Taxation

(a) Differentiate between a calendar year and a fiscal year. (2.5%) (b) When is the deadline for the filing of a corporation's final adjustment return for a calendar year? How about for a fiscal year? (2.5%)

XYZ Corp. is listed as a top 20,000 Philippine corporation by the Bureau of Internal Revenue. It secured a loan from ABC Bank with a 6% per annum interest. All interest payments made by XYZ Corp. to ABC Bank are subject to a 2% creditable withholding tax. At the same time, XYZ Corp. has a trust deposit with ABC Bank in the amount of P100,000,000.00, which earns 2% interest per annum, but is subject to a 20% final withholding tax on the interest income received by XYZ Corp. (a) Who are the withholding agents in the case of: 1. the 20% final withholding tax; and 2. the 2% creditable withholding tax? Explain. (2.5%) (b) When is the deadline for filing a judicial claim for refund for any excess or erroneous taxes paid in the case of: 1. the 20% final withholding tax; and 2. the 2% creditable withholding tax? (2.5%)

After a Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) audit, T Corp., a domestic corporation engaged in buying and selling of scrap metals, was found to have deficiency income tax of P25,000,000.00, including interests and penalties, for the year 2012. For 2012, T Corp. filed its income tax return (ITR) on April 15, 2013 because it used the calendar year for its accounting. The BIR sent the Preliminary Assessment Notice (PAN) on December 23, 2015, and eventually, the Final Assessment Notice (FAN) on April 11, 2016, which were received by T Corp. on the same dates that they were sent. Upon receipt of the FAN, T Corp. filed its protest letter on June 25, 2016. Thereafter, and without action from the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR), T Corp. filed a petition for review before the Court of Tax Appeals, alleging that the assessment has prescribed. For its part, the CIR moved to dismiss the case, pointing out that the assessment had already become final because the protest was filed beyond the allowable period. (a) Is T Corp.'s contention regarding the prescription of the assessment meritorious? Explain. (2.5%) (b) Should the CIR's motion to dismiss be granted? Explain. (2.5%)

On October 5, 2016, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) sent KLM Corp. a Final Assessment Notice (FAN), stating that after its audit pursuant to a Letter of Authority duly issued therefor, KLM Corp. had deficiency value-added and withholding taxes. Subsequently, a warrant of distraint and/or levy was issued against KLM Corp. KLM Corp. opposed the actions of the BIR on the ground that it was not accorded due process because it did not even receive a Preliminary Assessment Notice (PAN) after the BIR's investigation, which the BIR admitted. (a) Distinguish a PAN from a FAN. (2%) (b) Are the deficiency tax assessment and warrant of distraint and/or levy issued against KLM Corp. valid? Explain. (3%)

On May 10, 2011, the final withholding tax for certain income payments to W Corp. was withheld and remitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and the corresponding return therefor was concomitantly filed on the same date. Upon discovering that the amount withheld was excessive, W Corp. filed with the BIR a claim for refund for erroneously withheld and collected final withholding income tax on May 3, 2013. A week after, and without waiting for any decision from the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR), W Corp. filed a petition for review before the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) to make sure that the petition was filed within the two (2)-year period for claiming refunds. In resisting the claim, the BIR contended that the claim must be dismissed by the CTA on the ground of non-exhaustion of administrative remedies because it did not give the CIR the opportunity to act on the claim for refund. (a) Is the BIR's contention meritorious? Explain. (2.5%) (b) Assuming that the claim for refund filed by W Corp. is for excess and/or unutilized input VAT for the second quarter of 2011, and for which the return was timely filed on July 25, 2011, would your answer be the same? Explain. (2.5%)

ABC, Inc. owns a 950-square meter commercial lot in Quezon City. It received a notice of assessment from the City Assessor, subjecting the property to real property taxes (RPT). Believing that the assessment was erroneous, ABC, Inc. filed a protest with the City Treasurer. However, for failure to pay the RPT, the City Treasurer dismissed the protest. (a) Was the City Treasurer correct in dismissing ABC, Inc.'s protest? Explain. (2.5%) (b) Assuming that ABC, Inc. decides to appeal the dismissal, where should the appeal be filed? (2.5%)

As a way to augment the income of the employees of DEF, Inc., a private corporation, the management decided to grant a special stipend of P50,000.00 for the first vacation leave that any employee takes during a given calendar year. In addition, the senior engineers were also given housing inside the factory compound for the purpose of ensuring that there are available engineers within the premises every time there is a breakdown in the factory machineries and equipment. (a) Is the special stipend part of the taxable income of the employees receiving the same? If so, what tax is applicable and what is the tax rate? Explain. (3%) (b) Is the cash equivalent value of the housing facilities received by the senior engineers subject to fringe benefits tax? Explain. (3%)

City R owns a piece of land which it leased to V Corp. In turn, V Corp. constructed a public market thereon and leased the stalls to vendors and small storeowners. The City Assessor then issued a notice of assessment against V Corp. for the payment of real property taxes (RPT) accruing on the public market building, as well as on the land where said market stands. Is the City Assessor correct in including the land in its assessment of RPT against V Corp., even if the same is owned by City R? Explain. (3%)

In 2018, City X amended its Revenue Code to include a new provision imposing a tax on every sale of merchandise by a wholesaler based on the total selling price of the goods, inclusive of value-added taxes (VAT). ABC Corp., a wholesaler operating within City X, challenged the new provision based on the following contentions: 1. the new provision is a form of prohibited double taxation because it essentially amounts to City X imposing VAT which was already being levied by the national government; and 2. since the tax being imposed is akin to VAT, it is beyond the power of City X to levy the same. Rule on each of ABC Corp.'s contentions. (5%)

GHI, Inc. is a corporation authorized to engage in the business of manufacturing ultra-high density microprocessor unit packages. After its registration on July 5, 2005, GHI, Inc. constructed buildings and purchased machineries and equipment. As of December 31, 2005, the total cost of the machineries and equipment amounted to P250,000,000.00. However, GHI, Inc. failed to commence operations. Its factory was temporarily closed effective September 15, 2010. On October 1, 2010, it sold its machineries and equipment to JKL Integrated for P300,000,000.00. Thereafter, GHI, Inc. was dissolved on November 30, 2010. (a) Is the sale of the machineries and equipment to JKL Integrated subject to normal corporate income tax or capital gains tax? Explain. (3%) (b) Distinguish an ordinary asset from a capital asset. (2%)

