Principles of Taxation
Principles of Taxation
Principles of Taxation
Taxes – the enforced proportional contributions levied by the law making body of the state by virtue of its sovereignty
upon the persons or property within its jurisdiction for the support of the government and all public needs.
Lifeblood Theory
a. Taxes are the lifeblood of the Government and their prompt and certain availability are imperious (expecting
obedience) need
b. Upon taxation depends the government’s ability to serve the people for whose benefit taxes are collected
c. Manifestation of lifeblood theory:
1. Imposition of tax even in the absence of constitutional grant
2. Right to select objects of taxation
3. No injunction to enjoin (or stop) tax collection
Inherent Limitation (PENTI) – are those which restrict the power although they are not embodied in the
constitution.
1. Public purpose - This is the purpose affecting the inhabitants of the State as a community and not merely
as individuals
2. Exemption from taxation of government entities - Government agencies performing governmental
functions are exempt from tax unless expressly taxed while those performing proprietary functions are subject
to tax unless expressly exempted
3. Non-delegation of the power to tax - The power to tax is purely legislative, and it cannot be delegated by
the legislature to the executive or juridical departments of the government.
4. Territorial jurisdiction - The tax laws of a state are enforceable only within its territorial limits
5. International comity - The property of a foreign state or government may not be taxed by another.
Constitutional Limitation (DEO NUER) - are those which are expressly found in the constitution or implied from
its provisions
1. Due process of law
2. Equal protection of the laws
3. Non-impairment of obligation of contract
4. Non-imprisonment for non-payment of poll tax
5. Rule of taxation shall be uniform and equitable
6. Exemption from real property tax of charitable institutions, churches, parsonages or convents appurtenant
thereto, mosques, and non-profit institutions, and all lands, buildings and improvements actually, directly and
exclusively used for religious or charitable purposes.
7. All revenues and assets of non-stock, non-profit educational institutions used actually, directly and exclusively
for educational purposes shall be exempt from taxes and duties. Proprietary educational institutions, including
those cooperatively owned, may likewise be entitled to such exemptions subject to the limitations provided by
law.
Who are exempt? Charitable, educational and religious Non-stock, non-profit educational
institutions institutions
b. As to purpose
Taxation Support of government
Police power Promote public welfare
Power of eminent domain Public purpose
c. As to Affected
Taxation Community or class of individuals
Police power Community or class of individuals
Power of eminent domain Individuals as owner of a particular property
d. As to Effect
Taxation Taxes become part of public funds
Police power No transfer of title, there is restraint on the injurious use of property
Power of eminent domain There is transfer of the right to property, either ownership or a lesser right
e. As to Benefits Received
Taxation Equivalent of tax in the form of protection and benefit
Police power No direct and immediate benefit, only such as may arise from the maintenance
of a healthy economic standard of society (damnum absque injuria or damage
without injury)
Power of eminent domain Market value of the property taken from him
f. As to Amount of Imposition
Taxation No limit
Police power Limited to the cost of the license and the necessary expenses of police
surveillance and regulation
Power of eminent domain No imposition, the owner is paid the fair market value of his property
h. As to Compensation
Taxation For the protection and benefits received from the government
Police power The maintenance of a good economic standard of society
Power of eminent domain Just compensation for the property taken
Basis of Taxation
1. The reciprocal duties of protection and support between the state and inhabitants (benefits received
theory).
Government
Public Services People
Taxes
Purpose of Taxation
a. Principal purpose – To raise revenue for governmental needs.
b. Secondary purpose
i. To reduce excessive inequalities of wealth
ii. Protective tariff on imported goods may be imposed to protect local produces against foreign
competitors
iii. To encourage the growth of home industries through the proper use of tax exemptions and tax
incentives
iv. To implement the police power of the state in promoting the general welfare
v. To maintain high level of employment
vi. To control inflation
• The impact of taxation corresponds to the imposition of the tax, shifting refers to transfer of tax and incidence
consist of the payment of tax.
Situs of Taxation
Situs – place of taxation, the country that has the power and jurisdiction to levy and collect the tax.
The Situs will help in determining the source of an income, whether from within the Philippines or from abroad or
sources outside the Philippines. For taxpayers other than resident citizen and domestic corporation which are taxable
on incomes from all sources, this will serve to identify income which are taxable in the Philippines.
Subject Situs
Poll tax on persons Residence of the person
Real property tax State where the property is located whether the owner is resident or not
Tax on tangible personal State where it is physically located although the owner resides in another
properties jurisdiction (lexi rei sitae)
Tax on intangible personal Domicile of the owner (mobilia sequntur pesonam)
properties
Income Tax State where the taxpayer is a resident or citizen
Business, occupation and Place where the business is done, or the occupation is engaged in or the
transaction tax transaction took place
Gratuitous transfer of property State where the transferor is/was a citizen or resident, or where the property is
located
Multiplicity of situs – income or intangible personal properties may be subject to taxation in several taxing
authorities
Double Taxation
Definition. Taxing twice, for the 1same purpose, 2in the same year or period, 3the same subject by the same taxing
jurisdiction, 4same authority.
Constitutionality of double taxation. – there is no provision in the constitution specifically prohibiting double taxation.
It should, however, whenever possible, be avoided.
