TAXATION LA

6. levied for a public purpose.

I.
REQUISITES OF A VAUD TAX
POWER OF TAXATION 1. should be for a public purpose
TAXATION - power by which the 2. the rule of taxation shall be uniform
sovereign through its law-making body 3. that either the person or property
raises revenue to defray the necessary taxed be within the jurisdiction of
expenses of government from among the taxing authority
those who in some measure are 4. that the assessment and collection
privileged to enjoy its benefits and must of certain kinds of taxes guarantees
bear its burdens. against injustice to individuals,
especially by way of notice and
Two Fold Nature of the Power of opportunity for hearing be provided
Taxation 5. the tax must not impinge on the
1. It is an inherent attribute of inherent and Constitutional
sovereignty limitations on the power of taxation
2. It is legislative in character
THEORIES AND BASES OFTAXATION
Extent of Taxing Power 1. Lifeblood Theory
Subject to constitutional and Taxes are what we pay for civilized
inherent restrictions, the power of society. Without taxes, the government
taxation is regarded as comprehensive, would be paralyzed for lack of the
unlimited, plenary and supreme. motive power to activate and operate it.
Hence, despite the natural reluctance to
SCOPE OF LEGISLATIVE TAXING POWER surrender part of one's hard-earned
1. Amount or rate of tax income to the taxing authorities, every
2. Apportionment of the tax person who is able to must contribute
3. Kind of tax his share in the running of the
4. Method of collection government. (CIR v. Algue, Inc.)
5. Purpose/ s of its levy, provided it is
for public purpose 2. Necessity Theory
6. Subject to be taxed, provided it is The power to tax is an attribute of
within its jurisdiction sovereignty emanating from necessity. It
7. Situs of taxation is a necessary burden to preserve the
State's sovereignty and a means to give
TAXES enforced proportional the citizenry an army to resist an
contributions from the persons and aggression, a navy to defend its shores
property levied by the law-making body from invasion, a corps of civil servants to
of the State by virtue of its sovereignty serve, public improvements designed for
in support of government and for public the enjoyment of the citizenry and those
needs. which come within the State's territory,
and facilities and protection which a
CHARACTERISTICS OF T AXES
government is supposed to provide.
(Phil . Guaranty Co. , Inc. v. CIR)
1. forced charge;
2. pecuniary burden payable in money;
3. levied by the legislature; 3. Benefits-Protection I Reciprocity
Theory
4. assessed with some reasonable rule
of apportionment; (see theoretical Taxation is described as a symbiotic
justice) relationship whereby in exchange of the
5. imposed by the State within its benefits and protection that the citizens
jurisdiction; get from the Government, taxes are
paid. (CIR v. Algue, Inc.)
Note: While taxes are intended for persons, property or other privileges to
general benefits, special benefits to be taxed.
taxpayers are not required . The The court's power in taxation is
Government renders no special or limited only to the application and
commensurate benefit to any particular interpretation of the law.
person or property.
Note: The principle of judicial non-
Is THE PowER To TAX THE PowER To DESTROY? interference extends to the
1. "Power to tax is the power to administrative realm.
destroy" (Marshall Dictum) - refers
to the unlimitedness and the degree ASPECTS OF TAXATION

or vigor with which the taxing power 1. Levy or imposition of the tax (tax
may be employed to raise revenue. legislation)
- the financial needs of the State may 2. Enforcement or tax administration
outrun any human calculation, so the (tax administration)
power to meet those needs by taxation
must not be limited even though taxes BASIC PRINCIPLES OF A SOUND TAX SYSTEM (KEY:

become burdensome or confiscatory. FAT)

