BIR sees lower tax collection due to DPWH fiasco

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) reported that its tax collections have declined, attributing the slowdown to the lingering issues surrounding the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) infrastructure projects.

- By MARCO LUIS BEECH

“Tm not sure if it can be attributed to the flood control issues. But there was definitely a slower collection because of the issue, because of the DPWH,” BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. told reporters.

Data from the Bureau of the Treasury showed that BIR’s revenue increased by 114 percent to P2.14 trillion from January to August. The revenue target for the agency this year was adjusted slightly to P3.22 trillion from P3.23 trillion.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto confirmed that the BIR’s collections have declined, cautioning that the continued downturn in revenues could serve as an early warning of slower economic growth.