer of questioning the validity of the imposition of the
corresponding delinquency increments for internal revenue taxes as
shown in the notice of assessment and letter of demand. The protest
may be a Request for reconsideration which involves re-evaluation of
assessment based on existing records and does not toll the Statute
of Limitations or Request for reinvestigation which involves
presentation of newly-discovered or additional evidence and tolls the
Statute of Limitations.
A valid protest must have the following requisites: (a) in writing;
(b) addressed to the CIR; (c) it must be accompanied by a waiver of
the Statute of Limitations in favour of the government. Such waiver is
a bilateral agreement between taxpayer and BIR. It is not a unilateral
act by the taxpayer or the BIR. The waiver of Statute of Limitations
does not mean that taxpayer relinquishes its right to invoke
prescription; (d) it must state the facts, applicable law, rules and
regulations or jurisprudence on which his protest is based, otherwise,
his protest shall be considered void and without force and effect on
the event the letter of protest submitted by the taxpayer is accepted;
and (e) it must contain: (1) name of the taxpayer and address; (2)
nature of the request; (3) taxable periods covered by the

assessment; (4) amount and kind of tax involved; (5) date of receipt
of assessment notice or letter of demand; (6) itemized statement of
the finding to which the taxpayer agrees as basis for the computation
of the tax due; (7) itemized schedule of the adjustments to which the
taxpayer does not agree; (8) supporting facts or law; (9) documentary
evidence.
As a general rule, no prior payment of assessed internal revenue
tax is required when protested or disputed. Exception: if there are
several issues involved in the Final Assessment Notice (FAN) but the
taxpayer only disputes or protests against the validity of some of the
issues raised, the taxpayer shall be required to pay the deficiency tax
or taxes attributable to the undisputed issues. If the taxpayer does
not pay, the disputed issues shall be considered as undisputed.
(Payment in Protest)
Procedure in Protesting an Assessment: (1) the taxpayer shall
file his Protest within 30 days from receipt of the Final Assessment
(FAN). After receipt of FAN, the taxpayer cannot immediately appeal
to the CTA. The taxpayer must pay the deficiency tax if the taxpayer
protests only to some of the issues raised. (2) The taxpayer shall
submit all relevant supporting documents within 60 days from the
filing of the protest. Non-submission renders the assessment final,
executory and demandable. (3) If the protest is denied by the
Commissioners authorized representative, the taxpayer may elevate
the protest to the Commissioner within 30 days from receipt of the
decision for a request for reconsideration and to be referred to the
Bureaus Appellate Division. (4) If the protest is denied in whole or in
part by the Commissioner, the taxpayer may appeal to the CTA within
30 days from receipt of decision, otherwise, the assessment shall
become final, executory and demandable except when it is appealed
to the CIR. Instead of appealing to the CTA at once, the taxpayer
may first opt to file a Motion for Reconsideration of the denial of the
administrative protest with the Commissioner. The MR does not toll
the 30-day period to appeal to the CTA. If the MR is denied, the
taxpayer may then appeal to the CTA, but only within the remaining
period of the original 30-day period to appeal, if any. The forms of
denial may be direct or indirect denial of protest.(5) lastly, the
102
taxpayer may appeal to the Supreme Court from the adverse

decision of the CTA within 15 days.
2.
(1) Appeal to the Court of Tax Appeals (Division), within 30 days from
receipt of decision on the protest or from the lapse of 180 days due to
inaction of the Commissioner otherwise it will be final and executory;
(2) Appeal the CTA en banc, the party adversely affected by the CTA
Divisions decision may file one (1) motion for reconsideration/new
trial within 15 days from receipt of the decision with the CTA division.
If the MR is denied, file a petition for review with the CTA en banc;
(3) Appeal to the Supreme Court, within 16 days from the receipt of the
decision of the CTA;
(4) By way of special civil action, petition for certiorari, prohibition
and mandamus to the Supreme Court in case of grave abuse of
discretion, lack of jurisdiction or excess of jurisdiction;
(5) Action to contest forfeiture of chattel, at any time before the sale
or destruction thereof, to recover the same, and upon giving proper
bond, enjoin the sale; or after the sale and within 6 months, an action
to recover the net proceeds realized at the sale (Sec. 231 NIRC);
(6) Action for damages against a revenue officer by reason of any act
done in the performance of official duty (Sec. 227 NIRC);
(7) Injunction, to be issued by the CTA if collection may jeopardize the
interest of the government and/or the taxpayer (R.A. 1125 as
amended by R.A. 9282).
Entering into a Compromise