Shifting – transfer of the tax burden by the person on whom it is imposed by law to another who bears it.
Kinds of shifting
1. Forward shifting – this takes place when the burden of the tax is transferred from a factor or production
through the factors of distribution until it finally settles on the ultimate purchaser or consumer.
2. Backward shifting – this is effected when the burden of the tax is transferred from the customer or purchaser
through the factors of distribution to the factor of production
3. Onward shifting – this occurs when tax is shifted two or more time either forward or backward
Capitalization – Form of backward shifting whereby future taxes on property sold are capitalized at the time of
purchase and deducted in lump sum from the selling price.
Evasion – known as tax dodging, is the use by the taxpayer or illegally permissible methods in order to reduce tax
liability
Avoidance – Known as tax minimization, is the used by the taxpayer or legally permissible methods in order to reduce
tax liability
Classification of exemptions
1. Express or affirmatives – these are express provisions in the constitution, statutes, treaties, ordinances,
franchise or contract.
2. Implied or exemption by omission – these occurs when a tax is levied on certain classes of persons,
properties, or transactions without mentioning other classes. Those not mentioned are deemed exempted by
omission
Classes of Taxes
As to subject matter
Personal, poll, capitation – tax of fixed amount imposed on individuals residing within a specified territory without
regard to their property or the occupation in which they may be engaged. Example Residence tax (community tax)
Property – tax imposed on property, whether real or personal, in proportion, either to its value or in accordance with
some other reasonable method of apportionment. Example Real estate tax
Excise – tax imposed upon the performance of an act, the enjoyment of a privilege or the engaging in an occupation.
Example income tax, privilege tax on business or occupation, transfer tax, VAT and Other percentage tax (Note this
is different from the excise tax which is a business tax imposed on items such as cigars, cigarettes, wines,
liquors, frameworks, mineral products)
Direct – tax which is demanded from the person who is intended to pay it. Example: Income tax, immigration tax,
transfer tax (estate tax and donor’s tax).
Indirect – tax which is demanded from one person in the expectation and intention that shall indemnify himself at the
expense of another or tax which the taxpayer can shift to another. Example Percentage tax, Value added tax (Tax on
Business)
As to Determination of amount
Specific – tax of a fixed amount imposed by the head or member, or by some standard of weight or measurement; it
requires no assessment other than a listing or classification of the objects to be taxed. Example: Excise tax on
distilled spirits, excise tax on cigar, cigarettes and liquors
Ad-valorem – tax of a fixed proportion of the amount or value of the property to which the tax is assessed. It
requires the intervention of assessors or appraisers to estimate the value of such property before the amount due
from each taxpayer can be determined Example: Excise tax on watches, Real estate tax, VAT, Income tax, donors
tax and estate tax
As to purpose
General, fiscal or revenue – tax imposed for the general purpose of the government or to raise revenue for
governmental needs Example- Sales tax, Income tax, Donor’s tax , Estate tax
Special or regulatory – tax imposed for a special purpose or to achieve some social or economic ends. Example: Tariff
or customs duties.
National – tax imposed by the National Government. Example Income tax, estate tax, donor’s tax, valued added tax,
other percentage tax, documentary stamp tax
Municipal or local – imposed by the municipal governments. Example Real estate taxes, Municipal licenses,
community tax
As to graduation or rate
Proportional – tax based on fixed percentage of the amount of property income or other basis to be fixed. Example:
VAT, Percentage Tax, and Real Estate Tax
Regressive tax – the tax rate decreases as the tax base increases. The Philippines is not practicing the Regressive
tax.
Degressive tax – increase of rates is not proportionate to the increase of tax base
License fee or permit – is a charged imposed under the police power for the purpose of regulations
Toll - is a sum of money collected for the use of something, generally applied to the consideration which is paid for
the use of road, bridge or the like, of a public nature.
Special assessment – is an enforced proportional contribution from owners of land for special benefits resulting from
public improvements.
Tax Debt
1. Based on law 1. Based on contract
2. May cover imprisonment 2. There is no imprisonment
3. Not assignable 3. Can be assigned
4. Generally payable in money 4. May be paid in money or in kind
5. Generally not subject to set-off or compensation 5. Subject to set off or compensation
6. Does not draw interest except when delinquent 6. Draws interest when stipulated or when
there is default
Tax Toll
1. A demand of sovereignty 1. A demand of proprietorship
2. May be unlimited in amount 2. Limited to the cost of the property
3. Imposed only by the state 3. May be imposed by a private individuals or entity
Tax Penalty
1. Aimed at raising revenue 1. Designed to regulate conduct
2. Imposed by Government only 2. Imposed by Government or private entities
Revenue – refers to all the funds or income derived by the government, whether from tax or any other sources.
Internal revenue – refers to taxes imposed by the legislature other than duties on imports and exports
Custom duties – are taxes imposed on goods exported to or imported from a country. Custom duties are really taxes
but the latter is broader
3. Where language is plain – if there is no doubt as to the legislative intent, then the words employed are to be
given their ordinary meaning.
Power and Duties of the BIR in General (under the supervision and control of the Department of Finance)
1. To assess and collect all national internal revenue taxes, fees and charges;
2. To enforce all forfeitures, penalties and fines connected therewith;
3. To give effect to and administer the police power conferred to it by law;
4. To recommend to the Secretary of Finance all needful rules and regulations for the effective enforcement of
the provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code.
