BIR registration made easier for labor groups

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has eased the registration requirements for labor organizations following complaints some groups are not being allowed to be enrolled in the agency.

In a memoramdum circular, the BIR has clarified the documentary requirements for the registration of labor organizations, associations, or group of unions or workers.

The tax bureau said labor organizations now need only to present their certificate of registration with the Department of Labor and Employment to be able to register with the BIR.

The BIR explained under the Labor Code of the Philippines, the certificate of registration already legitimizes labor organizations.

“It has come to the attention of this office that some Revenue District Offices are not registering labor organization, association or group of union or workers without Securities and Exchange Commission certificate of registration,” BIR said.

“It is informed that the labor organization, association or group of union or workers issued with Department of Labor and Employment certificate of registration acquires legal personality pursuant to the Labor Code of the Philippines, as amended,” the BIR said.

“Hence, this circular is being issued to correct and provide clarifications on the list of documentary requirements for the registration of such,” it said.

The memorandum circular will take effect immediately, the BIR said, adding its employees should also bring the new measure to the public’s attention as much as they can.

“All internal revenue officers and employees are hereby enjoined to give this Revenue Memorandum Circular as wide a publicity as possible,” the BIR said.