BIR files P3.6-M tax raps vs Solenn

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) yesterday filed with the Department of Justice a P3.6-million tax evasion case against TV host Solenn Heusaff and her accountant.

In a statement, the BIR said Heusaff, a GMA-7 talent, singer and also endorser for various products, failed to supply correct and accurate information in her tax returns in 2011 when she declared a gross income of only P6.73 million and a taxable income of only P3.3 million.

An investigation conducted by the BIR showed that Heusaff earned P13.38 million in 2011 based on the declarations made by business entities that engaged her services including GMA-7, San Miguel Brewery, Ginebra San Miguel, Penshoppe and Tape Inc.

“Heusaff’s under-declaration is more than 30 percent and is prima facie evidence of fraud,” the BIR said.

The BIR computed Heusaff’s deficiency tax liability at P3.6 million, including surcharge and interest.

According to the BIR, Heusaff, who resides in the upscale Forbes Park subdivision, violated sections 254 and 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code.

She faces a fine of P30,000 to P100,000 and imprisonment of two to four years for tax evasion.

The BIR likewise filed charges against Heusaff’s accountant, Teofilo Magno Jr., for making false entries in his client’s audited financial statement.