The following taxes, fees and charges are deemed to be National Internal Revenue Taxes:
1. Income tax
2. Percentage tax
3. Value added tax
4. Estate tax
5. Excise tax
6. Documentary stamp tax
7. Other taxes may be imposed and collected by the BIR
b. Global – a system employed where the tax system views indifferently the tax base and generally treats in common
all categories of taxable income of the individual.
Under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, all revenue and tariff bills shall originate from the House of
Representative. A revenue bill is one that levies taxes and raises funds for the government, while a tariff bill
specifies the rates or duties to be imposed on imported articles.
a. Concurrence by a Majority of all Concurrence by a Majority of all Members of the Congress for the Passage
Members of the Congress to Pass of Law Granting Tax Exemptions [Art. VI, Sec 28 (4)];
Tax Exemption
b. Appropriation, Revenue or Tariff All Appropriation, Revenue or Tariff Bills Shall Originate Exclusively from
Bills Originate from House of the House of Representatives. (Art. VI, Sec. 24)
Representatives
c. Senate May Propose or Concur The senate may Propose or Concur with Amendments (Art. VI, Sec. 24)
d. Conference Committee The committee will harmonize the bill introduced by the House
Representative and a parallel bill introduced in the Senate.
e. President’s Approval The harmonized bill signed by the president becomes law.
f. President’s Veto The president shall have the power to veto any particular item or items in
an appropriation, revenue, or tariff bill, but the veto shall not affect the
item or items to which he does not object. [Art. VI, Sec. 27 (2)]
g. Congress May Authorize The congress may Authorize the President to Fix Tariff Rates, Import and
President to Fix Certain Items Export Quotas, Tonnage and Wharfage Dues and other Duties or Imposts
[Art. VI, Sec. 28 (2)];
e. Congress May Provide Incentives Congress May Provide for Incentives Including Tax Deductions to
Encourage Private Participation in Programs of Basic and Applied Scientific
Research (Art. XIV, Sec. 11).
Taxes are use to support government in nation-building. It is levied for public purpose such as:
1. Construction of roads and bridges
2. Pensions to retired government employees and their widows and children.
3. Assistance to victims of calamities.
4. Social welfare and health projects.
II. Power to obtain information and to Summon, Examine, and Take Testimony of Persons (Sec. 5)
In ascertaining the correctness of any return, or in making a return when none has been made, or in
determining the liability of any person for any internal revenue tax, or in collecting any such liability, or in
evaluating tax compliance, the Commissioner is authorized:
A. To examine any book, paper, record, or data which may be relevant or material to such inquiry
B. To obtain on a regular basis any information such as, but not limited to, costs and volume of
production, receipts or sales and gross income of taxpayers, and the names, addresses, and financial
statements of corporations and other companies and their members;
C. To summon persons to appear before the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative at a
time and place specified in the summons and to produce books, papers, records or other data and to
give testimony;
D. To take such testimony of the persons concerned, under oath, as may be relevant or material to such
inquiry;
E. To cause revenue officers and employees to make a canvass from time to time of any revenue district
or region and inquire after and concerning all persons therein who may be liable to pay any internal
revenue tax, and all persons owning or having the care, management or possession of any object with
respect to which a tax is imposed.
Local Taxing The power to impose a tax, fee, or charge or to generate revenue under this Code shall
Authority be exercised by the Sanggunian of the local government unit concerned through an
appropriate ordinance.
Venue of Filling of All local taxes, fees, and charges shall be collected by the provincial, city, municipal, or
Return Barangay treasurer, or their duly authorized deputies.
Time of filling of tax Unless otherwise provided in this Code, all local taxes, fees, and charges shall be paid
return within the first twenty (20) days of January or of each subsequent quarter, as the case
may be.
The Sanggunian concerned may, for a justifiable reason or cause, extend the time of
payment of such taxes, fees, or charges without surcharges or penalties, but only for a
period not exceeding six (6) months.
The three (3) representatives from the other government agencies and the
private sector shall be appointed by the President for a term of four (4) years.
Upon the expiration of his term, a governor shall serve as such until his
successor shall have been appointed and qualified.
No vacancy shall be filled except for the unexpired portion of any term, and
that no one may be designated to be governor of the Board in an acting
capacity but all appointments shall be ad interim of permanent.
Purpose of Creation Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) is a government agency in the
Philippines attached to the Department of Trade and Industry created to help
promote investments in the export-oriented manufacturing industry into the
country by assisting investors in registering and facilitating their business
operations and providing tax incentives.
PEZA also assists investors who locate in service facilities inside selected areas
Other activities also eligible for PEZA registration and incentives include
establishment and operation within special economic zones for tourism,
medical tourism, logistics and warehousing services, economic zone
development and operation and facilities providers
Composition of PEZA Board PEZA was enacted under Republic Act 7916 and was passed by the House of
Representatives and the Senate and approved by former Philippine President
Fidel V. Ramos on the 21st of February, 1995.
