Law Summary
Jurisdiction and Limitations on Issuance of Injunctions and TROs
- Section 218 of the Tax Code clearly prohibits courts other than the CTA from issuing injunctions or temporary restraining orders (TRO) against BIR tax collections.
- Only the CTA has the judicial authority to suspend tax collection if it determines that enforcement jeopardizes government or taxpayer interests.
- When suspending collection, the CTA may require taxpayers to deposit the assessed amount or post a surety bond not exceeding twice the amount claimed.
- Any TRO or injunction issued by courts other than the CTA is invalid and subject to annulment and cancellation.
- BIR legal officers are mandated to promptly seek annulment of unauthorized TROs and initiate administrative cases against erring judges.
- Notable jurisprudence reinforcing this rule includes Zuno vs. Judge Cabredo and Republic vs. Judge Caguioa cases.
Procedures on Warrants of Distraint, Garnishment, Levy, and Tax Liens
- After the Commissioner of Internal Revenue issues a final decision on a disputed assessment, or the CTA upholds such decision, the BIR shall immediately issue and serve warrants of distraint, garnishment, and levy.
- These enforcement actions follow guidelines established in Revenue Memorandum Order No. 39-2007 and related BIR issuances.
- Section 206 authorizes the BIR to place constructive distraint on property of delinquent taxpayers or those intending to evade tax collection by:
- Retiring from business subject to tax.
- Leaving the Philippines.
- Removing property from the country.
- Hiding or concealing property.
- Obstructing tax collection proceedings.
Immediate Effectivity and Implementation
- The Revenue Memorandum Order takes effect immediately as of May 4, 2010.
- It mandates strict compliance with the rules regarding injunctions and tax collection enforcement to protect government revenue interests.
- The Commissioner of Internal Revenue enforces this order to uphold tax laws and prevent unauthorized judicial interference in tax collection processes.