1. Fiscal Adequacy - sufficiency to
2. "Power to tax is not the power to meet government expenditures and
destroy while the Supreme Court sits" other public needs.
(Holmes Dictum) - the power to tax 2. Administrative Feasibility/
knows no limit except those expressly Convenience - capability of being
stated in the Constitution. effectively enforced.
3. Theoretical Justice - based on the
Marshall and Holmes Dictum Reconciled taxpayer's ability to pay; must be
Although the power to tax is almost progressive. (Ability to Pay Theory)
unlimited, it must not be exercised in an
arbitrary manner. If the abuse is so POLICE EMINENT
great so as to destroy the natural and POWER DOMAIN
fundamental rights of people, it is the 1. Purpose
duty of the judiciary to hold such an act To raise To promote To facilitate
unconstitutional. revenue public the State' s
purpose need of
PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVES OFTAXATION through property for
1. Revenue - basically, the purpose of regulations public use
taxation is to provide funds or 2. Amount of Exaction
No limit Limited to No exaction;
property with which the State the cost of but private
promotes the general welfare and regulation, property is
protection of its citizens. issuance of taken by the
2. Non-Revenue (Key: PR2 EP) the license or State for
a. Promotion of general wet fare surveillance public
purpose
b. Regulation
c. Reduction of social inequality
d. Encourage economic growth
e. Protectionism 3. Benefits Received
No special No direct A direct
PowER OF JUDICIAL REVIEW INTAXATION or direct benefit is benefit results
benefit is received ; a in the form of
As long as the legislature, in
received by healthy just
imposing a tax, does not violate the economic compensation
applicable constitutional limitations or taxpayer; standard of to the
restrictions, it is not within the province merely society is property
of the courts to inquire into the wisdom general attained owner
or policy of the exaction, the motives benefit of
protection
behind it, the amount to be raised or the
 registration fees are regulatory
4. Non-impairment of Contracts exactions and not revenue measures.
Contracts Contracts Contracts may
may not be may be be impaired
impaired impaired
b. The tax imposed on videogram
establishments is not only regulatory but
5. Transfer of Property Riqhts
a revenue measure because the earnings
Taxes paid No transfer Transfer is
become part but only effected in of such establishments have not been
of public restraint in favor of the subject to tax depriving the government
funds its exercise State of an additional source of income. (Tio
6. Scope v. Videogram Regulatory Board, 151
All persons, All persons, Only upon a SCRA 208)
property and property, particular
excises rights and property c. The "coconut levy funds" were
privileges all raised under the state's taxing and
police powers.
SYSTEMS OF T AXATlON The state's concern to make it a
Global System Schedular System strong and secure source not only in the
livelihood of the significant segment of
A system A system employed the population, but also of export
employed where where the income tax
earnings, the sustained growth of which
the tax system treatment varies and
views is made to depend on
is one of the imperatives of the
indifferently the the kind or category economic growth." Ph ilippine Coconut
tax base and of taxable income of Producers Federation , Inc. Cocofed v.
generally treats in the taxpayer. Presidential Commission on Good
common all Government (178 SCRA 236, 252)
categories of
taxable income of CONSTRUCTION OF TAX LAws
the individual. 1. Public purpose is always presumed.
A system which A system which 2. If the law is clear, apply the law in
taxes all itemizes the different
accordance to its plain and simple
categories of incomes and provides
income ex,c ept for varied percentages tenor.
certain passive of taxes, to be 3. A statute will not be construed as
incomes and applied thereto. imposing a tax unless it does so
capital gains. It clearly, expressly and
prescribes a unambiguously.
unitary but 4. In case of doubt, it is construed most
progressive rate strongly agai nst the Government,
for the taxable and liberally in favor of the
aggregate incomes
taxpayer.
and flat rates for
certain passive 5. Provisions of a taxing act are not to
incomes derived be extended by implication.
by individuals. 6. Tax laws operate prospectively
unless the purpose of the legislature
E XAMPLES OF TAXES LEVIED WITH A REGULATORY to give retrospective effect is
PURPOSE, OR COMBINED E XERCISE OF POLICE expressly declared or may be
POWER AND THE POWER OF T AXATION. implied from the language used.
7. Tax laws are special laws and
a. Motor vehicle registration fees prevail over a general law.
are now considered revenue or tax
measures.(Pal v. Edu, G.R No. L-41383, NATURE OFTAX LAws
August 15, 1988) 1. Not political in character
This case reversed the doctrine 2. Civil in nature, not subject to ex
previously held in Republic v. Philippine post facto law prohibitions
Rabbit Bus Lines, Inc., 32 SCRA 211, to 3. Not penal in character
the effect that motor vehicle
TAXES ARE PERSONAL TO THE TAXPAYER b. Indirect Tax - The incidence of
1. A corporation's tax delinquency or liability for the payment of
cannot be enforced against its the tax falls on one person but
stockholders. (Corporate Entity the burden thereof can be
Doctrine) shifted or passed on to another.
Exception: Stockholders may be 3. As to purpose:
held liable for unpaid taxes of a a. General Tax - levied for the
dissolved corporation: general or ordinary purposes of
a. if it appears that the corporate the Government
assets have passed into their b. Special Tax - levied for special
hands or purposes
b. when the stockholders have 4. As to manner of computation:
unpaid subscriptions to the a. Specific Tax - the computation
capital of the corporation of the tax or the rates of the tax
is already provided for by law.
2. Estate taxes are obligations that b. Ad Valorem Tax - tax upon the
must be paid by the executor or value of the article or thing
administrator out of the net assets subject to taxation; the
and cannot be assessed against the intervention of another party is
heirs. needed for the computation of
Exception: If prior to the payment the tax.
of the estate tax due, the properties 5. As to taxing authority:
of the deceased are distributed to a. National Tax - levied by the
the heirs, then the latter is National Government
subsidiary liable for the payment of b. Local Tax - levied by the local
such portion of the estate tax as his government
distributive share bears to the total 6. As to rate:
value of the net estate. (Sec. 9, a. Progressive Tax - rate or
Rev. Regs. No. 2-2003; see CIR vs. amount of tax increases as the
Pineda G. R. No. L-22734. amount of the income or earning
September 15, 1967)) to be taxed increases.
b. Regressive Tax - tax rate
CLASSIFICATION OFTAXES decreases as the amount of
1. As to subject matter: income to be taxed increases.
a. Personal Tax - taxes are of fixed c. Proportionate Tax - based on a
amount upon all persons of a fixed proportion of the value of
certain class within the the property assessed .
jurisdiction without regard to
property, occupation or business IMPOSITIONS NoT STRICTLv CONSIDERED As TAXES
in which they may be engaged. 1. Toll - amount charged for the cost
b. Property Tax - assessed on and maintenance of the property
property of a certain class used.
c. Excise Tax - imposed on the 2. Penalty - punishment for the
exercise of a privilege commission of a crime.
d. Customs Duties - duties charged 3. Compromise Penalty - amount
upon the commodities on their collected in lieu of criminal
being imported into or exported prosecution in cases of tax
from a country. violations.
2. As to burden: 4. Special Assessment - levied only on
a. Direct Tax - both the incidence land based wholly on benefit
of or liability for the payment of accruing thereon as a result of
the tax as well as the impact or improvements or public works
burden of the tax falls on the undertaken by government within
same person. the vicinity.
5. License or Fee regulatory Amount is unlimited Amount is limited
imposition in the exercise of the to the cost of (1)
issuing the license,
police power.
and (2) inspection
6. Margin Fee - exaction designed to and surveillance
stabilize the currency.
7. Debt - a sum of money due upon Normally paid after Normally paid
contract or one which is evidenced the start of a before
by judgment. business commencement of
business
8. Subsidy - a legislative grant of
money in aid of a private enterprise Taxes, being the License fee may be
deemed to promote the public lifeblood of the with or without
welfare. State, cannot be consideration
9. Customs duties and fees - duties surrendered except
charged upon commodities on their for lawful
consideration
being transported into or exported
from a country. Non-payment does Non-payment
10. Revenue - a broad term that not make the makes the business
includes taxes and income from business illegal but illegal
other sources as well. maybe a ground for
11. Impost - in its general sense, it criminal
prosecution
signifies any tax, tribute or duty. In
its limited sense, it means a duty on
TEST IN DETERMINING IF THE IMPOSITION IS A TAX OR A
imported goods and merchandise.
LICENSE FEE
If the purpose is primarily revenue
or if revenue is, at least, one of the real
and substantial purposes, then the
Imposed on persons, Levied only on land exaction is a tax. If the purpose is
and excises regulatory in nature, it is a license.
(PAL v. Edu)
Personal liability Cannot be made a
attaches on the personal liability of
person assessed in the person assessed
case of non- a ment
An obligation Created by contract
im law
Not based on any Based wholly on
special or direct benefit
benefit Due to the May be due to the
government in its government but in
Levied and paid Exceptional both as sovereign capacity its corporate
annuall to time and localit