As provided in the Special Economic Zone Act, the PEZA Board is:
END
1. The process by which the sovereign raises income to defray the expenses of the government is called (RPCPA)
A. subsidy
B. tariff
C. taxation
D. tribute
2. One of the characteristics of internal revenue taxes is that they are (RPCPA)
A. Criminal in nature
B. Penal in nature
C. Political in nature
D. Generally prospective in application
3. In case of conflict between tax laws and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) (RPCPA)
A. Both tax laws and GAAP shall be enforced
B. GAAP shall prevail over tax laws
C. Tax laws shall prevail over GAAP
D. The issue shall be resolved by the court
9. Which is the best answer? A tax reform at any given time underscores the fact that (RPCPA)
A. Taxation is an inherent power of the state.
B. Taxation is essentially a legislative power
C. Taxation is a power that is very broad
D. The state can and should adopt progressive taxation
10. The legislative body can impose a tax at any amount underscores the legal truism that taxation is
A. An inherent power of the tax
B. A very broad power of the state
C. Essentially a legislative power
D. For public purpose
11. All of the following, except one, are canons of a. sound tax system
A. Fiscal adequacy
B. theoretical justice
C. Administrative feasibility
D. inherent sovereignty
12. Under the basic principle of sound tax system, the government should not incur a deficit. (RPCPA)
A. Theoretical justice
B. Administrative feasibility
C. Fiscal Adequacy
D. None of the above
13. The following, except one, are basic principles of a sound tax system
A. It should be capable of being effectively enforced.
B. It must be progressive
C. Sources of revenue must be sufficient to meet government expenditures and other public needs.
D. It should be exercised to promote public welfare.
14. Real property taxes should not disregard increases in the value of real property occurring over a long period of
time. To do otherwise would violate the canon of a sound tax system referred to as (BEQ)
A. theoretical justice
B. fiscal adequacy
C. administrative feasibility
D. symbiotic relationship
15. Which of the following is not one of the canons of a sound tax system?
A. Quantifiability
B. Equality
C. Certainty
D. Convenience
16. Which theory in taxation states that without taxes, a government would be paralyzed for lack of power to activate
and operate it, resulting in the destruction? (BEQ)
A. Power to destroy theory
B. Lifeblood Theory
C. Sumptuary theory
D. Symbiotic doctrine
17. Congress passed a sin tax law that increased tax rates on cigarettes by 1,000%. The law was thought to be
sufficient to drive many cigarette companies out of business, and was questioned in court by a cigarette company that
would go online out of business because it would not be able to pay the increased tax.
The cigarette company is ______________ (BEQ)
A. wring because taxes are the lifeblood of the government
19. The power to tax is the power to destroy. Is this always so?
A. No. The executive branch may decide not to enforce a tax law which it believes to be confiscatory.
B. Yes. The tax collectors should enforce a tax law even it results to the destruction of the property rights of taxpayer.
C. Yes. Tax laws should always be enforced because without taxes the very existence of the State is endangered.
D. No. The Supreme Court may nullify a tax law hence, property rights are not affected.
20. The requirement of equality or theoretical justice is complied with if the tax is
A. progressive
B. regressive
C. ad valorem
D. specific
21. The power of taxation can only be exercised by the lawmaking body
A. subject to constitutional and inherent limitations
B. equality or theoretical justice
C. legislative in character
D. inherent in sovereignty
22. The President of the Philippines and the Prime Minster of Japan entered into an executive agreement in respect of a
loan facility to the Philippines from Japan whereby it was stipulated that interest on loans granted by private Japanese
financial institutions in the Philippines shall not be subject to the Philippine income taxes. What basic characteristic of
taxation has been violated by this agreement?
A. inherent limitation
B. theoretical justice
C. legislative in character
D. administrative feasibility
23. Although the power of taxation is basically legislative in character, it is not the function of the Congress to (BEQ)
A. fix with certainty the amount of taxes
B. collect the tax levied under the law
C. identify who should collect the tax
D. determine who should be subject to the tax
24. Which statement gives the correct answer? That a feasibility study needs or need to look into taxes of different
political subdivisions of government which may be alternative sites of the business because (RPCPA)
A. Provinces, cities and municipalities must have uniform taxes between and among themselves
B. The local taxes of a political subdivision need not be uniform with the local taxes of another political subdivision.
C. Businesses that are subject to national taxes are exempted from local business taxes.
D. Local businesses taxes may be credited against national business taxes.
25. The power of taxation is inherent in sovereignty being essential to the existence of every government. Hence, even
if not mentioned in the Constitution, the state can still exercise the power.
It is essentially a legislative function. Even in the absence of any constitutional provision, taxation power falls to Congress
as part of the general power of lawmaking
A. False, False
B. False, True
C. True, True
D. True, False
26. Those restrictions on the exercise of the power of taxation that are found in the constitution or implied from its
provisions
A. theoretical justice
B. legislative in character
C. inherent limitations
d. constitutional limitations
28. One of the following is not an inherent limitation on the exercise of the power of taxation—
A. international comity
B. double taxation
C. non-delegation of the legislative power to tax
29. The City Council passed an ordinance imposing an occupation ta on an air conditioning technician. Conde is the
only person with such in the city. He challenged the validity of the ordinance as being discriminatory since he is the only one
adversely affected.
