The Bureau of Internal Revenue-Davao Region (BIR-11) launched CHAT (Counsel, Help, Assist Taxpayers) Day here on Monday, an initiative offering approachable and solution-oriented interactions through friendly compliance verification.

BIR‑11 Regional Director Narciso Laguerta said the nationwide program aims to bring services closer to the public, ensuring compliance verification is conducted with professionalism, courtesy and guidance, rather than intimidation.

“We call this a friendly tax compliance verification drive. We will simply review compliance and conduct interviews with taxpayers. We hope for their cooperation,” Laguerta explained in an interview.

During CHAT Day, revenue officers provide on-the-spot counseling on tax compliance requirements and assist taxpayers in understanding registration, filing, and payment procedures.

Taxpayers were guided on record-keeping and invoicing requirements, with emphasis on promoting voluntary compliance through education and support.

Laguerta stressed that CHAT gives taxpayers the opportunity to be informed of requirements without fear of penalties.

“This CHAT is designed to help. We provide counseling on what needs to be complied with and there are no penalties,” he said.

In cases where unregistered businesses are found, taxpayers will be advised to register. Depending on circumstances, penalties may not be imposed.

“If you see BIR personnel visiting your establishments, do not fear. We are simply checking compliance. Our personnel will be courteous, and their main goal is to help,” Laguerta assured.

On Monday, the BIR team led by Laguerta visited a hardware company on Cabaguio Avenue to ensure compliance.

Dave Solana, acting manager of the establishment, welcomed the initiative.

“Their approach was good and they asked permission before coming in. It’s also a good way to check if the establishment is legally operating and has complied with the necessary documents,” he said. (PNA)