BIR files tax evasion case vs. Harry Roque, wife Mylah, associate

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on Monday filed a criminal complaint against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, his wife Mylah, and Percival Sazon Ortega for alleged tax evasion involving Biancham Holdings and Trading, Inc.

In a statement, BIR said the respondents did not file the required tax returns and pay the taxes due on the transfer of shares and the increase in authorized capital stock.

“The total estimated tax deficiency amounts to more than P3.35 million, inclusive of surcharges and interest,” BIR said.

It added that it found probable cause to charge the respondents with willful attempt to evade tax under Section 254 and failure to file tax returns under Section 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997.

To recall, Roque accused Congress of “power tripping” following contempt and arrest orders issued against him due to his alleged link to illegal operations of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO).

This came after Roque initially agreed to submit documents that would explain the increase in his assets under his family’s Biancham Holdings and Trading from P125,000 in 2014, P3.125 million in 2015 and P67.7 million in 2018.

Under Section 254 of the Tax Code, tax evasion is punishable by a fine of P500,000 to P10 million and imprisonment of 6 to 10 years.

Meanwhile, those violating Section 255 may face fines and up to 10 years of imprisonment, in addition to payment of the unpaid taxes.

GMA News Online is seeking comment from Roque and other respondents on the matter. —LDF, GMA News