A. The contention of Conde is tenable
B. The ordinance is unconstitutional because Conde is denied of his right to equal protection of the law.
C. The contention of Conde is not justified because the rule on uniformity is not violated considering that the ordinance
would also be imposed on all air conditioning technicians who may come within the jurisdiction of the city.
D. The issue on validity or invalidity of the ordinance should be set aside.
30. Those who have more income should pay more income tax, while minimum wage earners should be exempt
A. Uniformity of taxation
B. Equality of taxation
C. Due process of law
D, Non-delegation of legislative power
31. All subject or objects that are similarly situated are treated alike as to the burden that may be imposed and the
benefits that may result
A. equitable
B. proportional
C. uniformity
D. progressive
32. A tax law is not violative of the due process clause when it is
A. arbitrary
B. discriminatory
C. excessive
D. proportionate
34. The Lung Center of the Philippines, a charitable institution, is erected in the middle of twelve hectare lot:
I. A big at its ground floor is being leased to private parties, for canteen and small store spaces, and to medical or
professional practitioners who use the same as their private clinics for their patients whom they charge for their professional
services.
II. The rest of the proportions of the building are used for its patients, whether paying or non-paying.
III. Almost one-half of the entire area of the lot on the left side of the building is vacant
IV. A big portion on the right side is being leased for commercial purposes to a private enterprise known as the Elliptical
Orchids & Garden Center.
Which portion is subject to real property tax?
A. I only
B. I and II
C. III. and IV
D. I, III, and IV
35. Statement I: The constitutional exemption on income taxes, property taxes, and customs duties is allowed on non-
stock, non-profit educational institutions only.
Statement II: A building being leased by its owner to a private educational institution for used as classrooms is exempt from
property tax.
Statement III. Income of a non-stock, non-profit educational institution run by the Archdiocese is exempt from tax provided
that the incomes are actually, directly and exclusively used for educational purposes
Which of the statements are correct?
A. Statement 1 only
B. Statements 1&2
C. Statement 2 only
D. All of them
37. Business College is a non-stock, non-profit educational institution. It owns a 5-hectare lot one-half of which is being
used as its school campus while the other half is vacant. To cope with the increasing operating costs and to upgrade
its facilities, BC plans to do the following effective January 1, 2016: (1) rent out to a marketing firm the vacant portion of
the lot; (2) increase tuition fees by 10% in accordance with government regulations; and (3) import 20 sets of computers
for use in its computer courses. Which of the following questions is answerable by “Yes”?
A. Is BC subject to real estate tax on the one-half portion to be rented out to a business establishment?
B. Will it be exempt from income tax on its rental to the marketing firm?
38. The Bicol School of Business and Arts, a proprietary educational institution which is offering primary, secondary
and tertiary education, is registered with and accredited by the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher
Education
Which of the following is exempt from tax? What kind of tax?
A. The importation of laboratory equipment – from customs duties
B. The school building being rented by the school – from real property tax
C. A portion of the school building being leased to a fast-food chain – from real property tax
D. The income from operation – from income tax
39. Assuming that the school in the preceding number is a non-stock non-profit educational institution. Which of the
following is subject to tax? What kind of tax?
A. The school building owned by the school – from real estate tax
B. The school building being rented by the school – from real property tax
C. A portion of the school building being leased to fast food chain – from real property tax
D. The income from operation – from income tax
40. The head priest of the religious sect Tres Personas Solo Dios, as the corporation sole, rented a 5,000 sq. m. lot
registered its name for use as school site of a school organized for profit. The sect used the rentals for the support and
upkeep of its priests. The rented lot is (BEQ)
A. not exempt from real property taxes because the user is organized for profit
B. exempt from real property taxes since it is actually, directly and exclusively used for religious purposes
C. not exempt from real property taxes since it is the rent, not the land, that is used for religious purposes
D. exempt from real property taxes since it is actually, directly and exclusively used for educational purposes
41. The Municipality of Monte Cristo has a ten hectare cemetery consisting of four different cemeteries which are owned
by different entities. Which of the following is subject to real estate tax?
A. Cemetenterio Municipal del Monte Cristo – a government cemetery owned by the municipality which was established for
the purpose of using it as a burial ground of the paupers in Monte Cristo.
B. Monte Cristo Catholic Cemetery – owned by the catholic church; payments are remitted to the catholic church and for the
improvement of the cemetery.
C. Last Trip Memorial Park – owned by a corporation where dividends are distributed to the shareholders at the end of the
year.
D. Quita-Quita Memorial Park – owned by an association consisting one hundred different families; each family owns several
square meters of lot; not a single portion is held for sale to either member or non-member of the association.
42. Lualhati Educational Inc., a stock educational institution organized for profit, decided to lease for a commercial use
a 1,500 sq. m. portion of its school. The school actually, directly and exclusively use the rents for the maintenance of its
school’s building, including payment of janitorial services. Is the leased portion subject to real property tax?
A. Yes, since Lualhati is a stock and for profit educational institution
B. No, since the school actually, directly and exclusively use the rents for educational purposes
C. No, but it may be subject to income taxation on the rents it receives
D. Yes, since the leased portion is not actually, directly and exclusively used for educational purposes
43. All appropriation, revenue or tariff bills, bills authorizing increase of a public debt, bills of local application, and
private bills shall originate exclusively in the
A. office of the president
B. House of the representatives
C. Senate
D. Supreme Court
45. Congressman Luis R. Villafuerte of the 3rd District of Camarines Sur and Senator Juan Ponce Enrile sponsored a bill
in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively, increasing the personal exemptions of individual taxpayers as
well as granting tax exemptions to minimum wage earners.
