Cory Aquino Administration (1986-1992)

The Cory Aquino Administration

in the Philippines focused on improving tax administration. They launched
"Operation: Walang Lagay" to ensure efficient and honest tax collection. In 1987,
the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) was reorganized, creating two functional
groups. The introduction of the Value-added tax (VAT) in 1988 aimed to simplify tax
administration and promote compliance. The BIR's computerization needs changed in
1988 with the abolition of the Revenue Information Systems Services Inc. (RISSI).
In 1989, Commissioner Jose Ong introduced the "Tax Administration Program," which
included measures like the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and the New Payment
Control System to enhance tax collection and simplify tax administration.

Fidel V. Ramos Administration (1992-1998)

During the Ramos Administration , the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) underwent
significant changes. Liwayway VinzonsChato became the first female BIR Commissioner
in 1993, and the organization initiated the Action-Centered Transformation Program
(ACTS) to align with its vision and mission. In 1994, the Tax Computerization
Project (TCP) was launched to modernize the tax system. In 1997, Executive Order
No. 430 streamlined the BIR further, creating the Legal and Enforcement Group and
introducing several service units to support the implementation of the computerized
Integrated Tax System.

Joseph Estrada's Administration (1998-2001)

During Estrada's administration, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) saw changes
in leadership and significant reform measures. Beethoven Rualo, a Deputy
Commissioner, became the BIR Commissioner and prioritized measures to enhance
voluntary compliance and productivity. The introduction of the Economic Recovery
Assistance Payment (ERAP) Program provided immunity to taxpayers who paid 20% more
than their 1997 tax amounts. A consumer education program, "Humingi ng Resibo,
Manalo ng Libo Libo," encouraged requesting sales invoices and receipts. The BIR
also established the Large Taxpayers Monitoring System. In the new millennium, a
new BIR Commissioner, Dakila Fonacier, focused on measures such as tax
computerization, electronic stamp tax metering, and a Compromise Settlement Program
to improve taxpayer compliance and address outstanding accounts receivable and
disputed assessments.

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's administration (2001-2010)

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) underwent significant changes. Atty. René G.
Bañez, a former Deputy Commissioner, became the new BIR Commissioner with a focus
on making the agency more taxpayer-focused. Key initiatives included simplifying
the tax system, reengineering tax processes for efficiency, restructuring the BIR
for flexibility, and redesigning human resource policies. A Taxpayer Feedback
Mechanism was introduced, allowing complaints about BIR employees and non-compliant
taxpayers. The "Handang Maglingkod" Project recognized effective taxpayer service.
When Commissioner Esquivias resigned, Joel L. Tan-Torres assumed the role and
initiated public awareness campaigns and programs to improve revenue collections.
The BIR also established partnerships with various agencies to enhance tax
administration.

Benigno Aquino III Administration (2010-2016)

During Benigno Aquino III's administration (2010-2016), Atty. Kim S. Jacinto-

Henares, a former BIR Deputy Commissioner, became the new Commissioner of Internal
Revenue. Her early focus was on pursuing tax evasion cases as part of the
administration's commitments, particularly following President Aquino's SONA
pronouncements.

Rodrigo Duterte administration (2016-2022)

The TRAIN Law was enacted in December 2017, offering income tax exemptions for
individuals earning up to 250,000 pesos annually. However, to compensate for the
lost revenue, the law resulted in higher prices for petroleum products and specific
consumer goods containing sweeteners, excluding natural fruit juices and milk from
these price increases.