SECTION 204. Authority of the Commissioner to Compromise,
Abate and Refund or Credit Taxes. - The Commissioner may Compromise the payment of any internal revenue tax, when: (a) A
reasonable doubt as to the validity of the claim against the taxpayer
exists; or (b) The financial position of the taxpayer demonstrates a
clear inability to pay the assessed tax.
The compromise settlement of any tax liability shall be subject to
the following minimum amounts: (a) For cases of financial incapacity,
a minimum compromise rate equivalent to ten percent (10%) of the
basic assessed tax; and (b) For other cases, a minimum compromise
rate equivalent to forty percent (40%) of the basic assessed tax.
Where the basic tax involved exceeds One million pesos
(P1,000,000) or where the settlement offered is less than the
prescribed minimum rates, the compromise shall be subject to the
approval of the Evaluation Board which shall be composed of the
Commissioner and the four (4) Deputy Commissioners.
Instances of Compromise:
Revenue Regulations No. 30-2002, as amended, provided for
specific instances where tax liability in the Philippines could be
compromised based on certain conditions and requirements, to wit:
(1) Delinquent accounts;
(2) Cases under administrative protest after issuance of the FAN to
the taxpayer which are still pending in the Regional Offices,
Revenue District Offices, Legal Service, Large Taxpayer Service
(LTS), Collection Service, Enforcement Service and other offices
in the National Office;
(3) Civil tax cases being disputed before the courts;
(4) Collection cases filed in courts;
(5) Criminal violations, other than those already filed in court or
those involving criminal tax fraud.
B.
Judicial Remedies
II.
After Payment
A.
Claim for Tax Refund or Tax Credit

A Tax Refund is a written claim for the payment of cash for taxes
erroneously or illegally paid by the taxpayer to the government. The
taxpayer asks for restitution of the money paid as tax. The prescriptive
period is 2 years after the payment of the tax or penalty. A Tax Credit is a
remedy in which the government issues a tax credit certificate or tax
credit memo covering the amount determined to be reimbursable can be
applied after proper verification against any sum that may be due and
collectible from the taxpayer. The taxpayer asks that the money so paid
be applied to his existing tax liability. The prescriptive period is 2 years
from the date such credit was allowed (in case credit is wrongfully made).
Grounds for filing a claim for tax refund or tax credit are the
following: (1) tax is collected ERRONEOUSLY or ILLEGALLY; (2) penalty
103
is collected WITHOUT AUTHORITY; (3) sum collected is EXCESSIVE or

in any manner WRONGFULLY COLLECTED.
Requisites of tax refund or tax credit are the following: (1) the
claim must be in WRITING (mandatory); (2) it must be filed with the
Commissioner within 2 years after the payment of tax or penalty; (3) the
taxpayer must show PROOF OF PAYMENT.
Recovery of tax erroneously or illegally collected (Sec. 229
NIRC): No suit or proceeding shall be maintained in any court for the
recovery of any national internal revenue tax UNTIL a claim for refund or
credit has been filed with the Commissioner; but the suit or proceeding
may be maintained whether or not such tax, penalty or sum has been
paid under protest or duress. Even without a written claim, the CIR may
refund or credit tax where on the face of the return upon which payment
was made, such payment appears to have been erroneously paid.
Rule on Commencement of Two (2) Year Period:
(1) Commissioner vs. Victorias Milling, G.R. No. L-24108, January
31, 1968;tax sought to be refunded is illegally or erroneously
collected from the date the tax was paid.
Sec. 306 and 309 of NIRC were intended to govern all
kinds of refunds of internal revenue taxes those
taxes imposed and collected pursuant to the NIRC.
Thus, this Court stated that "this provision" referring to
Sec. 306, "which is mandatory, is not subject to
qualification, and hence, it applies regardless of the
conditions under which payment has been made." And
to hold that the instant claim for refund of a specific
tax, an internal revenue tax imposed in Sec. 142 of
NIRC, is beyond the scope of Sec. 306 and309 as to
thwart the aforesaid intention and spirit underlying
said provisions.
x x xx x xx x x
. . . The intention is clear that refunds of internal
revenue taxes are generally governed by Sec.306 and
309 of the Tax Code. Since in those cases the tax
sought to be refunded was collected legally, the