Which of the following is correct?
A. The Senate bill should be discussed ahead of the House bill
B. The Senate and House bill may be discussed at the same time in both houses
C. The house bill should be discussed ahead of the senate bill
D. No priority each bill can be discussed ahead of the other.
46. No law granting any tax exemption shall be passed without the concurrence of
A. majority of all members of the Congress
B. 2/3 vote of all members of the congress
C. ¾ vote of all members of the Congress
D. Unanimous vote of all members of the Congress
47. Which of the following statement is incorrect with respect to the power of the President?
A. Congress may authorize the president to fix within specified limits tariff rates, import and export quotas, tonnage and
wharfage dues, and other duties and imposts within the framework of the National Development Program of the
government
49. They restrict the exercise of the power of taxation although they are not embodied in the Constitution
A. theoretical justice
B. legislative in character
C. inherent limitation
D. constitutional limitations
50. Money collected from taxation shall not be paid to any religious dignitary except when
A. the religious dignitary is assigned to the Philippine Army
B. it is paid by a local government unit
C. the payment is passed in audit by the COA
D. it is part of the lawmaker’s pork barrel.
51. A tax must be appropriated and spent for public purpose. Which of the following is not a public purpose?
A. dole-out to victims of calamity
B. PantawidPamilyang Pilipino Program (4 Ps)
C. improvement of sugar industry
D. construction of a barangay chapel
53. The fundamental rule in taxation is that “property of one country may not be taxed by another country”
A. international law
B. international comity
C. reciprocity
D. international inhibition
54. Question 1: Can the state tax the Armed Forces of the Philippines?
Question 2: Are the government-owned and controlled corporations subject to tax?
A. Yes, No
B. Yes, Yes
C. No, Yes
D. No, No
55. Diplomatic officials such as heads of states and ambassadors are exempt from taxes and duties because of
A. international comity
B. reciprocity provisions
C. principle of territoriality
D. exemption in the tax code
56. Deals with the provision of the law which determines the person or property to be taxed, the sum or sums to be
raised, the rate thereof, and the time and manner of levying, receiving and collecting taxes
A. Collection
B. payment
C. enforced contribution
D. levy
57. Constituted of the provisions of law which prescribe the manner of enforcing the obligation on the part of those
taxed to pay demand thus created
A. collection
B. proportionate in character
C. enforced contribution
D. levy
61. XYZ Corporation manufactures glass panels and is almost at the point of insolvency. It has no more cash and all it
has are unsold glass panels. It received an assessment from the BIR for deficiency income taxes. It wants to pay but due to
lack of cash, it seeks permission to pay in kind with glass panels. Should the BIR grant the permission?
A. It should grant the permission to make payment convenient to taxpayers
B. It should not grant permission because a tax is generally a pecuniary burden
C. It should grant permission; otherwise, XYZ Corporation would not be able to pay.
D. It should not grant permission because the government does not have the storage facilities for glass panels.
66. Sharon, CPA has just obtained her CPA license. Before she can lawfully pursue her occupation, she should pay
A. Professional tax
B. Percentage tax
C. CPA’s income tax
D. Value-Added tax
67. A tax that is imposed upon a person who is directly bound to pay it—
A. direct tax
B. indirect tax
C. excise tax
D. poll tax
72. Forms part of the purchase price of the commodity or service and passed on to customers
74. Fermin is a mining operator. His mineral lands are not covered by any lease contact. The tax Fermin has to pay
based on the actual value of the gross output or mineral products extracted is
A. mining tax
B. royalties
C. rental
D. ad valorem tax
75. The tax that is imposed solely to raise revenue for government expenditures
A. revenue tax
B. regulatory tax
C. specific tax
D. ad valorem tax
76. Tax levied for particular or specific purpose irrespective of whether revenue is actually raised or not
A. revenue tax
B. regulatory tax
C. specific tax
D. ad valorem tax
77. Tax imposed by the national government and is effective within the entire jurisdiction thereof
A. national tax
B. local tax
C. proportional tax
D. general tax
78. Taxes imposed by a political subdivision of the state and is effective only within the territorial boundaries thereof
A. national tax
B. local tax
C. progressive tax
D. regressive tax
80. The following are kinds of taxes as to graduation. Which one is not?
A, Digressive
B. Uniform
C. Regressive
D. Progressive
81. An example of a tax where the concept of progressively finds application is the
A. income tax on individuals
B. excise tax on petroleum products
C. value-added tax on certain articles
D. amusement tax on boxing exhibitions
82. The power of the state or those to whom the power has been delegated to take private property for public use upon
paying to the owner a just compensation
A. power of eminent domain
B. police power
C. power of taxation
D. people power
83. There can be classification of the subject matter being required to shoulder the burden. Which is the exception?
A. tax
B. license fee
C. toll
D’ eminent domain
84. The power of state to enact laws in relation to persons and property as may promote public health, public morals,
public safety and the general welfare of the people.