Due to rising liquidity problems and pressure from its concerned suppliers, P Corp. instituted a flash auction sale of its shares of stock. P Corp. was then able to sell its treasury shares to Z, Inc., an unrelated corporation, for P1,000,000.00, which was only a little below the valuation of P Corp.'s shares based on its latest audited financial statements. In connection therewith, P Corp. sought a Bureau of Internal Revenue ruling to confirm that, notwithstanding the price difference between the selling price of the shares and their book value, the said transaction falls under one of the recognized exemptions to donor's tax under the Tax Code. (a) Cite the instances under the Tax Code where gifts made are exempt from donor's tax. (3%) (b) Does the above transaction fall under any of the exemptions? Explain. (2%)

Mr. C is employed as a Chief Executive Officer of MNO Company, receiving an annual compensation of P10,000,000.00, while Mr. S is a security guard in the same company earning an annual compensation of P200,000.00. Both of them source their income only from their employment with MNO Company. (a) At the end of the year, is Mr. C personally required to file an annual income tax return? Explain. (2.5%) (b) How about Mr. S? Is he personally required to file an annual income tax return? Explain. (2.5%)

For purposes of value-added tax, define, explain or distinguish the following terms: (a) Input tax and output tax (3%) (b) Zero-rated and effectively zero-rated transactions (3%) (c) Destination principle (3%)

All the homeowners belonging to ABC Village Homeowners' Association elected a new set of members of the Board of Trustees for the Association effective January 2019. The first thing that the Board looked into is the need to increase the prevailing association dues. Mr. X, one of the trustees, proposed an increase of 100% to account for the payment of the 12% value-added tax (VAT) on the association dues which were being collected for services allegedly rendered "in the course of trade or business" by ABC Village Homeowners' Association. (a) What constitutes transactions done "in the course of trade or business" for purposes of applying VAT? (2%) (b) Is Mr. X correct in stating that the association dues are subject to VAT? Explain. (3%)

B transferred his ownership over a 1,000-square meter commercial land and three-door apartment to ABC Corp., a family corporation of which B is a stockholder. The transfer was in exchange of 10,000 shares of stock of ABC Corp. As a result, B acquired 51% ownership of ABC Corp., with all the shares of stock having the right to vote. B paid no tax on the exchange, maintaining that it is a tax avoidance scheme allowed under the law. The Bureau of Internal Revenue, on the other hand, insisted that B's alleged scheme amounted to tax evasion. Should B pay taxes on the exchange? Explain. (3%)

A, a resident Filipino citizen, died in December 2018. A's only assets consist of a house and lot in Alabang, where his heirs currently reside, as well as a house in Los Angeles, California, USA. In computing A's taxable net estate, his heirs only deducted: 1. P10,000,000.00 constituting the value of their house in Alabang as their family home; and 2. P200,000.00 funeral expenses because no other expenses could be substantiated. (a) Are both deductions claimed by A's heirs correct? Explain. (2%) (b) May a standard deduction be claimed by A's heirs? If so, how much and what proof needs to be presented for the same to be validly made? (2%) (c) In determining the gross estate of A, should the heirs include A's house in Los Angeles, California, USA? Explain. (2%)

XYZ Air, a 100% foreign-owned airline company based and registered in Netherlands, is engaged in the international airline business and is a member signatory of the International Air Transport Association. Its commercial airplanes neither operate within the Philippine territory nor are its service passengers embarking from Philippine airports. Nevertheless, XYZ Air is able to sell its airplane tickets in the Philippines through ABC Agency, its general agent in the Philippines. As XYZ Air's ticket sales, sold through ABC Agency for the year 2013, amounted to P5,000,000.00, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) assessed XYZ Air deficiency income taxes on the ground that the income from the said sales constituted income derived from sources within the Philippines. Aggrieved, XYZ Air filed a protest, arguing that, as a non-resident foreign corporation, it should only be taxed for income derived from sources within the Philippines. However, since it only serviced passengers outside the Philippine territory, the situs of the income from its ticket sales should be considered outside the Philippines. Hence, no income tax should be imposed on the same. Is XYZ Air's protest meritorious? Explain. (5%)

Differentiate tax exclusions from tax deductions. (3%)

Mr. D, a Filipino amateur boxer, joined an Olympic qualifying tournament held in Las Vegas, USA, where he won the gold medal. Pleased with Mr. D's accomplishment, the Philippine Government, through the Philippine Olympic Committee, awarded him a cash prize amounting to P1,000,000.00. Upon receipt of the funds, he went to a casino in Pasay City and won the P30,000,000.00 jackpot in the slot machine. The next day, he went to a nearby Lotto outlet and bought a Lotto ticket which won him a cash prize of P5,000.00. Which of the above sums of money is/are subject to income tax? Explain. (5%)

JKL-Philippines is a domestic corporation affiliated with JKL-Japan, a Japan-based information technology company with affiliates across the world. Mr. F is a Filipino engineer employed by JKL-Philippines. In 2018, Mr. F was sent to the Tokyo branch of JKL-Japan based on a contract entered into between the two (2) companies. Under the said contract, Mr. F would be compensated by JKL-Philippines for the months spent in the Philippines, and by JKL-Japan for months spent in Japan. For the entirety of 2018, Mr. F spent ten (10) months in the Tokyo branch. On the other hand, Mr. J, a Japanese engineer employed by JKL-Japan, was sent to Manila to work with JKL-Philippines as a technical consultant. Based on the contract between the two (2) companies, Mr. J's annual compensation would still be paid by JKL-Japan. However, he would be paid additional compensation by JKL-Philippines for the months spent working as a consultant. For 2018, Mr. J stayed in the Philippines for five (5) months. In 2019, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) assessed JKL-Philippines for deficiency withholding taxes for both Mr. F and Mr. J for the year 2018. As to Mr. F, the BIR argued that he is a resident citizen; hence, his income tax should be based on his worldwide income. As to Mr. J, the BIR argued that he is a resident alien; hence, his income tax should be based on his income from sources within the Philippines at the schedular rate under Section 24 (A) (2) of the Tax Code, as amended by Republic Act No. 10963, or the "Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion" Law. (a) Is the BIR correct in basing its income tax assessment on Mr. F's worldwide income? Explain. (3%) (b) Is the BIR correct in basing its income tax assessment on Mr. J's income within the Philippines at the schedular rate? Explain. (3%)

