Hontiveros asks gov’t go after tax-evading POGOs instead of online sellers: P50B ang utang nila!

By JOHN CARLO M. CAHINHINAN

Senator Risa Hontiveros has scored the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) over its decision to go after unregistered online sellers and other merchants on various digital platforms.

In a statement, Hontiveros stressed that instead of going after these online sellers, the government should instead go after the unpaid tax liabilities of off-shore gaming hubs under the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).

“Imbes na online sellers, baka pwedeng singilin muna ang mga POGO na may 50 billion pesos in unpaid taxes?” said Hontiveros.

The BIR on Thursday has issued Memorandum Circular No. 60-2020, mandating online sellers and other local online businesses to register their activities, as well declare previous transactions and settle their corresponding taxes no later than July 31.

According to Hontiveros, such policy is not appropriate at the moment considering that there online merchant are also striving to earn for their families following the Luzon-lockdown that paralyzed the cash-flow many households, considering the present threat of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Hindi yung dagdag-perwisyo pa sa sarili nating mga kababayan na kaunti na nga lang ang kita para pandagdag-gastos sa pamilya nila,” said Hontiveros.

“Bakit ba ang luwag natin sa POGO pero ang lupit sa mga Pilipino?” she added.

A Senate-led hearing last March 5 on foreign offshore gaming hubs that a number of these companies are yet to settle with government tax obligations amounting to more than P50 billion.

“Kahit na may P50-billion unpaid taxes sila, at kahit na di essential, pinayagan pa ring mag-operate sa ilalim ng ECQ. Mayroon din silang mass testing, at tayo wala,” she said.

Hontiveros said the government now should instead prioritize the welfare of Filipinos rather than imposing new taxes on their small businesses.

“Pwede bang kapakanan ng mga Pinoy muna?”

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)