running of the 2-year prescriptive period provided for
in Sec. 306 should commence, not from the date the
tax was paid, but from the happening of the
supervening cause which entitled the taxpayer to a tax
refund. And the claim for refund should be filed with
the CIR, and the subsequent appeal to the CTA must
be instituted, within the said 2-year period.
x x xx x xx x x
In fine, when the tax sought to be refunded is illegally
or erroneously collected, the period of prescription
starts from the date the tax was paid; but when the tax
is legally collected, the prescriptive period commences
to run from the date of occurrence of the supervening
cause which gave rise to the right of refund. The ruling
in Muller & Phipps is accordingly modified.
It is not disputed that the oils and fuels involved in this
case were used during the period from June 1952 to
December1955; that the claim for refund was filed on
December 1957; and that the appeal to the Court CTA
was instituted only on February 1962. The taxpayer's
claim for refund with the BIR of December 1957 is
within 2 years from December1955 the last month
of the period during which the fuels and oils were
used. The appeal to the CTA however, was instituted
more than 6 years. The SC has repeatedly held that
the claim for refund with the BIR and the subsequent
appeal to the CTA must be filed within the 2-year
period. "If, however, the Collector takes time in
deciding the claim, and the period of 2 years is about
to end, the suit or proceeding must be started in the
CTA before the end of the 2-year period without
awaiting the decision of the Collector." In the light of
the above quoted ruling, the SC finds that the right of
Victorias Milling to claim refund of P2,817.08 has
prescribed.CIR v. VICTORIAS MILLING CO., & CTA
JAN. 03, 1968 GR. L-24108
104
(2) Collector vs. Prieto, G.R. No. L-11976, August 29, 1961;tax is paid
only in installments or only in part from the date the last or final
installment or payment.
(3) Union Garment vs. Collector, CTA Case No. 416, November 17,
1958; taxpayer merely made a deposit counted from the
conversion of the deposit to payment.
(4) Gibbs vs. Commissioner, G.R. No. L-17406, November 29, 1965;
tax has been withheld from source counted from the date it falls
due at the end of the taxable year.
(5) ACCRA Investments vs. CA, G.R. No. 96322, December 20, 1991;
end of taxably year vs. date of the filing of the final adjusted return
from the date when the final adjusted return was filed.
(6) Commissioner vs. TMX Sales, G.R. No. 83736, January 15, 1992;
date when quarterly income tax was paid vs. date when final adjusted
return was filed from the date when final adjusted return was filed.
(7) Commissioner vs. CA, G.R. No. 117254, January 21, 1999; date
when the final adjustment return was actually filed vs. last day when
the adjustment return could still be filed from the date the final
adjustment return was actually filed.
(8) Commissioner vs. Don Pedro Central Azucarera, G.R. No. L28467, February 28, 1973;tax was not erroneously or illegally paid
but the taxpayer became entitled to refund because of supervening
circumstances from the date the taxpayer becomes entitled to
refund and not from the date of payment.
QUESTION: Does the filing of the claim for refund or credit suspend the
running of the 2-year prescriptive period?
ANSWER: No, hence, the taxpayer should not wait for the decision of the
CIR. Both the claim for refund and subsequent appeal must be filed within
the 2-year period.
QUESTION: When is there waiver of the prescription in an action for
refund?
ANSWER: If the government failed to plead prescription in a motion to
dismiss or as a defence in its answer to the petition for review. Exception:
taxpayer amends his petition for review alleging therein a new cause of
action and the government pleads prescription in his answer to the
amended petition for review.
105

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CHAPTER 1: TAXATION IN GENERAL

Marginal tax rate

Marginal tax rate rises as

Some Taxation related terms

May also result from use of aggressive tax strategies by

Ex. When a product is taxed at

Violates the uniformity and neutr

EXCEPTION TO EXCEPTION: if grantee is a political subdivision or

Primary purpose for legislature in adopting measures is to generate funds

Government violation of non-aggression principletaxation wrongfully presumes that

1 The most strict right or law.

Purposes and effect of taxation(Six [6] Rs)

Ex: Imposition of Pigovian Tax

Discriminatory or retaliatory duty.

RESUSCITATE ECONOMY tax may be imposed as a first aid measure to resuscitate an

REPRESENTATIONno taxation without representation; no taxes should be imposed on

An enforced contributiondoes not depend on the will or acquiescence of the taxpayer.

in its range, acknowledging in its very nature no limits, so that

It is not aIt contract

Power is not granted in the Constitution.

Grant of exemption is an exercise of power of taxationpower to tax includes

Sound Tax System (ECCEPSD)

2 Determination of persons, property or exercises to be taxed, amount to be

Basic principles of Sound Tax System(FAT).

Fiscal adequacysources of revenues must be adequate to meet government expenditures

Taxes are not subject to compensationTaxes cannot be offset from government

EXCEPTION: Domingo vs. Garlitos

Rule on non-imprisonment for non-payment of debts is not applicable.

There can be no off-setting; collection of tax cannot avail the results of a

ART 1279. In order that compensation may be proper, it is

6 Payment to one of what is not due to him.

DOCTRINE OF EQUITABLE RECOUPMENT: grants a right to a creditor to recover

It is applicable in cases to a taxpayer who erroneously paid a tax and is later

Taxes assessed on all

General, fiscal or revenue

is actually raised or not.

Implies that tax rate progresses as

Special tax is imposed for special public purpose. Money raised

Who bears the burden

Most are flat rate taxes. Sales, excise and

Other source of revenue/funds and impositions

PURPOSE: generate revenue; regulation is incidental. It is not

SALES TAX: indirect consumption tax

Normally paid when business on operation.

Special assessmentexaction on property levied in accordance with

Personal liability of taxpayer.

Not and cannot be made a person

Based on necessity and partially on benefits derived.

Based solely on benefits derived.

Of special application only as to p

Refusal of citizen to pay may not be sanctioned because it would

Refusal to pay may hold sanction

Finespaid in case of violation of law.

Penaltypunitive sanction for compelling timely action.

Imposed to regulate and rectify a

Amount is determined by State.

Amount based on cost of propertyMoney

May be imposed by either government or a private individual or

Only government may impose.

Tariff/customs dutyimpost upon goods transported from one political

Subsidygrant of money in aid of a private enterprise deemed to promote

Compromise penaltyamount imposed in case of a compromise involving

Revenuemoney which comes to a person or entity from an source or