The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said on Thursday it will share its audit findings on 15 construction firms allegedly involved in anomalous flood control projects with both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr., in an appearance on state television, said the bureau is vested with a letter of authority to audit the companies’ books to determine compliance with tax laws and regulations.
The audit will focus on possible tax evasion and other tax obligations, he said, adding the speed of the investigation will depend on the cooperation of the firms.
Lumagui said the findings will be shared with lawmakers in an executive session, leaving the decision to make them public to the legislative bodies.
If any criminal violations are discovered, he said the BIR will file charges with the Department of Justice, which could lead to tax evasion charges and prevent the companies from participating in future government projects.
Of the 15 firms named, nine owned by the Discaya family have already been blacklisted from the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS), which shortlists suppliers for government contracts.
Wawao Builders and SYMS have also been reported set to lose their PhilGEPS membership, along with other contractors involved in the scandal.
Lumagui also indicated that the BIR is likely to expand its audit to include other contractors.