Exemption granted Exemption does not Payable in money in money,

is applicable (Art. apply. or services
VI, Sec. 28(3) 1987 N.B. If property is
Constitution) exempt from Real Does not draw Draws interest if
Property Tax, it is interest except in stipulated or
also exempt from case of delin uenc ed
S ecial Assessment.
Not assi nable Assi nable

Not subject to Subject to

compensation or compensation or
Based on the power Emanates from
of taxation set-off set-off

To generate Regulatory Non-payment is No imprisonment in

revenue punished by case of non-payment
im risonment Art. Ill, Sec. 20
 oll tax 1987 Constitution Exception: When both obligations are
due and demandable as well as fully
Imposed only by Can be imposed by liquidated and all the requisites for a
ublic authorit rivate individual valid compensation are present,
TEST IN DETERMINING IF THE IMPOSITION IS A TAX OR A compensation takes place by operation
LICENSE FEE of law. (Domingo v. Garlitos)
If the purpose is primarily revenue or
if revenue is, at least, one of the real DocTRINE OF EQUITABLE REcouPMENT NoT
and substantial purposes, then the FOLLOWED IN THE PHILIPPINES
exaction is a tax. If the purpose is A tax presently being assessed
regulatory in nature, it is a license. against a taxpayer which has prescribed
(PAL v. Edu) may not be recouped or set-off against
an overpaid tax the refund of which is
also barred by prescription. It is against
public policy since both parties are
An obligation Created by contract guilty of negligence.
im law

Due to the May be due to the

government in its government but in
Enforced A sum of money for
sovereign capacity its corporate
proportional the use of
contributions from something, a
persons and property consideration which
Payable in money in money, is paid for the use of
or services a property which is
of a public nature;
Does not draw Draws interest if e.. road, brid e
interest except in stipulated or
case of delin uenc ed A demand of A demand of
soverei nt rietorshi
Not assi nable Assi nable
No limit as to the Amount of toll
Not subject to Subject to amount of tax depends upon the
compensation or compensation or cost of construction
set-off set-off or maintenance of
the public
im rovement used
Non-payment is No imprisonment in
punished by case of non-
Imposed only by the May be imposed by:
imprisonment payment (Art. Ill,
State (1 ) Government
except in poll tax Sec. 20 1987 (2) Private
Constitution individuals or
entities
Imposed only by Can be imposed by
ublic authorit rivate individual

COMPENSATION OR SET-OFF
Enforced Sanction imposed as
General Rule: Taxes cannot be the proportional a punishment for
subject of compensation or set-off. contributions from violation of a law
Reasons: persons and or acts deemed
1. lifeblood theory property mJunous; violation
2. taxes are not contractual of tax laws may give
obligation but arise out of duty rise to imposition of
to the government enalt
3. the government and the Intended to raise Designed to regulate
taxpayer are not mutually revenue conduct
creditors and debtors of each
other. (Francia v. /AC) May be imposed May be imposed by:
only by the (1) Government
overnment 2 Private
 individuals will directly promote the welfare of
entities the community in equal measure.

