BIR investigates Tarlac mayor over tax evasion

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced on Friday that it will investigate Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo and her companies following the Senate's probe into alleged human trafficking and criminal activities linked to offshore gaming operations.

Commissioner Romeo Lumagui ordered a review of the income declared by Guo and her companies to determine if there is any discrepancy with their reported properties and assets, emphasizing full cooperation with the ongoing Senate inquiry.

The BIR stated that it will file criminal cases for tax evasion if the investigation reveals inconsistencies between the income declared and the value of acquired properties, noting that this applies not only to Guo but also to 'conspirators' and other entities involved in the Senate probe.

Documents obtained by Rappler show that in late 2023, the local office of BIR in Tarlac flagged Guo's real estate company and two POGOs for failure to file some tax returns, indicating potential non-compliance with tax regulations.

Lumagui assured the public on Friday that the BIR is monitoring the investigation in the Senate and welcomes all informants who could provide necessary documents and evidence.