Kilusang Krus, Inc. (KKI) is a non-stock, non-profit religious organization which owns a vast tract of land in Kalinga. KKI has devoted 1/2 of the land for various uses: a church with a cemetery exclusive for deceased priests and nuns, a school providing K to 12 education, and a hospital which admits both paying and charity patients. The remaining 1/2 portion has remained idle. The KKI Board of Trustees decided to lease the remaining 1/2 portion to a real estate developer which constructed a community mall over the property. Since the rental income from the lease of the property was substantial, the KKI decided to use the amount to finance (1) the medical expenses of the charity patients in the KKI Hospital and (2) the purchase of books and other educational materials for the students of KKI School. (a) Is KKI liable for real property taxes on the land? (2.5%) (b) Is KKI's income from the rental fees subject to income tax? (2.5%)

Koko's primary source of income is his employment with the government. He earns extra from the land he inherited from his parents, and which land he has been leasing to a private, non-stock, non-profit school since 2005. Last January, the school offered to buy the land from Koko for an amount equivalent to its zonal value plus 15% of such zonal value. Koko agreed but required the school to pay, in addition to the purchase price, the 12% VAT. The school refused Koko's proposal to pass on the VAT contending that it was an entity exempt from such tax. Moreover, it said that Koko was not regularly engaged in the real estate business and, therefore, was not subject to VAT. Consequently, Koko should not charge any VAT to the school. (a) Is the contention of the school correct? (2.5%) (b) Will your answer be the same if Koko signed up as a VAT-registered person only in 2017? (2.5%)

Klaus, Inc., a domestic, VAT-registered corporation engaged in the land transportation business, owns a house and lot along Katipunan St., Quezon City. This property is being used by Klaus, Inc.'s president and single largest shareholder, Atty. Krimson, as his residence. No business activity transpires there except for the company's Christmas party which is held there every December. Atty. Krimson recently grew tired of the long commute from Katipunan to his office in Makati City and caused the company to sell the house and lot. The sale was recorded in the books of Klaus, Inc. as investment in real property. (a) Is the sale of the said property subject to VAT? (2.5%) (b) Is the sale subject to 6% capital gains tax or regular corporate income tax of 30%? (2.5%)

Karlito, a Filipino businessman, is engaged in the business of metal fabrication and repair of LPG cylinder tanks. He conducts business under the name and style of "Karlito's Enterprises," a single proprietorship. Started only five (5) years ago, the business has grown so enormously that Karlito decided to incorporate it by transferring all the assets of the business, particularly the inventory of goods on hand, machineries and equipment, supplies, parts, raw materials, office furniture and furnishings, delivery trucks and other vehicles, buildings, and tools to the new corporation, Karlito's Enterprises, Inc., in exchange for 100% of the capital stock of the new corporation, the stock subscription to which shall be deemed fully paid in the form of the assets transferred to the corporation by Karlito. As a result, Karlito's Enterprises, the sole proprietorship, ceased to do business and applied for cancellation of its BIR Certificate of Registration. The BIR, however, assessed Karlito VAT on account of the cessation of business based on the current market price of the assets transferred to Karlito's Enterprises, Inc. (a) Is the transfer subject to VAT? (2.5%) (b) Is the transfer subject to income tax? (2.5%)

Krisp Kleen, Inc. (KKI) is a corporation engaged in the manufacturing and processing of steel and its by-products. It is both registered with the Board of Investments with a pioneer status, and with the BIR as a VAT entity. On October 10, 2010, it filed a claim for refund/credit of input VAT for the period January 1 to March 31, 2009 before the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR). On February 1, 2011, as the CIR had not yet made any ruling on its claim for refund/credit, KKI, fearful that its period to appeal to the courts might prescribe, filed an appeal with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA). (a) Can the CTA act on KKI's appeal? (2.5%) (b) Will your answer be the same if KKI filed its appeal on March 20, 2011 and CIR had not yet acted on its claim? (2.5%)

The BIR assessed Kosco, Inc., an importer of food products, deficiency income and value-added taxes, plus 50% surcharge after determining that Kosco, Inc. had under-declared its sales by an amount exceeding 30% of that declared in its income tax and VAT returns. Kosco, Inc. denied the alleged under-declaration, protested the deficiency assessment for income and value-added taxes and challenged the imposition of the 50% surcharge on the ground that the surcharge may only be imposed if Kosco, Inc. fails to pay the deficiency taxes within the time prescribed for their payment in the notice of assessment. (a) Is the imposition of the 50% surcharge proper? (2.5%) (b) If your answer to (a) is yes, may Kosco, Inc. enter into a compromise with the BIR for reduction of the amount of surcharge to be paid? (2.5%)

Kathang Isip, Inc. (KII) is a domestic corporation engaged in the business of manufacturing, importing, exporting, and distributing toys both locally and abroad. Its principal office is located in Kalookan City, Philippines. It has 50 branches in different cities and municipalities in the country. When KII applied for renewal of its mayor's permit and licenses in its principal office in January this year, Kalookan City demanded payment of the local business tax on the basis of the gross sales reported by the corporation in its audited financial statements for the preceding year. KII protested, contending that Kalookan City may tax only the sales consummated by its principal office but not the sales consummated by its branch offices located outside Kalookan City. When Kalookan City denied the protest, KII engaged the services of Atty. Kristeta Kabuyao to file the necessary judicial proceedings to appeal the decision of Kalookan City. Atty. Kabuyao is a legal expert, but resides in Kalibo, Aklan where her husband operates a resort. She, however, practices in Metro Manila, including Kalookan City. The counsel representing the city, in the case filed in Kalookan City by KII, questioned the use of Atty. Kabuyao's Professional Tax Receipt (PTR) issued in Aklan for a case filed in Kalookan City. (a) Is KII's contention that Kalookan City can only collect local business taxes based on sales consummated in the principal office meritorious? (2.5%) (b) Is the Kalookan City counsel correct in saying that Atty. Kabuyao's PTR issued in Aklan cannot be used in Kalookan? (2.5%)

KM Corporation, doing business in the City of Kalookan, has been a distributor and retailer of clothing and household materials. It has been paying the City of Kalookan local taxes based on Sections 15 (Tax on Wholesalers, Distributors or Dealers) and 17 (Tax on Retailers) of the Revenue Code of Kalookan City (Code). Subsequently, the Sangguniang Panlungsod enacted an ordinance amending the Code by inserting Section 21 which imposes a tax on "Businesses Subject to Excise, Value-Added and Percentage Taxes under the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC)," at the rate of 50% of 1% per annum on the gross sales and receipts on persons "who sell goods and services in the course of trade or business." KM Corporation paid the taxes due under Section 21 under protest, claiming that (a) local government units could not impose a tax on businesses already taxed under the NIRC and (b) this would amount to double taxation, since its business was already taxed under Sections 15 and 17 of the Code. (a) May local government units impose a tax on businesses already subjected to tax under the NIRC? (2.5%) (b) Does this amount to double taxation? (2.5%)