(2) NoN-DELEGABILITY OF THE TAXING PowER

General Rule: The power of taxation is
All embracing term A kind of tax peculiarly and exclusively exercised by
to include various imposed on articles the legislature. (See Scope of
kinds of enforced which are traded Legislative Taxing Power, supra)
contributions upon internationally - refers to tax legislation
persons for the
Exceptions to Non-delegability:
attainment of
ublic ur oses 1. Flexible Tariff Clause: Authority of
the President to fix tariff rates,
TAXPAYERS, SUIT
import and export quotas, tonnage
and wharfage dues, and other duties
A case where the act complained of
or imposts. (Art. VJ, Sec.28(2), 1987
directly involves the illegal disbursement
Constitution)
of public funds derive from taxation
2. Power of local government units to
(Justice Melo, dissenting in Kilosbayan,
Inc vs Guingona, Jr.) levy taxes, fees, and charges. (Art.
X, Sec. 5, 1987 Constitution)
TAXPAYERS AND PusL1c OFFCIALS HAVE Locus 3. Delegation to administrative
agencies for implementation and
STAND/
REQUISITES FOR TAXPAYERS' SuIT
collect ion.
merely refers to tax administration
a. The tax money is being
or implementation
extracted and spent in violation of
specific constitutional protections
against abuses of legislative power. (3) SITUS OR TERRITORIALITY OF TAXATION

b. That public money is being The power to tax is limited only to

deflected to any improper purpose persons, property or businesses within
(Pascual vs Secretary of Public the jurisdiction or terri tory of the taxing
Works) power.
c. That the petitioner seeks to
restrain respondents from wasting FACTORS THAT DETERMINE THE S1Tus:

