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The concept of being secretive is quite ironic. Before something is considered a “secret,” someone must not only conceal something, but another must also know or be wary of the concealment. In fact, some experts would say that the more people desiring that secrets be divulged gives more power to those who know them.

News of the approval of the Tax Amnesty Act as Republic Act No. 11213 came out early morning on Sunday, February 17. It was signed on Feb. 14. The reports also indicated that the President vetoed the provisions on the general tax amnesty.

A tax amnesty is an opportunity to start over with a clean slate. Taxpayers with ongoing audits would consider this an opportunity to settle deficiency taxes more efficiently. An audit, even for taxpayers who are compliant, is costly and stressful. To quantify the degree of relief on offer, some tax accountants and managers have computed the savings that can be realized and even prepared position papers to argue the benefits of availing of a tax amnesty, noting that they outweigh the costs.

The comprehensive tax reform program (CTRP) was envisioned to redesign the Philippine tax system to be simpler, fairer and more efficient. Aligned with the said objectives, the first package of the CTRP or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law brought many changes on the overall tax compliance procedures. Some of these changes are the streamlined filing of tax returns, adjustments to tax payment deadlines, and revision of tax rates, the implementation of which requires the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to update its system and issue revised tax returns.

In two days’ time, we are about to end the first month of the year. Time really flies so fast, especially when we are too preoccupied with loads of tasks that need to be done. It may be a bit too late now for some, but making a last minute run-down of our tax compliance to-do-list for January should not be given any less attention, even at this point in time. So waste not a single second, go grab that journal and desk calendar, and let us start ticking off the remaining items on your list.

As interest in virtual currencies (VCs), blockchain technology, and initial coin offerings (ICOs) continue to heat up, governments around the world are evaluating the benefits and potential risks of these innovations while considering the regulatory issues surrounding them.

Nothing is forever, except change. The wise words of Buddha proclaim the undeniable truth that the only thing constant is change. Life is a process of becoming; thus, we should always keep ourselves abreast with the changing times. After all, progress is impossible without changing the status quo.

As we hit the first month of the year, it is time for another round of renewal and compliance. What better way to start the year than to have a clear mind set of what needs to be accomplished.