While we understand that this must feel like an imposition to those affected, the BIR’s order is both fair and entirely appropriate. Those public complaints, which were ill-advisedly repeated by at least one senator, are based entirely on sentiment rather than logic. Protesters of the BIR directive have also engaged in a considerable amount of what-aboutism, accusing the tax bureau of persecuting small entrepreneurs while failing to pursue large tax evaders such as Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). Here are a couple of inconvenient facts: Contrary to popular perceptions, online businesses have never been exempted from proper business registration or tax reporting requirements. But that does not mean it should simply overlook small businesses for sentimental reasons.

Source: Manila Times June 12, 2020 16:07 UTC