public funds through the enforcement a. Kind or classification of the tax

of an invalid or unconstitutional law being levied
b. Situs of the thing or property
LIMITATIONS ON THE TAXING taxed
c. Citizenship of the taxpayer
POWER d. Residence of the taxpayer
e. Source of the i ncome taxed
A. SPINE)
INHERENT L IMITATIONS (KEY:
f . Situs of the excise, privilege,
1. Territoriality or Situs of taxation business or occupation being taxed
2. Public purpose of taxes
3. International comity APPLICATION OF SITUS OF TAXATION
4. Non-delegability of the taxing power
Kind of Tax Situs
5. Tax Exemption of the government
Personal or Residence or
( 1) TESTS IN DETERMINING PusLlc PURPOSE Community tax domicile of the
A. Duty Test - whether the thing to be taxpayer
furthered by the appropriation of
public revenue is something, which Real property tax Location of property
is the duty of the State, as a (Lex rei sitae)
government, to provide.
Personal property -tangible: where it
s. Promotion of General Welfare Test tax is physically located
or permanently kept
- whether the proceeds of the tax (Lex rei sitae)
-intan~ible: subject
 to Sec. 104 of the (4) shares, oblfgations or bonds
NIRC and the issued by any foreign corporation
principle of mobiUa if such shares, obligations or
sequuntur personam bonds have acquired a business
situs in the Philippines; and
Business tax Place of business
(5) shares or rights in any
partnership, business or industry
Excise or Privilege Where the act is established in the Philippines.
tax performed or where (Sec. 104, 1997 NIRC).
occupation is
oursued (4) EXEMPTION OF THE GOVERNMENT
As a matter of public policy,
Sales tax Where the sale is property of the State and of its
consummated municipal subdivisions devoted to
government uses and purposes is
Income Tax Consider
deemed to be exempt from taxation
(1) citizenship,
(2) residence, and although no express provision in the law
(3) source of income is made therefor.
(Sec. 42, 1997 NIRC)
General Rule: The Government is tax
Transfer tax Residence or exempt.
citizenship of the - However, it can also tax itself.
taxpayer or location
of property RULES:
1. Administrative Agencies
Franchise Tax State which granted
A. Governmental function - tax
the franchise
exempt unless when the law
expressly provides for tax. (Sec.
SITUS OF TAXATION OF INTANGIBLE PERSONAL
32 87)
PROPERTY
s.Proprietary function - taxable
General Rule: Domicile of the owner
unless exempted by law. (Sec.
pursuant to the principle of the mobilia
27C)
sequuntur personam or movables follow
2. GOCCs
the person.
General Rule: Income is taxable at
Exceptions:
the rate imposed upon corporations
1. When the property has acquired a
or associations engaged in a similar
business situs in another jurisdiction;
business, industry, or activity.
2. When .an express provision of the
Exception: GSIS, SSS, PHIC, PCSO
statute provide for another rule.
and PAGCOR. (Sec. 27(() , NIRC)
Illustration: For purposes of estate
3. Government Educational Institutions
and donor's taxes, the following
A. Property or real estate tax -
intangible properties are deemed
property actually, directly and
with a situs in the Philippines:
exclusively used for educational
(1) franchise which must be
purposes - exempt but income
exercised in the Philippines;
of whatever kind and character
(2) shares, obligations or bonds
from any of their properties,
issued by any corporation
real or personal, regardless of
organized or constituted in the
the disposition, is taxable. (Sec.
Philippines in accordance with
30, last par., NIRC)
its laws;
s. Income received by them as
(3) shares, obligations or bonds by
such are exempt from taxes.
any foreign corporation eighty-
However, their income from any
five percent (85%) of the
of their activities conducted for
business of which is located in
profit regardless of the
the Philippines;
disposition, is taxable. (Sec. 30,
last par., NIRC)
4. Income derived from any public These principles limit the authority
utility or from the exercise of any of the government to effectively impose
essential governmental function taxes on a sovereign state and its
accruing to the Government of the instrumentalities, as well as on its
Philippines or to any political property held and activities undertaken
subdivision thereof is not included in in that capacity. Even where one enters
gross income and exempt from the territory of another, there is an
taxation. (Sec. 32(8)(7)(b), NIRC) implied understanding that the former
5. Donations in favor of governmental does not thereby submit itself to the
institutions are considered as income authority and jurisdiction of the other.
on the part of the donee. However,
it is not considered as taxable B. CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS
income because it is an exclusion A. GENERAL OR INDIRECT
from the computation of gross CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS
income. (Sec.32 (8)(3), NIRC)
6. The amount of all bequests, 1. Due Process Clause (Art. Ill, Sec. 1,
legacies, devises or transfers to or 1987 Constitution)
for the use of the Government or Requisites:
any political subdivision for A.The interests of the public as
exclusively public purposes is distinguished from those of a
deductible from the gross estate. particular class require the
(Sec.86 (A)(3), NIRC) intervention of the State.
7. Gifts made to or for the use of the (Substantive limitation)
National Government or any entity s. The means employed must be
created by any of its agencies which reasonably necessary to the
is not conducted for profit, or to any accomplishment of the purpose
political subdivision of the said and not unduly oppressive.
Government are exempt from (Procedural limitation)
donor's tax. (Sec. 101 (A)(2), NIRC) The constitutionality of a legislative
8. Local government units are taxing act questioned on the ground of
expressly prohibited by the LGC denial of due process requires the
from levying tax upon National existence of an actual case or
Government, its agencies, and controversy.
instrumentalities, and local
government units. [Sec. 133 (o) , 2. Equal Protection Clause (Art. Ill,
LGC] Sec. 1, 1987 Constitution
9. Unless otherwise provided in the Requisites of a Valid Classification:
Local Government Code (LGC), tax a. based upon substantial
exemptions granted to all persons, distinctions
whether natural or juridical, b. germane to the purposes of the
including GOCC, except local water law
districts, cooperatives duly c. not limited to existing conditions