The BIR Commissioner, in his relentless enforcement of the Run After Tax Evaders (RATE) program, filed with the Department of Justice (DOJ) charges against a movie and television celebrity. The Commissioner alleged that the celebrity earned around PhP 50 million in fees from product endorsements in 2016 which she failed to report in her income tax and VAT returns for said year. The celebrity questioned the proceeding before the DOJ on the ground that she was denied due process since the BIR never issued any Preliminary Assessment Notice (PAN) or a Final Assessment Notice (FAN), both of which are required under Section 228 of the NIRC whenever the Commissioner finds that proper taxes should be assessed. Is the celebrity's contention tenable? (2.5%)

In an action for ejectment filed by Kurt, the lessor-owner, against Kaka, the lessee, the trial court ruled in favor of Kurt. However, the trial court first required Kurt to pay the realty taxes due on the property for 2016 before he may recover possession thereof. Kurt objected, arguing that the delinquent realty taxes were never raised as an issue in the ejectment case. At any rate, Kurt claimed that it should be Kaka who should be made liable for the realty taxes since it was Kaka who possessed the property throughout 2016. Is Kurt correct in resisting the trial court's requirement to pay the taxes first? (2.5%)

In 2015, Kerwin bought a three-story house and lot in Kidapawan, North Cotabato. The property has a floor area of 600 sq.m. and is located inside a gated subdivision. Kerwin initially declared the property as residential for real property tax purposes. In 2016, Kerwin started using the property in his business of manufacturing garments for export. The entire ground floor is now occupied by state-of-the-art sewing machines and other equipment, while the second floor is used as offices. The third floor is retained by Kerwin as his family's residence. Kerwin's neighbors became suspicious of the activities going on inside the house, and they decided to report it to the Kidapawan City Hall. Upon inspection, the local government discovered that the property was being utilized for commercial use. Immediately, the Kidapawan Assessor reclassified the property as commercial with an assessment level of 50% effective January 2017, and assessed Kerwin back taxes and interest. Kerwin claims that only 2/3 of the building was used for commercial purposes since the third floor remained as family residence. He argues that the property should have been classified as partly commercial and partly residential. (a) Is the Kidapawan assessor correct in assessing back taxes and interest? (2.5%) (b) Is Kerwin correct that only 2/3 of the property should be considered commercial? (2.5%) (c) If Kerwin wants to file an administrative protest against the assessment, is he required to pay the assessment taxes first? With whom shall the protest be filed and within what period? (2.5%)

The City of Kabankalan issued a notice of assessment against KKK, Inc. for deficiency real property taxes for the taxable years 2013 to 2017 in the amount of P20 million. KKK paid the taxes under protest and instituted a complaint entitled "Recovery of Illegally and/or Erroneously-Collected Local Business Tax, Prohibition with Prayer to Issue TRO and Writ of Preliminary Injunction" with the RTC of Negros Occidental. The RTC denied the application for TRO. Its motion for reconsideration having been denied as well, KKK filed a petition for certiorari with the Court of Appeals (CA) assailing the denial of the TRO. Will the petition prosper? (5%)

The Collector at the Port of Koronadal seized 100 second-hand right-hand drive buses imported from Japan. He issued warrants of distraint and scheduled the vehicles for auction sale. Kamila, the importer of the second-hand buses, filed a replevin suit with the Regional Trial Court (RTC). The RTC granted the replevin upon filing of a bond. Did the RTC err in granting the replevin? (2.5%)

Upon the death of their beloved parents in 2009, Karla, Karla, and Karlie inherited a huge tract of farm land in Kanlaon City. The siblings had no plans to use the property. Thus, they decided to donate the land, but were not sure to whom the donation should be made. They consult you, a well-known tax law expert, on the tax implications of the possible donations they plan to make, by giving you a list of the possible donees: 1) The Kanlaon City High School Alumni Association (KCHS AA), since the siblings are all alumni of the same school and are active members of the organization. KCHS AA is an organization intended to promote and strengthen ties between the school and its alumni; 2) The Kanlaon City Water District which intends to use the land for its offices; or 3) Their second cousin on the maternal side, Kikay, who serves as the caretaker of the property. Advise the siblings which donation would expose them to the least tax liability. (5%)

Karissa is the registered owner of a beachfront property in Kawayan, Quezon which she acquired in 2015. Unknown to many, Karissa was only holding the property in trust for a rich politician who happened to be her lover. It was the politician who paid for the full purchase price of the Kawayan property. No deed of trust or any other document showing that Karissa was only holding the property in trust for the politician was executed between him and Karissa. Karissa died single on May 1, 2017 due to a freak surfing accident. She left behind a number of personal properties as well as real properties, including the Kawayan property. Karissa's sister, Karen, took charge of registering Karissa's estate as a taxpayer and reporting, for income tax and VAT purposes, the rental income received by the estate from real properties. However, it was only on October 1, 2017 when Karen managed to file an estate tax return for her sister's estate. The following were claimed as deductions in the estate tax return: 1) Funeral expenses amounting to PhP250,000; 2) Medical expenses amounting to PhP100,000, incurred when Karissa was hospitalized for pneumonia a month before her death; and 3) Loss valued at PhP6 million arising from the destruction of Karissa's condominium unit due to fire which occurred on September 15, 2017. (a) Should the beachfront property be included in Karissa's gross estate? (2.5%) (b) Are the claimed deductions proper? (2.5%)

Kria, Inc., a Korean corporation engaged in the business of manufacturing electric vehicles, established a branch office in the Philippines in 2010. The Philippine branch constructed a manufacturing plant in Kabuyao, Laguna, and the construction lasted three (3) years. Commercial operations in the Laguna plant began in 2014. In just two (2) years of operation, the Philippine branch had remittable profits in an amount exceeding 175% of its capital. However, the head office in Korea instructed the branch not to remit the profits to the Korean head office until instructed otherwise. The branch chief finance officer is concerned that the BIR might hold the Philippine branch liable for the 10% improperly accumulated earnings tax (IAET) for permitting its profits to accumulate beyond reasonable business needs. (a) Is the Philippine branch of Kria subject to the 10% IAET under the circumstances stated above? (2.5%) (b) Is it subject to 15% branch profit remittance tax (BPRT)? (2.5%)

