PASAY CITY—The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee officially concluded its investigation into the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) this Tuesday, February 10, shifting its focus to a sweeping overhaul of the agency's audit protocols. 

The inquiry was originally sparked by a wave of taxpayer complaints detailing systemic corruption and "money-making schemes" orchestrated by revenue officers. 

Senators reviewed the BIR’s latest policy changes, which are specifically designed to strip away the unchecked power previously associated with the issuance of Letters of Authority (LOAs) and mission orders.

The committee emphasized that these reforms are not just administrative tweaks but are essential to restoring the public’s trust and protecting the national economy. 

Senate Blue Ribbon Vice Chairman and Senator Erwin Tulfo lauded the tax reforms but also warned that for the overhaul to be consistent and successful in its implementation.

“To the commissioner, these reforms are really wonderful way forward pero alam niyo naman ho uso sa atin ang ningas kugon…so, expect po dito po sa bagong pamunuan ng Bureau of Internal Revenue that we will continue to monitor.” The senator said.

Meanwhile, Senate Blue Ribbon Chairman Senator Panfilo Lacson ended the hearing with a bold warning to the BIR officials about the consequences they may face if they involve themselves in illegal schemes in the bureau.

“As a parting shot, before you start thinking something foolish, just imagine yourself wearing a yellow uniform na mayroong malaking PDL (Person Deprived of Liberty).” Senator Lacson said.

With the probe now closed, the pressure remains on the BIR to prove that these new safeguards will permanently end the era of audit abuse and help stabilize the country’s revenue streams.

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