registered under RA No. 6938, non- only
stock and non-profit institutions, are d. apply equally to all members of
withdrawn upon effectivity of the the class
LGC. (Sec. 193, LGC)
10. Real property owned by the 3. Freedom Of Speech And Of The
Republic of the Philippines or any of Press (Art. Ill, Sec. 4, 1987
its political subdivisions except when Constitution)
the beneficial use thereof has been There is curtailment of press
granted , for consideration or freedom and freedom of thought and
otherwise, to a taxable person shall expression if a tax is levied in order
be exempt from payment of real to suppress this basic right and
property tax. (Sec. 234, LGC) impose a prior restraint. (Tolentino
vs. Secretary of Finance, GR No.
(5) INTERNATIONAL COMITY 115455, August 25, 1994)
 due conferred and rate. There
4. Non-Infringement Of Religious process of liabilities should
Freedom And Worship (Art. Ill, Sec. law. imposed. therefore,
••
••
5, 1987 Constitution) Notice be no direct 10/132 ••
must, double
A license tax or fee constitutes a
therefore taxation
curtailment of religious freed om if , be given
imposed as a condition for its in case of
exercise. (American Bible Society failure to
vs. City of Manila, GR No. L-9637, pay taxes
April 30, 1957)
B. SPECIFIC OR DIRECT
5. Non-Impairment Of Contracts (Art. CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS
Ill, Sec. 10, 1987 Constitution)
No law impairing the obligation 1. Non-Imprisonment For Debt Or Non-
of contract shall be passed . (Sec. Payment Of Poll Tax (Art. Ill, Sec.
10, Art. Ill, 1987 Constitution) 20, 1987 Constitution)
The rule, however, does not
apply to public utility franchises or 2. Rule Requiring That Appropriations,
right since they are subject to Revenue And Tariff Bills Shall
amendment, alteration or repeal by Originate Exclusively From The
the Congress when the public House Of Representatives (Art. VI,
interest so requires. (Cagayan Sec. 24, 1987 Constitution)
Electric & Light Co., Inc. v.
Commissioner, GR No. 60216, 3. Uniformity, Equitability And
September 25, 1985) Progressivity Of Taxation (Art. VI,
Sec. 28(1 ), 1987 Constitution)
RULES: Uniformity - all taxable articles or
A. When the exemption is kinds of property of the same class
bilaterally agreed upon between are taxed at the same rate.
the government and the taxpayer - Equitability - the burden falls to
it cannot be withdrawn without those who are more capable to pay.
violating the non-impairment Progressivity - rate increases as the
clause. tax base increases.
s. When it is unilaterally granted by
law, and the same is withdrawn by Q: Is a tax law adopting a regressive
virtue of another law - no violation. system of taxation valid?
c. When the exemption is granted A: Yes. The Constitution does not
under a franchise - it may be really prohibit the imposition of indirect
withdrawn at any time thus, not a taxes which, like the VAT, are
violation of the non-impairment of regressive. The Constitutional provision
contracts means simply that indirect taxes shall be
minimized. The mandate to Congress is
6. Presidential power to grant not to prescribe, but to evolve, a
reprieves, commutations and progressive tax system. (EVAT En Banc
pardons and remit fines and Resolution, Tolentino, et al vs Secretary
forfeitures after conviction (ART. of Finance, October 30, 1995)
VII SEC. 19 1987 CONSTITUTION
Equal 4. Limitations On The Congressional
Uniformity
Protection Power To Delegate To The
Taxpayer Taxpayers • • I •
President The Authority To Fix
may not shall be articles, or
Tariff Rates, Import And Export
be treated alike kinds of
deprived under like property of
Quotas, Etc. (Art. VI, Sec. 28(2),
of life, circumstances the same 1987 Constitution)
liberty or and conditions class, shall
property both in the be taxed at 5. Tax Exemption Of Properties
without the same Actually, Directly And Exclusively
 Used For Religious, Charitable And 6. Voting Requirement In Connection
Educational Purposes. (Art. VI, With The Legislative Grant Of Tax
Sec. 28(3) 7, 1987 Constitution) Exemption (Art. VI, Sec. 28(4),
The constitutional prov1s1on 1987 Constitution)
(above cited) which grants tax 7. Non-Impairment Of The
exemption applies only to property Jurisdiction Of The Supreme Court
or realty taxes assessed on such In Tax Cases (Art. VIII, Sec. 2 And
properties used actually, directly 5(2)(8), 1987 Constitution)
exclusively for religious, charitable
and educational purposes. (Lladoc 8. Exemption From Taxes Of The
vs. Commissioner, GR No. L-19201, Revenues And Assets Of
June 16, 1965) Educational Institutions, Including
The present Constitution Grants, Endowments, Donations
required that for the exemption of And Contributions. (Art. XIV, Sec.
"lands, buildings and 4(3) And (4), 1987 Constitution)
improvements", they should not only
be "exclusively" but also "actually" OTHER SPECIFIC TAX PROVISIONS IN
and "directly" used for religious and THE CONSTITUTION
charitable purposes. (Province of 1 . Power of the President to veto any
Abra vs. Hernando, GR No. L-49336, particular item or items in an
August 31, 1981) appropriation, revenue, or tariff bill.
The test of exemption from (Art VI, Sec. 27(2), 1987
taxation is the use of the property Constitution)
for the purposes mentioned in the 2. Necessity of an appropriation before
Constitution. (Abra Valley College money may be paid out of the public
Inc. vs. Aquino, GR No. L-39086, treasury. (Art. VI, Sec. 29 (1), 1987
June 15, 1988) Constitution)
3. Non-appropriation of public money
EXCLUSIVE BUT NOT ABSOLUTE USE or property for the use, benefit, or
The term " exclusively used" does support of any sect, church, or
not necessarily mean total or absolute system of religion. (Art. VI, Sec. 29
use for religious, charitable and (2), 1987 Constitution)
educational purposes. If the property is 4. Treatment of taxes levied for a
incidentally used for said purposes, the special purpose. (Art. VI, Sec. 29
tax exemption may still subsist. (Abra (3), 1987 Constitution)
Valley College Inc. vs. Aquino, Gr No. L- 5. Internal revenue allotments to local
39086, June 15, 1988) government units. (Art. X, Sec. 6,
Corollarily, if a property, although 1987 Constitution)
actually owned by a religious, charitable
and educational institution is used for a
non- exempt purpose, the exemption DOUBLE TAXATION
from tax shall not attach
DouBLE taxing the same
TAXATION -
ART. XIV, ART. VI, property twice when it should be taxed
SEC 4(3) SEC 28(3) but once.