Spouses Konstantino and Karina are Filipino citizens and are principal shareholders of a restaurant chain, Karina's, Inc. The restaurant's principal office is in Makati City, Philippines. Korina's became so popular as a Filipino restaurant that the owners decided to expand its operations overseas. During the period 2010-2015 alone, it opened ten (10) stores throughout North America and five (5) stores in various parts of Europe where there were large Filipino communities. Each store abroad was in the name of a corporation organized under the laws of the state or country in which the store was located. All stores had identical capital structures: 60% of the outstanding capital stock was owned by Karina's, Inc., while the remaining 40% was owned directly by the spouses Konstantino and Korina. Beginning 2017, in light of the immigration policy enunciated by US President Donald Trump, many Filipinos have since returned to the Philippines and the number of Filipino immigrants in the US dropped significantly. On account of these developments, Konstantino and Karina decided to sell their shares of stock in the five (5) US corporations that were doing poorly in gross sales. The spouses' lawyer-friend advised them that they will be taxed 5% on the first PhP100,000 net capital gain, and 10% on the net capital gain in excess of PhP100,000. Is the lawyer correct? If not, how should the spouses Konstantino and Karina be taxed on the sale of their shares? (5%)

Years ago, Krisanto bought a parcel of land in Muntinlupa for only P65,000. He donated the land to his son, Kornelio, in 1980 when the property had a fair market value of P75,000 and paid the corresponding donor's tax. Kornelio, in turn, sold the property in 2000 to Katrina for P6.5 million and paid the capital gains tax, documentary stamp tax, local transfer tax, and other fees and charges. Katrina, in turn, donated the land to Klaret School last August 30, 2017 to be used as the site for additional classrooms. No donor's tax was paid, because Katrina claimed that the donation was exempt from taxation. At the time of the donation to Klaret School, the land had a fair market value of P65 million. (a) Is Katrina liable for donor's tax? (2.5%) (b) How much in deduction from gross income may Katrina claim on account of the said donation? (2.5%)

Kim, a Filipino national, worked with K-Square, Inc. (KSI), and was seconded to various KSI-affiliated corporations: 1) from 1999 to 2004 as Vice President of K-Gold Inc., 2) from 2004 to 2007 as Vice President of KPB Bank; 3) from 2007 to 2011 as CEO of K-Com Inc.; 4) from 2011 to 2017 as CEO of K-Water Corporation, where Kim served as CEO for seven years until his retirement last December 12, 2017 upon reaching the compulsory retirement age of 60 years. All the corporations mentioned are majority-owned in common by the Koh family and covered by a BIR-qualified multi employer-employee retirement plan (MEERP), under which the employees may be moved around within the controlled group (i.e., from one KSI subsidiary or affiliate to another) without loss of seniority rights or break in the tenure. Kim was well-loved by his employer and colleagues, so upon retirement, and on his last day in office, KSI gave him a Mercedes Benz car worth P5 million as a surprise, with a streamer that reads: "You'll be missed. Good luck, Sir Kim." (a) Are the retirement benefits paid to Kim pursuant to the MEERP taxable? (2.5%) (b) Which internal revenue tax, if any, will apply to the grant of the car to Kim by the company? (2.5%)

Kronge Konsult, Inc. (KKI) is a Philippine corporation engaged in architectural design, engineering, and construction work. Its principal office is located in Makati City, but it has various infrastructure projects in the country and abroad. Thus, KKI employs both local and foreign workers. The company has adopted a policy that the employees' salaries are paid in the currency of the country where they are assigned or detailed. Below are some of the employees of KKI. Determine whether the compensation they received from KKI in 2017 is taxable under Philippine laws and whether they are required to file tax returns with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). (2% each) (a) Kris Konejero, a Filipino accountant in KKI's Tax Department in the Makati office, and married to a Filipino engineer also working in KKI; (b) Klaus Kloner, a German national who heads KKI's Design Department in its Makati office; (c) Krisanto Konde, a Filipino engineer in KKI's Design Department who was hired to work at the principal office last January 2017. In April 2017, he was assigned and detailed in the company's project in Jakarta, Indonesia, which project is expected to be completed in April 2019; (d) Kamilo Konde, Krisanto's brother, also an engineer assigned to KKI's project in Taipei, Taiwan. Since KKI provides for housing and other basic needs, Kamila requested that all his salaries, paid in Taiwanese dollars, be paid to his wife in Manila in its Philippine Peso equivalent; and (e) Karen Karenina, a Filipino architect in KKI's Design Department who reported back to KKI's Makati office in June 2017 after KKI's project in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia was completed.

(a) Differentiate outright smuggling from technical smuggling. (3%) (b) Distinguish compromise from abatement of taxes. (3%)

CMI School, Inc., a non-stock, non-profit corporation, donated its three parcels of idle land situated in the Municipality of Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija to SLC University, another non-stock, non-profit corporation, in recognition of the latter's contribution to and participation in the spiritual and educational development of the former. (a) Is CMI School, Inc. liable for the payment of donor's tax? Explain your answer. (2.5%) (b) If SLC University later sells the three parcels of idle land to Puregold Supermarket, Inc., a stock corporation, will SLC University be liable for capital gains tax? Explain your answer. (3%) (c) If SLC University donates the three parcels of idle land in favor of the Municipality of Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, will SLC University be liable for donor's tax? Explain your answer. (2.5%)

Globesmart Services, Inc. received a final assessment notice with formal letter of demand from the BIR for deficiency income tax, value-added tax and withholding tax for the taxable year 2016 amounting to P48 million. Globesmart Services, Inc. filed a protest against the assessment, but the Commissioner of Internal Revenue denied the protest. Hence, Globesmart Services, Inc. filed a petition for review in the CTA with an urgent motion to suspend the collection of tax. After hearing, the CTA Division issued a resolution granting the motion to suspend but required Globesmart Services, Inc. to post a surety bond equivalent to the deficiency assessment within 15 days from notice of the resolution. Globesmart Services, Inc. moved for the partial reconsideration of the resolution and for the reduction of the bond to an amount it could obtain. The CTA Division issued another resolution reducing the amount of the surety bond to P24 million. The latter amount was still more than the net worth of Globesmart Services, Inc. as reported in its audited financial statements. (a) May the collection of taxes be suspended? Explain your answer. (3%) (b) Is the CTA Division justified in requiring Globesmart Services, Inc. to post a surety bond as a condition for the suspension of the deficiency tax collection? Explain your answer. (3%)

