The Senate building at the GSIS Complex in Pasay City. (Photo by LYN RILLON / Philippine Daily Inquirer)
MANILA, Philippines — Senators have unanimously approved on the third reading a bill that seeks to create an independent body that will protect taxpayers’ rights.
Senate Bill No. 1806, also known as the Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights and Obligations Act, was approved on the third and final reading in a plenary session on Monday.
It received 22 affirmative and zero negative votes.
The measure pushes for creating an independent office to “protect the rights of taxpayers.” The independent body will be called the Office of the National Taxpayer Advocate (Onta).
“The Onta is hereby created to promote tax compliance and assist taxpayers. The Onta shall be an independent and autonomous office attached to the Department of Justice for purposes of policy and program coordination,” the proposal reads.
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