Grantee Non- stock, Religious,
non profit educational, Is DOUBLE TAXATION PROHIBITED IN THE PHILIPPINES?
educational charitable No. There is no constitutional
institution institutions
prohibition against double taxation. It is
Taxes Income tax Property tax
covered
not favored but permissible. (Pepsi Cola
Custom
Duties Bottling Co. v. City of Butuan, 1968).
Property tax
(DECS Order KINDS OF DOUBLE TAXATION
No. 137-187) (1) Direct Duplicate Taxation /
Obnoxious - double taxation in the
objectionable or prohibited sense.
 This constitutes a violation of the output tax or tax on the finished
substantive due process. product.
• Foreign income taxes may be
Elements: credited against the Phil. Income
a. the same property or subject tax, subject to certain limitations,
matter is taxed twice when it should by citizens, including members of
be taxed only once. general professional partnerships or
b. both taxes are levied for the beneficiaries of estates or trusts
same purpose (pro rata), as well as domestic
c. imposed by the same taxing corporations.
authority
• A tax credit is granted for estate
d. within the same jurisdiction
taxes paid to a foreign country on
e. during the same taxing period
the estate of citizens and resident
f . covering the same kind or
aliens subject to certain limitations.
character of tax.
(Villanueva vs. City of lloilo) • The donor's tax imposed upon a
citizen or a resident shall be
(2) Indirect Duplicate Taxation - not credited with the amount of any
legally objectionable. The absence donor' s tax imposed by the authority
of one or more of the above- of a foreign country, subject to
mentioned elements makes the certain limitations.
double taxation indirect. Tax Exemptions
Principle of Reciprocity
(3) Domestic- this arises when the taxes Treaties with other states
are imposed by the local or national
government (within the same state) METHODS RESORTED To Bv A TAX TREATY IN
ORDER To ELIMINATE DouBLE TAXATION
(4) International- refers to the
imposition of comparable taxes in
two or more states on the same FIRST METHOD: The tax treaty sets out
taxpayer in respect of the same the respective rights to tax by the state
subject matter and for identical of source or situs and by the state of
periods. residence with regard to certain classes
of income or capital. In some cases, an
REMEDIES OF DOUBLE TAXATION
exclusive right to tax is conferred in one
1. Tax Sparing Rule - same dividend of the contracting states; however, for
earned by a NRFC within the Phil. is other items of income or capital, both
reduced by imposing a lower rate of states are given the right to tax although
15% (in lieu of the 35%), on the the amount of tax that may be imposed
condition that the country to which by the state of source is limited.
the NRFC is domiliced shall allow a SECOND METHOD: The state of source is
credit against the tax due from the given a full or limited right to tax
NRFC, taxes deemed to have been together with the state of residence. In
paid in the Phil. (Sec.28 B 5b) (CIR this case, the treaty makes it incumbent
vs Procter & Gamble) (GR No. upon the state of residence to allow
66838, Dec. 2, 1991) relief in order to avoid double taxation.
2. Tax deductions
Two METHODS OF RELIEF ARE USED UNDER THE SECOND
Example: vanishing deduction under
METHOD:
Section 86(A)(2), NIRC
3. Tax credits
Instances under the NIRC: 1. The exemption method- the i ncome
or capital which is taxable in the
• For VAT purposes, the tax on inputs state of source or situs is exempted
or items that go into the in the state of residence, although in
manufacture of finished products some instances it may be taken into
(which are eventually sold) may be account in determining the rate of
credited against or deducted from tax applicable to the tax payer' s
 rema1n1ng income or capital. (This IMPACT oF T AXAT10N - point on which tax is
may be done using the tax deduction originally imposed.
method which allows foreign income
taxes to be deducted from gross point on which the
INCIDENCE oF TAXATION -
income, in effect exempting the tax burden finally rests or settles down.
payment from being further taxed .) Illustration: Value added tax. The
2. The credit method- although the seller is required by law to pay tax, but
income or capital which is taxed in the burden is actually shifted or passed
the state of source is still taxable in on to the buyer.
the state of residence. The tax paid
in the former is credited against the KINDS OF SHIFTING
tax, levied in the latter. A. Forward shifting- when burden of
(Commissioner of Internal Revenue tax is transferred from a factor of
v. S. C Johnson and Son, Inc. et al. , production through the factors of
G.R No. 127105, June 25, 1999) distribution until it finally settles on
the ultimate purchaser or consumer
Exemption C d·t M th d s. Backward shifting- when burden is
Method re 1 e 0 transferred from consumer through
Focus is on t he Focus is on the tax factors of distribution to the factors
income or capital of production
itself c. Onward shifting- when the tax is
shifted 2 or more times either
NOTE: Computational illustration forward or backward
between a tax deduction and a tax
credit: (2) a mere increase in the
CAPITAL1ZAT10N -
value of the propert y is not income
Tax deduction method but merely an unrealized increase
Gross income in capital. No income until after
Less: allowable deductions the actual sale or other disposition
including of the property in excess of its
foreign taxes paid original cost.
Income subject to tax EXCEPT: if by reason of appraisal, the cost
Multiplied by rate basis of property increased and the
Income tax due resultant basis is used as the new tax
base for purposes of computing the
Tax credit method allowable depreciation expense, the net
Gross income difference between the original cost
Less: allowable deductions basis and new basis is taxable under the
excluding economic benefit principle. (BIR Ruling
foreign taxes paid No. 029, March 19, 1998)
Income subject to tax
Multiplied by rate (3) TRANSFORMATION -the manufacturer or
Income tax due producer upon whom the tax has
Less: foreign taxes paid been imposed , fearing the loss of
Net income tax due his market if he should add the tax
to the price, pays the tax and
endeavors to recoup himself by
FORMS OF ESCAPE improving his process of production,
FROM TAXATION thereby turning out his units at a
lower cost.
(1) SHIFTING -the process by which the
tax burden is transferred from the (4) TAx Avo1DANCE the exploitation by
-

