📘 Reviewer on Introduction to Taxation
🧾 What is Taxation?
Taxation is the inherent power of the state to demand compulsory contributions from individuals and
entities to fund public services and government operations.
🇵🇭 Legal Basis (Philippines)
Article VI, Section 28 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution
National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) governs tax laws
🎯 Objectives of Taxation
1. Revenue – main source of government funds
2. Regulation – controls certain behaviors (e.g., sin taxes)
3. Redistribution – promotes social justice and equality
4. Representation – encourages accountability (linked to the idea of “no taxation without
representation”)
🏛️Basic Taxation Principles
Principle Description
Fiscal Adequacy Sufficient revenue to fund government needs
Equality/Equity Based on ability to pay
Administrative Feasibility Easy to collect and enforce
🧍♂️Who Pays Taxes?
Individuals (citizens and resident aliens)
Corporations and other juridical entities
Self-employed and professionals
Estates and trusts
📂 Types of Taxes (Philippines)
A. As to Authority
Type Example
National Income tax, VAT, Excise tax (BIR)
Local Real property tax, Community tax (LGUs)
B. As to Subject/Person
Type Description
Personal/Direct Based on income/capacity (e.g., income tax)
Indirect Shifted to others (e.g., VAT, excise)
C. As to Purpose
Type Description
Fiscal For government revenue
Regulatory To control behavior (e.g., cigarette taxes)
💸 Common Taxes in the Philippines
Tax Type Who Pays Rate/Info
Income Tax Individuals & corporations Graduated or fixed
Value Added Tax (VAT) Businesses selling goods/services 12% on gross sales
Percentage Tax Small businesses (non-VAT) 3% (can change with laws)
Excise Tax On specific goods (e.g., alcohol, fuel) Per unit or % basis
Withholding Tax Collected at source (e.g., salary) Final or creditable
Real Property Tax Real estate owners Based on assessed value
📅 Important Filing Dates (PH)
Tax Type Deadline
Income Tax Return (ITR) April 15 (annually)
Tax Type Deadline
VAT returns Monthly/Quarterly
Withholding Tax Monthly/Quarterly
🧠 Quick Tips
BIR = Bureau of Internal Revenue (national tax agency)
LGU = Local Government Unit (collects local taxes)
Tax evasion = illegal, Tax avoidance = legal
Keep receipts and file on time to avoid penalties
📝 Practice Questions
1. What is the main purpose of taxation?
2. Differentiate between direct and indirect taxes.
3. What are the three basic principles of a sound tax system?
4. Give three examples of national taxes and who collects them.