The Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) recently led a comprehensive walkthrough of the national government’s tax administration systems to support the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in strengthening its own tax governance and improving public service delivery.
This capacity-building initiative was directed by Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto and is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s agenda of enhancing tax collection efficiency of the national government and the Bangsamoro government.
Held at the BIR National Office and Revenue Region No. 8-A Makati City, the walkthrough provided BARMM officials with in-depth exposure to BIR’s core processes and systems, facilitating a deeper understanding of modern tax administration and compliance mechanisms.
Moreover, it is directly aligned with the BARMM’s efforts to draft the Bangsamoro Revenue Code and prepare its Tax Administration Transition Plan, including the establishment of the Bangsamoro Revenue Office (BRO).
“Today’s walkthrough is a critical learning opportunity. It allows us to draw from the experiences of the BIR, identify best practices, and adapt them to the unique context of the BARMM. This is an important step toward operationalizing the BRO, ensuring that it is fully prepared to take on its responsibilities for tax administration,” Chief Financial Management Specialist of the Revenue Policy Development Division of the Bangsamoro Finance Office Atty. Hanamir N. Emblawa said.
The walkthrough also addressed concerns raised during stage one, ensuring that BARMM’s tax administration system is fully aligned with National Government standards and regulations.
“This event signifies a crucial step in strengthening our partnership and fostering a better understanding of tax administration and compliance within the BARMM. As we continue to pursue excellence in public service, it is essential that we work hand in hand to ensure clarity, efficiency, and transparency in our tax processes,” OIC-Deputy Commissioner. Larry M. Barcelo said.
The walkthrough involved a presentation and hands-on session on the various aspects of the tax administration process. Valuable insights into the roles and responsibilities of the BIR’s offices, including critical functions and duties involved in the administration of the Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Documentary Stamp Tax (DST), Estate and Donor’s Tax were also discussed in detail.
“We understand that this transition will take time, and we are working diligently to ensure that it progresses smoothly. This is not just about taking over functions; it is about creating a tax administration that is responsive, seamless with the national, progressive, and, importantly, culturally sensitive, aligned with the values and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people, as mandated by the BOL,” said Atty. Emblawa.
The DOF and BIR were represented by Revenue Operations Group Director Euvimil Nina R. Asuncion; Deputy Commissioners Marissa O. Cabreros, Ma. Rosario Charo E. Curiba, Teresita M. Angeles, and Larry M. Barcelo; Regional Director Renato N. Molina; and Revenue District Officers Renan A. Plata and Abdullah D. Bandrang.
The BARMM was represented by key officials of the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Management, led by Legal and Legislative Liaison Division Chief Rasul M. Salik, Chief Treasury Operations Officer Shahara A. Abo, Chief Financial Management Specialist Hanamir N. Emblawa, and Chief Budget and Management Specialist Billie Juharah T. Ogca.
The initiative is part of the national government’s ongoing collaboration with the BARMM, through the Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board – Tax Study Group (IFPB-TSG), which is crucial for the successful implementation of the region’s fiscal policies pursuant to Republic Act No. 11054, or the Bangsamoro Organic Law.
