By Apipa P. Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region (RR)-16 announced digital innovations aimed at improving taxpayer services and streamlining tax administration processes.
Lawyer Al Philip Agad, the assistant chief of BIR-RR 16 Assessment Division, explained during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on October 8 that these digital initiatives are part of the BIR’s broader strategy to create a more taxpayer-friendly environment and promote compliance.
“Taxpayers can now make transactions with the BIR in the convenience of their own homes,” he emphasized.
Among these platforms are the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS), which allows taxpayers to conveniently register or update their business information online, eliminating the need for physical visits to BIR offices, as well as the Electronic Filing and Payment System (EFPS), which enables taxpayers to file and pay their taxes electronically, reducing both paperwork and processing time.
The BIR has also digitized various tax forms, making them easier for taxpayers to access and complete. On the other hand, the e-ONETT (Electronic One-Time Transaction) system facilitates the processing of one-time transactions, such as those involving the sale and/or donation of real/personal properties, while the chatbot Revie is available to assist taxpayers with common queries and provide information on BIR services.
Revenue District Officer Lawrence T. Cabeltes of Gingoog City highlighted the positive impact of the BIR’s digital services, noting a significant reduction in the number of taxpayers queuing at the Gingoog City office due to the ORUS.
He pointed to the island of Camiguin as an example, explaining that the ORUS now effectively meets the needs of the Camiguin taxpayers under the jurisdiction of the Gingoog City Revenue District.
“The BIR is advancing toward digitalization. In fact, they can simply visit www.bir.gov.ph to access any digital platform related to registration, and the ORUS is fully operational,” he stated.
Tax practitioner Carmen Ku praised the BIR’s digital transformation, highlighting the benefits of the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS).
She noted that this system allows users to update their information and register online, making the process more convenient.
“Digitalization has made it easier for taxpayers and for us, the practitioners, to comply with regulations and disseminate proper information about taxes,” she remarked. (APB/PIA-10)