A. power of eminent domain
B. police power
C. power of taxation
D. people power
90. After having been informed that some massage parlors are being used as fronts for prostitution, the
SangguiniangPanlngsod of Manila passed a tax ordinance subjecting to massage parlors within its jurisdiction to such
onerous taxes that leave them no other alternative but to stop operating. The passage of the ordinance is a valid exercise of
–
A. taxation
B. eminent domain
C. police power
D. police power and power of taxation
93. Statement 1: An Executive order by the President of the Philippines directing the Commission on Higher Education
to regulate the operation of review centers is a valid exercise of power.
Statement 2: Construction of a church building is exempt from the payment of building permit fees because the constitution
provide that churches are exempt from property taxes.
Which of the above statements is true?
A. Statement 1 only
B. Statement 2 only
C. Neither statements
D. Both statements
94. Statement 1: The Congress can enact tax laws even in the absence of a constitutional provision granting said body
the power of tax.
Statement 2: A tax may be validly imposed in the exercise of police power and not the power of tax.
A. False, False
B. False, True
C. True, True
D. True, False
95. Which of the following may not raise money for the government?
A. Power of taxation
B. Police power
C. Power of eminent domain
96. In this power of the State, the person who is parting with his money or property is presumed to receive a benefit
A. Taxation
B. Police power
C. Eminent domain
D. Forfeiture power
97. Which of the following inherent powers of the government is inferior to the non-impairment clause of the
constitution?
A. Taxation
B. Police power
C. Eminent domain
D. None
99. The distinction of a tax from permit or license fee is that a tax is
A. Imposed for regulation
B. One which involves exercise of police power
C. One in which there is generally no limit on the amount that may be imposed
D. Answer not given
100. Which of the following terms describes this statement “that the state has compensate discretion on the amount to
be imposed after distinguishing between a useful and non-useful activity”?
A. Tax
B. License fee
C. Toll
D. Customs duty
101. Which of the following is not a distinction or similarity of license fee from tax?
A. Imposed for regulation
B. Involves exercise of police power
C. Nonpayment makes the business illegal
D. Legal compensation or reward of an officer for services
107. All funds or income derived by the government om any other source
A. Tax
B. Customs duty
C. Revenue
D. Ordinary revenue
110. Which of the following is not an element of direct duplicate taxation which is violative of the equal protection and
uniformity clauses in the constitution?
A. Same property is taxed twice
B. Same taxing authority
C. Same amount
D. Same purpose
113. 1st Statement: Our Constitution does not prohibit double taxation
2nd Statement: If double taxation occurs, the taxpayer may seek relief under the uniformity clause or the equal protection
guarantee
A. 1st Statement is correct, 2nd Statement is wrong
B. 1st Statement is wrong, 2nd Statement is correct
C. Both Statements are wrong
D. Both Statements are correct
114. Double taxation in its general sense means taxing the same subject twice during the same taxing period. In this
sense, double taxation
A. Violates substantive due process
B. Does not violate substantive due process
C. Violates the right equal protection
D. Does not violate the right equal protection
115. Your client owns a row of apartments. He complains to you that he is being required to pay 4 kinds of taxes on this
line of business alone. From the list given by your client, which of the following taxes has been wrongly imposed on him?
A. Real estate tax on the land and building
B. Value-Added tax on the gross receipts from rent
C. Community tax based on the assessed value of the apartment house
D. Income tax on income from rent
116. One of the following is a false statement about double taxation. Which is it?
A. There is no constitutional prohibition on double taxation
B. Direct duplicate taxation is a valid defense against a tax measure if it is violative of the equal protection clause.
C. Absence of any of the elements of direct double taxation makes it indirect duplicate taxation
D. A 20% final withholding tax on interest income on bank deposits and a 5% gross receipts tax on banks is a direct
duplicate taxation
117. Statement 1: An ordinance imposing a tax on the manufacture of soft drinks and another tax on the sale of the soft
drinks constitute double taxation
Statement 2: Although a deficiency assessment is not necessary, the fact that a tax is due must first be proved before one
cancan be prosecuted for tax evasion
A. Statement 1 Only
B. Statement 2 only
C. Neither statements
D. Both statements?
118. Mr. Alas shoes in Makati through a retail store. He pays the VAT on his gross sales to the BIR and the municipal
license tax based on the same gross sales to the City of Makati. He comes to you for advice because he thinks he is
subjected to double taxation.
What advice will you give him?
A. Yes, there is double taxation and it is oppressive
B. The City of Makati does not have this power.
C. Yes, there is double taxation and it is illegal in the Philippines
D. Double taxation is allowed where one tax is imposed by the national government and the other by the local government.
119. Transfer of the tax burden by one whom the tax is assessed to another
A. Shifting
120. Which of the following is not a scheme of shifting the incidence of tax burden?
A. The manufacturer transfers the tax to the consumer by adding the tax to the selling price of the goods sold
B. The purchaser asks for a discount or refuse to buy at regular price unless it is reduced by an amount equal to the tax he
will pay
C. Changing the term of the sale like FOB shipping point in the Philippines to FOB destination abroad, so that the title
passes abroad instead in the Philippines
D. The manufacturer transfers the sales tax to the distributor, then in turn to the wholesaler, to the retailer and finally to
the consumer.