BATAS Law is a general professional partnership operating in the City of Valenzuela. It regularly pays value-added tax on its services. All its lawyers have individually paid the required professional tax for the year 2017. However, as a condition for the renewal of its business permit for the year 2017, the City Treasurer of Valenzuela assessed BATAS Law for the payment of percentage business tax on its gross receipts for the year 2016 in accordance with the Revenue Tax Code of Valenzuela. Is BATAS Law liable to pay the assessed percentage business tax? Explain your answer. (3%)

On September 17, 2015, Data Realty, Inc., a real-estate corporation duly organized and existing under Philippine law, sold to Jenny Vera a condominium unit at Freedom Residences in Malabon City with an area of 32.31 square meters for a contract price of P4,213,000.00. The condominium unit had a zonal value amounting to P2,877,000.00 and fair market value amounting to P550,000.00. (a) Is the transaction subject to value-added tax and documentary stamp tax? Explain your answer. (3%) (b) Would your answer be the same if the property was sold by a bank in a foreclosure sale? Explain your answer. (3%)

The Board of Directors of Sumo Corporation, a company primarily engaged in the business of marketing and distributing pest control products, approved the partial cessation of its commercial operations, resulting in the separation of 32 regular employees. Only half of the affected employees were notified of the board resolution. Rule on the taxability of the separation pay and indemnity that will be received by the affected employees as the result of their separation from service. Explain your answer. (3%)

On January 27, 2017, Ramon, the comptroller of Vantage Point, Inc., executed a document entitled Waiver of the Statute of Limitations in connection with the BIR's investigation of the tax liabilities of the company for the year 2012. However, the Board of Directors of Vantage Point, Inc. did not adopt a board resolution authorizing Ramon to execute the waiver. On October 14, 2017, Vantage Point, Inc. received a preliminary assessment notice from the BIR indicating its deficiency withholding taxes for the year 2012. Vantage Point, Inc. filed its protest. On October 30, 2017, the BIR issued a formal letter of demand and final assessment notice. Vantage Point, Inc. again filed a protest. The Commissioner of Internal Revenue denied the protests and directed the collection of the assessed deficiency taxes. Accordingly, Vantage Point, Inc. filed a petition for review in the CTA to seek the cancellation and withdrawal of the assessment on the ground of prescription. (a) What constitutes a valid waiver of the statute of limitations for the assessment and collection of taxes? Explain your answer. (3%) (b) Has the right of the Government to assess and collect deficiency taxes from Vantage Point, Inc. for the year 2012 prescribed? Explain your answer. (3%)

Upon his retirement, Alfredo transferred his savings derived from his salary as a marketing assistant to a time deposit with AAB Bank. The bank regularly deducted 20% final withholding tax on the interest income from the time deposit. Alfredo contends that the 20% final tax on the interest income constituted double taxation because his salary had been already subjected to withholding tax. Is Alfredo's contention correct? Explain your answer. (3%)

On April 30, 2015, Daryl resigned as the production manager of 52nd Avenue, a television studio owned by SSS Entertainment Corporation. 52nd Avenue issued to her a Certificate of Withholding Tax on Compensation (BIR Form No. 2316), which showed that the tax withheld from her compensation was equal to her income tax due for the period from January 2015 to April 30, 2015. A month after her resignation, Daryl put up her own studio and started producing short films. She was able to earn a meager income from her short films but did not keep record of her production expenses. Is Daryl qualified for substituted filing for taxable year 2015? Explain your answer. (3%)

Calvin Dela Pisa was a Permits and Licensing Officer (rank-and-file) of Sta. Portia Realty Corporation (SPRC). He invited the Regional Director of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) to a lunch at the Sulo Hotel in Quezon City to discuss the approval of SPRC's application for a development permit in connection with its subdivision development project in Pasig City. At breakfast the following day, Calvin met a prospective client interested to enter into a joint venture with SPRC for the construction of a residential condominium unit in Cainta, Rizal. Calvin incurred expenses for the lunch and breakfast meetings he had with the Regional Director of HLURB and the prospective client, respectively. The expenses were duly supported by official receipts issued in his name. At month's end, he requested the reimbursement of his expenses, and SPRC granted his request. (a) Can SPRC claim an allowable deduction for the expenses incurred by Calvin? Explain your answer. (2.5%) (b) Is the reimbursement received by Calvin from SPRC subject to tax? Explain your answer. (2.5%)

Heeding the pronouncement of the President that the worsening traffic condition in the metropolis was a sign of economic progress, the Congress enacted Republic Act No. 10701 (RA 10701), also known as An Act Imposing a Transport Tax on the Purchase of Private Vehicles. Under R.A. No. 10701, buyers of private vehicles are required to pay a transport tax equivalent to 5% of the total purchase price per vehicle purchased. R.A. No. 10701 provides that the Land Transportation Office (LTO) shall not accept for registration any new vehicles without proof of payment of the 5% transport tax. R.A. No. 10701 further provides that existing owners of private vehicles shall be required to pay a tax equivalent to 5% of the current fair market value of every vehicle registered with the LTO. However, R.A. No. 10701 exempts owners of public utility vehicles and the Government from the coverage of the 5% transport tax. A group of private vehicle owners sue on the ground that the law is unconstitutional for contravening the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution. Rule on the constitutionality and validity of RA 10701. (5%)

On March 30, 2016, XL Co. filed an administrative claim for refund of unutilized input VAT for taxable year 2014, together with supporting documents. XL Co. claimed that its sale of generated power and delivery of electric capacity and energy was VAT zero-rated. Due to the inaction of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR), XL Co. filed with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) the following judicial claims for refund: Period Covered — Date Filed 1st Quarter of 2014 — March 31, 2016 2nd Quarter of 2014 — June 30, 2016 3rd and 4th Quarter of 2014 — August 12, 2016 Is XL Co.'s claim for VAT refund timely filed? Explain your answer. (5%)

On the basis of a warrant of seizure and detention issued by the Collector of Customs for the purpose of enforcing the Tariff and Customs Code, assorted brands of liquor and cigarettes said to have been illegally imported into the Philippines were seized from a store operating in a Freeport zone. The store owner moved for the quashal of the warrant on the ground that the Collector of Customs had no jurisdiction to enforce it within the Freeport zone. Should the motion to quash be granted? (3%)

