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Collect unpaid taxes of POGOs first before taxing online sellers —Hontiveros


Senator Risa Hontiveros took up the cudgels for online sellers Thursday as she urged the government to collect first the unpaid taxes of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

"Imbes na online sellers, baka pwedeng singilin muna ang mga POGO na may P50 billion in unpaid taxes?" Hontiveros said in a statement.

"Hindi 'yung dagdag-perwisyo pa sa sarili nating mga kababayan na kaunti na nga lang ang kita para pandagdag-gastos sa pamilya nila," she added.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 60-2020 states that "all persons doing business and earning income in any manner or form, specifically those who are into digital transactions through the use of any electronic platforms and media, and other digital means," shall register to ensure that they are tax compliant.

Online sales boomed amid the pandemic when several establishments including malls and restaurants, as well as mass transportation, are operating in limited capacities.

Last month, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the government is looking at proposals to impose taxes on online sales and streaming services.

The POGOs, meanwhile, were allowed to partially reopen in May, ahead of other local industries in the country.

Hontiveros said the government should prioritize the welfare of Filipinos.

"Bakit ba ang luwag natin sa POGO pero ang lupit sa mga Pilipino? Kahit na may 50B pesos unpaid taxes sila, at kahit na di essential, pinayagan pa ring mag-operate sa ilalim ng ECQ. Mayroon din silang mass testing, at tayo wala," she said.

“Pwede bang kapakanan ng mga Pinoy muna?” she added.

Responding to Hontiveros’ claims, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the government has been collecting unpaid taxes of POGOs.

“Sinisingil po natin Senator Hontiveros. Hindi po natin sila pinalulusot. Hindi po sila pupuwedeng magbukas hangga’t hindi sila nagbabayad ng kanilang mga buwis,” he said in a televised briefing.

Roque also said the government is tapping all sources of funds in order to support the needs of Filipinos affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. — with Virgil Lopez/AOL/RSJ, GMA News


 

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