BIR Chief Mendoza Presents DARES Reforms, RATE Results at PICPA Tax Conference
Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza presented the agency's DARES reform and legacy agenda during his keynote address at the PICPA Metro Manila Region (MMR) Tax Conference 2026 on September 16, 2026. The conference carried the theme "Beyond Compliance: Tax Strategy, Governance, and Growth," and brought together CPAs, tax practitioners, finance executives, business leaders, and government representatives to discuss emerging tax developments, strategic tax management, governance, and growth. Among the key reforms Mendoza outlined under DARES is the Taxpayer Portal, which is currently being rolled out to the Large Taxpayers Service, with regional rollout set for October. He also cited the new audit program, which incorporates stakeholder feedback and strengthens accountability measures, and said the BIR is moving forward with the implementation of the Electronic Invoicing System (EIS), for which he sought the continued cooperation of stakeholders. During his keynote, Commissioner Mendoza said: "This is something that we should get off the ground. Kinakailangan talagang ma-implement na natin ito and we really need your help and assistance on this."
On enforcement, Mendoza highlighted the Bureau's Run After Tax Evaders (RATE) Program, under which 295 tax evasion cases had been filed from January to July, representing around ₱34 billion in tax exposure. He also pointed to the BIR's "Assistance First to Comply, Enforcement Only When Necessary" approach. At the same time, he encouraged accountants and tax practitioners to help spread awareness of the One-Time Abatement Program for Micro Taxpayers, and to encourage qualified entrepreneurs to avail themselves of the program as a pathway to resolving long-standing tax liabilities and returning to compliance.
On digital transformation and innovation, the Commissioner discussed Terry, an AI-powered tax research assistant that the BIR is still developing. The tool is being built to cross-reference, retrieve, and analyze BIR revenue issuances dating back to 1905. It will initially undergo stress testing within the Bureau, with the potential to make it accessible to external stakeholders. He also highlighted the BIR's partnership with Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) on data science initiatives, and further emphasized the role of taxpayer and tax professional feedback in improving the Bureau's reforms. In closing, Mendoza said: "Beyond compliance is partnership—our partnership with you, our stakeholders. The BIR we are building now is modern, accountable, taxpayer-centered, and capable of delivering real impact. That is the essence of our commitment: Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo."
Source: National PIO/PCO, Bureau of Internal Revenue press release