Vanderful, Inc.'s income tax return for taxable year 2015 showed an overpayment due to excess creditable withholding taxes in the amount of P750,000.00. The company opted to carry over the excess income tax credits as tax credit against its quarterly income tax liabilities for the next succeeding years. For taxable year 2016, the company's income tax return showed an overpayment due to excess creditable withholding taxes in the amount of P1,100,000.00, which included the carry-over from year 2015 in the amount of P750,000.00 because its operations resulted in a net loss; hence, there was no application for any tax liability. This time, the company opted and marked the box "To be refunded" in respect of the total amount of P1,100,000.00. Vanderful, Inc. now files in the BIR a claim for refund of unutilized overpayments of P1,100,00.00. Is the claim meritorious? (4%)

Wreck Corporation is a domestic corporation engaged in the business of importing, refining and selling petroleum products. During the period from September 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014, Wreck Corporation imported 225 million liters of Jet A-1 aviation fuel and paid the excise taxes thereon. Seventy-five percent (75%) of the total volume of aviation fuel imported were actually sold to international carriers of Philippine and foreign registries for their use or consumption outside of the Philippines in the period from November 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014. Wreck Corporation did not pass on to the international carriers the excise taxes it paid on the importation of petroleum products. On June 25, 2015, Wreck Corporation filed an administrative claim for refund or issuance of tax credit certificate amounting to the excise taxes it had paid on the importation of 225 million liters of Jet A-1 aviation fuel. If you were the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, will you grant Wreck Corporation's administrative claim for refund or issuance of tax credit certificate? Explain your answer. (6%)

SMZ, Inc. is a VAT-registered enterprise engaged in the general construction business. HP International contracts the services of SMZ, Inc. to construct HP International's factory building located in the Laguna Techno Park, a special economic zone. HP International is registered with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) as an ecozone export enterprise, and, as such, enjoys income tax holiday pursuant to the Special Economic Zone Act of 1995. SMZ, Inc. files an application with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for the VAT zero-rating of its sale of services to HP International. However, the BIR denies SMZ, Inc.'s application on the ground that HP International already enjoys income tax holiday. Is the BIR correct in denying SMZ, Inc.'s application? Explain your answer. (6%)

Casimira died on June 19, 2017 after three weeks of confinement due to an unsuccessful liver transplant. For her confinement, she had incurred substantial medical expenses that she financed through personal loans secured by mortgages on her real properties. Her heirs are still in the process of making an inventory of her assets that can be used to pay the estate taxes, if any, which are due on December 19, 2017. (a) Are the medical expenses, personal loans and mortgages incurred by Casimira deductible from her gross estate? Explain your answer. (5%) (b) May the heirs of Casimira file the estate tax return and pay the corresponding estate tax beyond December 19, 2017 without incurring interest and surcharge? Explain your answer. (3%)

The BIR assessed the Babuyan Water District (BWD) with deficiency income taxes amounting to P8.5 million, inclusive of interest and surcharge. The BWD disputed the assessment, and argued that it was a wholly-owned government entity performing essential government functions. However, the BIR denied the protest. The BWD filed a petition for arbitration in the Office of the Secretary of Justice pursuant to Sections 66 to 71, Chapter 14, Book IV of the Administrative Code of 1987 to assail the denial of its protest, and to seek the proper interpretation of Section 32(8)(7)(b) of the Tax Code that excluded from gross income the income derived by the Government or its political subdivisions. The Secretary of Justice rendered a decision declaring the BWD exempt from the payment of income tax. The Commissioner of Internal Revenue appealed to the CTA on the sole ground that the Secretary of Justice had no jurisdiction to review the assessment of the BIR. Is the appeal meritorious? Explain your answer. (4%)

San Juan University is a non-stock, non-profit educational institution. It owns a piece of land in Caloocan City on which its three 2-storey school buildings stood. Two of the buildings are devoted to classrooms, laboratories, a canteen, a bookstore and administrative offices. The third building is reserved as dormitory for student athletes who are granted scholarships for a given academic year. In 2017, San Juan University earned income from tuition fees and from leasing a portion of its premises to various concessionaires of food, books, and school supplies. (a) Can the City Treasurer of Caloocan City collect real property taxes on the land and building of San Juan University? Explain your answer. (5%) (b) Is the income earned by San Juan University for the year 2017 subject to income tax? Explain your answer. (5%)

Patrick is a successful businessman in the United States and he is a sole proprietor of a supermarket which has a gross sales of $10 million and an annual income of $3 million. He went to the Philippines on a visit and, in a party, he saw Atty. Agaton who boasts of being a tax expert. Patrick asks Atty. Agaton: if he (Patrick) decides to reacquire his Philippine citizenship under RA 9225, establish residence in this country, and open a supermarket in Makati City, will the BIR tax him on the income he earns from his U.S. business? If you were Atty. Agaton, what advice will you give Patrick? (5%)

The requisites for a valid waiver of the three-year (3-year) prescriptive period for the BIR to assess taxes due in the taxable year are prescribed by Revenue Memorandum Order (RMO) No. 20-90: 1) The waiver must be in the proper form prescribed by RMO 20-90. 2) The waiver must be signed by the taxpayer himself or his duly authorized representative. In the case of a corporation, the waiver must be signed by any of its responsible officials. In case the authority is delegated by the taxpayer to a representative, such delegation should be in writing and duly notarized. 3) The waiver should be duly notarized. 4) The CIR or the revenue official authorized by him must sign the waiver indicating that the BIR has accepted and agreed to the waiver. The date of such acceptance by the BIR should be indicated. However, before signing the waiver, the CIR or the revenue official authorized by him must make sure that the waiver is in the prescribed form, duly notarized, and executed by the taxpayer or his duly authorized representative. 5) Both the date of execution by the taxpayer and date of acceptance by the Bureau should be before the expiration of the period of prescription or before the lapse of the period agreed upon in case a subsequent agreement is executed. 6) The waiver must be executed in three copies, the original copy to be attached to the docket of the case, the second copy for the taxpayer and the third copy for the Office accepting the waiver. The fact of receipt by the taxpayer of his/her file copy must be indicated in the original copy to show that the taxpayer was notified of the acceptance of the BIR and the perfection of the agreement. After being assessed by the BIR with alleged deficiency income taxes, VVV Corporation (VVV) through Enrique, its President, executed a waiver of the prescriptive period. The waiver was signed by Revenue District Officer (RDO) Alfredo. However, the waiver did not state the date of execution by the taxpayer and date of acceptance by the BIR. Enrique was also not furnished a copy of the waiver by the BIR. VVV claims that the waiver is void due to non-compliance with RMO 20-90. Hence, the period for assessment had already prescribed. Moreover, since the assessment involves P2 million, the waiver should have been signed by the CIR and instead of a mere RDO. On the other hand, the BIR contends that the requirements of RMO No. 20-90 are merely directory; that the execution of the waiver by VVV was a renunciation of its right to invoke prescription and that the government cannot be estopped by the mistakes committed by its revenue officers. Is VVV liable? Explain. (5%)

