The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Swiss Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (SwissCham) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen public-private collaboration on tax administration, digital transformation, and taxpayer service.

In a statement Tuesday, the BIR said the MOU was signed following a roundtable discussion with SwissCham on June 24.

The MOU aims to establish a general framework of cooperation to strengthen engagement and facilitate collaboration on tax policy and administration through regular dialogue, knowledge sharing, technical exchanges, assistance in the development and enhancement of BIR systems, and discussions on revenue and tax-related developments.

“We have made significant gains, but digital transformation remains one of the Bureau’s biggest priorities moving forward. Through the memorandum of understanding, we hope to sustain that cooperation through regular dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration,” BIR Commissioner Charlito Mendoza said during the discussion.

SwissCham Chairperson Felix Fiechter, meanwhile, acknowledged the BIR’s reforms, adding the chamber vows to remain an active partner in future discussions on tax reforms.

Swiss Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Hans-Christian Baumann also welcomed the bureau’s ongoing reforms, including initiatives to strengthen digitalization, improve taxpayer services, enhance accountability, and modernize audit processes.

He underscored the importance of sustained engagement between government and the private sector as reforms move from policy to implementation.

“As reforms move from policy to implementation, continued engagement with stakeholders is key. Effective reform is not only about introducing new systems and procedures, it is also about ensuring that their measures are practical, predictable, and responsive to the realities faced by taxpayers and especially by businesses,” Baumann said. (PNA)