statutory taxpayer (impact of the taxpayer of legally permissible

taxation) to another (incident of alternative tax rates or methods of
taxation) without violating the law. assessing taxable property or
 income, in order to avoid or reduce concurrence of a majorit y of all the
tax liability. members of Congress ( ART vi. sEc 28(4) o F
Example: "estate planning" THE 1987 CONSTITUTION)
(conveyance of property to a family
corporation for shares) (Delpher Trades KINDS OF TAX E XEMPTION ••
14/132 ••
••
Corp. vs. /AC, 157 SCRA 349) 1. As to source
(5) TAX EvAs10N - use by the taxpayer of A. Constitutional - immunities from
illegal or fraudulent means to taxation that originate from the
defeat or lessen the payment of the constitution.
tax. s. Statutory - those which emanate
from legislation
FACTORS IN TAX EVASION Examples of Statutory Exemptions
1. the end to be achieved, i.e. payment Sec. 27, NIRC
of less than that known by the Sec. 105 Tariff and Customs
taxpayer to be legally due, or paying Code
no tax when it is shown that the tax Sec. 234 Local Government Code
is due; Special Laws, such as the
2. an accompanying state of mind Omnibus Investment Code of 1987
which is described as being evil, in (EO 226 ), Philippine Overseas
bad faith, willful, or deliberate and Shipping Act (RA 1407 as amended),
not coincidental; and Fertilizer Industry Act (RA 3050, as
3. a course of action which is unlawful. amended), Mineral Resources
Development Decree of 1974 (PD 463
OF FRAUD IN TAX EVASION
INDICIA as amended) , Cottage Industry Act
1. Failure to declare for taxation (RA 318, as amended) and
purposes true and actual income exemptions in "Housing for Low
derived from business for 2 Income Group" (PD 1205, as
consecutive years (Republic vs amended)
Gonzales, L-17962) c. Contractual- agreed to by the
2. Substantial under-declaration of taxing authority in contracts
income tax returns of the taxpayer lawfully entered into by them
for 4 consecutive years coupled with under enabling laws
intentional overstatement of d. Treaty
deductions (CIR vs Reyes, 104 PHIL e. Licensing Ordinance
1061) 2. As to form
(1) Express - expressly granted by
TAX TAX organic or statute law
AVOIDANCE EVASION (2) Implied when particular
persons, property or excises are
Validity Legal and not Illegal and deemed exempt as they fall
subject to subject to outside the scope of the taxing
criminal penalty criminal
provision itself.
penalty
3. As to extent
Effect Minimization of Almost (1) Total - absolute immunity
taxes always (2) Partial - one where a collection
results in of a part of the tax is dispensed
absence of with
tax payments 4. As to object
(1) Personal - granted directly in
(6) TAX E x EMPTION - a grant of immunity favor of certain persons
to particular persons or (2) Impersonal - grant ed directly in
corporations f rom the obligation to favor of a certain class of
pay taxes. property

LEGAL BASIS: No law granting any tax PRINCIPLES GOVERNING TAX E XEMPTION
exemption shall be passed without the
A. Exemptions from taxation are International Airport Authority vs.
highly disfavored in law and are Marcos, 261 SCRA 667)
not presumed.
s. He who claims as exemption must RESTRICTIONS ON REVOCATION OF TAX EXEMPTIONS
be able to justify his claim by the A. Non impairment clause. Where the
clearest grant of organic or statute exemption was granted to private
law by words too plain to be parties based on material
mistaken . If ambiguous, there is no consideration of a mutual nature,
exemption. which then becomes contractual and
c. He who claims exemption should is covered by the non-impairment
prove by convincing proof that he clause of the Constitution.
is exempted. s. Adherence to form- if the tax
o. Taxation is the rule; tax exemption exemption is granted by the
is the exception. Constitution, its revocation may be
E. Tax exemption must be strictly effected through Constitutional
construed against the taxpayer and amendment only
liberally in favor of the taxing c. Where the tax exemption grant is in
authority. the form of a special law and not by
f. Tax exemptions are not presumed. a general law even if the terms of
G. Constitutional grants of tax the general act are broad enough to
exemption are self-executing. include the codes in the general law
H. Tax exemptions are personal. unless there is manifest intent to
repeal or alter the special law
THE FOLLOWING PARTAKE THE NATURE OF TAX (Province of Misamis Oriental vs
EXEMPTION Cagayan Electric Power and Light
1. Deductions for income tax purposes Co. Inc)
2. Claims for refund
3. Tax amnesty NATURE OF TAX AMNESTY
4. Condonation of unpaid tax liabilities 1. General or intentional overlooking by
NOTE: must be strictly construed the state of its authority to impose
against the taxpayer penalties on persons otherwise guilty
of evasion or violation of a revenue
WHEN EXEMPTIONS ARE CONSTRUED LIBERALL y IN or tax law.
FAVOR OF GRANTEE 2. Partakes of an absolute forgiveness of
1. When the law so provides for such waiver of the government of its right
liberal construction. to collect.
2. Exemptions from certain taxes, 3. To give tax evaders, who wish to
granted under special circumstances relent and are willing to reform a
to special classes of persons. chance to do so.
3. Exemptions in favor of the
government, its political subdivisions RULES ON TAX AMNESTY
or instrumentalities. 1. Tax amnesty
4. Exemptions to traditional a) like tax exemption, it is never
exemptees, such as those in favor of favored nor presumed
religious and charitable institutions. b) construed strictly against the
5. If exemptions refer to the public taxpayer (must show complete
property compliance with the law)

Q: May a tax exemption be revoked? 2.Government not estopped from

A: Yes. It is an act of liberality which questioning the tax liability even if
could be taken back by the government amnesty tax payments were already
unless there are restrictions. Since received.
taxation is the rule and exemption Reason: Erroneous application and
therefrom 1s the exception, the enforcement of the law by public
exemption may be withdrawn by the officers do not block subsequent
taxing authority. (Mactan Cebu correct application of the statute. The