BIR asked to extend deadline for ITR filing

MANILA, Philippines – Sen. Francis Tolentino has asked the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to extend the April 15 deadline for the filing of income tax return (ITR) in Metro Manila and other affected areas amid a surge in new coronavirus disease cases.

Tolentino said he had written to BIR Commissioner Caesar Dulay to relay his request.

“This is to offer them relief as they will be reeling from the health, mobility and economic challenges during these times, which will affect their ability to file their returns and pay their taxes,” he said.

The outbreak could cause the economy to lose $1.939 billion in gross domestic product, and up to 252,000 jobs, Tolentino said, citing a recent report of the Asian Development Bank.

“An extension would be a sigh of relief that could spell a huge difference to struggling individuals and businesses,” he said.

—Leila B. Salaverria