The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has reminded all 2025 election candidates and political parties—including party-list groups—of their tax obligations after the polls.
In a recent TV interview, BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said candidates must issue BIR-registered receipts for all campaign contributions, whether in cash or in kind. He also stressed the need to withhold 5% tax when paying suppliers.
They must also track all expenses and submit a Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE), not just to the Commission on Elections but to the BIR as well.
The BIR chief noted that candidates may keep unspent campaign funds—but must pay income tax on any excess.
“Pagka sobra naman ang natanggap nila na mga contributions sa mga ginastos nila, kinakailangan nilang bayaran ang income tax patungkol dito sa sobrang natanggap nila,” according to him.
Non-compliance could lead to tax evasion charges, and in some cases, even disqualification from office.IMT
