BIR tells public: Use online system

CEBU, Philippines — In order to alleviate the problem of the proliferation of counterfeit TIN identification cards (IDs), the Bureau of Internal Revenue in Central Visayas (BIR-7) is urging the public to utilize the agency’s online registration system.

BIR-7 Legal Division Officer, lawyer Isaac Darcera III said that in the convenience of their homes, taxpayers can now register and obtain a TIN number online, or update personal information, through the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS).

The ORUS is in line with BIR Commissioner Romeo "Jun" Lumagui Jr.’s vision to pursue digital innovation to improve the delivery of taxpayer service.

Apart from providing convenience, Darcera said that the ORUS website, https://orus.bir.gov.ph/home, aims to avoid the risk of scams or for taxpayers to purchase counterfeit BIR TIN cards.

The digital TIN ID is a recognized government-issued identification that taxpayers can use for transactions with government agencies, with their employers, banks, and other institutions.

The digital TIN ID’s verification of authenticity can also be done online by scanning the quick response (QR) code on the ID using their mobile phones or devices.

Darcera also mentioned that this offers a convenient option for corporations or cooperatives, especially those managing a large number of employees.

On the other hand, Darcera admitted that the BIR is currently facing a challenge wherein some employers exploit the system by selling the TIN numbers they have obtained.

Instead of utilizing them for their members, Darcera said they sell the TIN numbers to other people. But Darcera said that while these TINs are valid since they come from the legitimate BIR system, the BIR can still close them if it's proven that they acquired it illegally.

“We are investigating those bogus employers making it appear those are their employees some of whom are 10,000 to 20,000 employees or members but in fact they are not connected to it and they have not any operation,” said Darcera.

The BIR-7 continues to remind the public that the digital TIN ID is free and not for sale. — (FREEMAN)