121. The reduction in the selling price of income-producing property by an amount equal to the capitalized value of the
future taxes that may be paid by the purchaser
A. Shifting
B. Capitalization
C. Transformation
D. Tax exemption
122. The method by which the manufacturer or producer upon whom the taxes imposed pays the tax and strives to
recover such expense through lower production ost without sacrificing quality of his product.
A. Shifting
B. Capitalization
C. Transformation
D. Tax exemption
123. The grant of immunity to particular persons or corporation or to persons or corporations of a particular class from a
tax which persons and corporations generally within the same taxing district are obliged to pay.
A. Tax exemption
B. Tax evasion
C. Tax avoidance
D. Tax amnesty
124. Statement 1: The grant of a tax amnesty must be construed against the taxpayer and liberally in favor of the
taxing authority
Statement 2: A tax exemption is a personal privilege which can be assigned or transferred by the grantee unless disallowed
in the law granting tax exemption.
Which of the above statements is true?
A. Statement 1 only
B. Statement 2 only
C, Neither statements
D. Both statements
125. Which of the following are not usually imposed when there is tax amnesty?
A. Civil criminal and administrative penalties
B. Civil and criminal penalties
C. Civil and administrative penalties
D. Criminal and administrative penalties
126. Statement 1: A BIR Ruling issued by a Commissioner of Internal Revenue which grants tax exemption would create
a perpetual exemption in favor of the taxpayer.
Statement 2: A tax exemption may be withdrawn anytime at the pleasure of the taxing authority.
A. Statement 1 only
B. Statements 1 & 2
C. Statement 2 only
D. Neither of them
132. The following, except one, are exceptions to the rule that the tax exemptions must be strictly construed against the
taxpayer
A. Where the statute granting the exemption provides for liberal interpretation thereof.
B. If the taxpayer does not fall within the purview of the exception by clear legislative intent.
C. In case of special taxes relating to special cases and affecting only special classes of persons
D. If exemptions refer to public property
135. Some franchise holders who are paying the franchise tax are being required by an amendatory law to pay the
value-added tax, while others remain subject to franchise tax. Which of the following constitutional provisions makes the
law unconstitutional?
A. No law shall be passed impairing the obligation of contract.
B. The rule of taxation shall be uniform
C. No person shall be deprived of property without due process of law
D. None of the above
136. S1: The point on which a tax is originally imposed is impact of taxation
S2: As a rule, taxes are subject to set-off or compensation
1st Statement 2nd Statement
A. True True
B. False True
C. False False
D. True False
137. Which of the following is not considered as a step in making a revenue regulation effective?
A. Recommendation by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue to the Secretary of Finance
B. Approval by the Secretary of Finance
C. Legislation by Congress
D. Publication in a newspaper of general circulation
138. Statement 1: In case of conflict between a revenue regulation and the provisions of National Internal Revenue
Code the latter shall prevail.
Statement 2: The revocation of a revenue regulation cannot be made retroactive even if the reason for its
revocation is that it erroneous or contrary to the law.
A. Statement 1 is correct; Statement 2 is wrong
B. Both statements are correct
C. Statement 1 is wrong; Statement 2 is correct
D. Both statements are wrong
139. All of the following, except one, are sources of tax laws
A. Legislations, tax treaties and tax ordinances
B. Judicial decisions
C. Opinions of authors
D. Administrative rules and regulations
141. When the refund of a tax supposedly due to the taxpayer has already been barred by prescription, and the said
taxpayer is assessed with a tax at present, the two taxes may be set-off with each other. This doctrine is called
A. Set-off doctrine
B. Doctrine of reciprocity
C. Tax sparing doctrine
D. Equitable recoupment
143. The place of authority that has the right to impose and collect taxes—
A. Territoriality
B. International comity
C. Situs of taxation
D. Transformation
145. Which among of the following concepts of taxation is the basis of the situs of income taxation?
A. Lifeblood doctrine of taxation
B. Symbiotic relation in taxation
C. Compensatory purpose of taxation
D. Sumptuary purpose of taxation
146. Which of the following is not correct with respect to a taxpayer’s suit?
A. It must pertain to illegal disbursement of public funds
B. It pertains to the passage of a seemingly unconstitutional measure
C. The funds sought to be disbursed must have been raised through
D. It must not refer to an enactment of a tax law
147. Anne Lapada, a student activist, wants to impugn the validity of a tax on text messages. Aside from claiming that
the law adversely affects her since she sends messages by text, what may she allege that would strengthen her claim to
the right to file a taxpayer’s suit?
A. That she is entitled to the return of the taxes collected from her on case the court nullifies the tax measure
B. That the tax money is being extracted and spent in violation of the constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of
communication
C. That she is filing the case in behalf of a substantial number of taxpayers
D. That text messages are an important part of the lives of the people she represents.
150. Which of the following is not a remedy against indirect double taxation?
A. Reciprocity provisions
B. Tax credit
C. Tax exemptions
D. Vanishing deduction
1. C
2. D
Revenue laws are prospective in operation, unless the legislative intent that the statute
operate retrospectively is distinctly expressed or necessarily implied.
Our tax laws are civil in nature and not criminal. It was also held that our tax laws are not
penal laws although there are penalties provided for their violation.