The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has filed a P2.23-billion tax evasion case against offshore gaming operator Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc. over alleged income underdeclaration and unpaid taxes.
The BIR filed the case with the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Aug. 6 as part of its intensified campaign against tax evasion, the agency said Thursday.
An investigation covering 2021 to 2023 found that Hongsheng allegedly underdeclared its income, misreported its value-added tax (VAT) liabilities and failed to remit required withholding taxes for its foreign employees.
The BIR said records obtained from various government agencies showed significant discrepancies between the company’s declared revenues and information contained in official records.
The discrepancies resulted in alleged deficiency income tax, VAT and final withholding tax liabilities, according to the bureau.
BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza said the agency would continue pursuing businesses that fail to comply with tax laws.
“Honest taxpayers deserve a level playing field. No business should be able to operate in the Philippines, earn income here, and evade the taxes required by law. The BIR will pursue these cases wherever the evidence leads us,” Mendoza said.
The case forms part of the BIR’s strengthened enforcement efforts against companies suspected of deliberately evading their tax obligations.
Photo courtesy of PhilStar
Comments