Congress issued a law allowing a 20% discount on the purchases of senior citizens from, among others, recreation centers. This 20% discount can then be used by the sellers as a "tax credit." At the initiative of BIR, however, Republic Act No. (RA) 9257 was enacted amending the treatment of the 20% discount as a "tax deduction." Equity Cinema filed a petition with the RTC claiming that RA 9257 is unconstitutional as it forcibly deprives sellers a part of the price without just compensation. (A) What is the effect of converting the 20% discount from a "tax credit" to a "tax deduction"? (2.5%) (B) If you are the judge, how will you decide the case? Briefly explain your answer. (2.5%)

(A) Explain the procedure for claiming refunds or tax credits of input Value Added Tax (VAT) for zero-rated or effectively zero-rated sales under Sec. 112 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) from the filing of an application with the CIR up to the CTA. (2.5%) (B) Explain the procedure for claiming refunds of tax erroneously or illegally collected under Sec. 229 of the NIRC from the filing of the claim for refunds with the CIR up to the CTA. (2.5%)

The City of Maharlika passed an ordinance imposing a tax on any sale or transfer of real property located within the city at a rate of fifty percent (50%) of one percent (1%) of the total consideration of the transaction. Jose sold a parcel of land in the city, which he inherited from his deceased parents, and refused to pay the aforesaid tax. He instead filed a case asking that the ordinance be declared null and void since the tax it imposed can only be collected by the national government, as in fact he has paid the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) the required capital gains tax. If you were the City Legal Officer of Maharlika, what defenses would you raise to sustain the validity of the ordinance? (5%)

Rakham operates the lending company that made a loan to Alfonso in the amount of P120,000.00 subject of a promissory note which is due within one (1) year from the note's issuance. Three years after the loan became due and upon information that Alfonso is nowhere to be found, Rakham asks you for advice on how to treat the obligation as "bad debt." Discuss the requisites for deductibility of a "bad debt?" (5%)

Sure Arrival Airways (SAA) is a foreign corporation, organized under the laws of the Republic of Nigeria. Its commercial airplanes do not operate within Philippine territory, or service passengers embarking from Philippine airports. The firm is represented in the Philippines by its general agent, Narotel. SAA sells airplane tickets through Narotel, and these tickets are serviced by SAA airplanes outside the Philippines. The total sales of airplane tickets transacted by Narotel for SAA in 2012 amounted to P10,000,000.00. The Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR) assessed SAA deficiency income taxes at the rate of 30% on its taxable income, finding that SAA's airline ticket sales constituted income derived from sources within the Philippines. SAA filed a protest on the ground that the alleged deficiency income taxes should be considered as income derived exclusively from sources outside the Philippines since SAA only serviced passengers outside Philippine territory. It, thus, asserted that the imposition of such income taxes violated the principle of territoriality in taxation. Is the theory of SAA tenable? Explain. (5%)

Briefly explain the following doctrines: lifeblood doctrine; necessity theory; benefits received principle; and, doctrine of symbiotic relationship. (5%)

Soaring Eagle paid its excise tax liabilities with Tax Credit Certificates (TCCs) which it purchased through the One Stop Shop Inter-Agency Tax Credit Center (Center) of the Department of Finance. The Center is a composite body of the DOF, BIR, BOC and the BOI. The TCCs were accepted by the BIR as payments. A year after, the BIR demanded the payment of alleged deficiency excise taxes on the ground that Soaring Eagle is not a qualified transferee of the TCCs it purchased from other BOI-registered companies. The BIR argued that the TCCs are subject to post-audit as a suspensive condition. On the other hand, Soaring Eagle countered that it is a buyer in good faith and for value who merely relied on the Center's representation of the genuineness and validity of the TCCs. Ordered to pay the deficiency, Soaring Eagle claims that the same is confiscatory and a violation of due process. Is the assessment against Soaring Eagle valid? Explain. (5%)

Peter is the Vice-President for Sales of Golden Dragon Realty Conglomerate, Inc. (Golden Dragon). A group of five (5) foreign investors visited the country for possible investment in the condominium units and subdivision lots of Golden Dragon. After a tour of the properties for sale, the investors were wined and dined by Peter at the posh Conrad's Hotel at the cost of P150,000.00. Afterward, the investors were brought to a party in a videoke club which cost the company P200,000.00 for food and drinks, and the amount of P80,000.00 as tips for business promotion officers. Expenses at Conrad's Hotel and the videoke club were receipted and submitted to support the deduction for representation and entertainment expenses. Decide if all the representation and entertainment expenses claimed by Golden Dragon are deductible. Explain. (5%)

Henry, a U.S. naturalized citizen, went home to the Philippines to reacquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. His mother left him a lot and building in Makati City and he wants to make use of it in his trading business. Considering that he needs money for the business, he wants to sell his lot and building and make use of the consideration. However, the lot has sentimental value and he wants to reacquire it in the future. A friend of Henry told him of the "sale-leaseback transaction" commonly used in the U.S., which is also used for tax reduction. Under said transaction, the lot owner sells his property to a buyer on the condition that he leases it back from the buyer. At the same time, the property owner is granted an option to repurchase the lot on or before an agreed date. Henry approaches you as a tax lawyer for advice. Explain what tax benefits, if any, can be obtained by Henry and the buyer from the sale-leaseback transaction? (5%)

Jennifer is the only daughter of Janina who was a resident in Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. Janina died in the U.S. leaving to Jennifer one million shares of Sun Life (Philippines), Inc., a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines. Said shares were held in trust for Janina by the Corporate Secretary of Sun Life and the latter can vote the shares and receive dividends for Janina. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the U.S. taxed the shares on the ground that Janina was domiciled in the U.S. at the time of her death. (A) Can the CIR of the Philippines also tax the same shares? Explain. (2.5%) (B) Explain the concept of double taxation. (2.5%)

Pursuant to Sec. 11 of the "Host Agreement" between the United Nations and the Philippine government, it was provided that the World Health Organization (WHO), "its assets, income and other properties shall be : a) exempt from all direct and indirect taxes." Precision Construction Corporation (PCC) was hired to construct the WHO Medical Center in Manila. Upon completion of the building, the BIR assessed a 12% VAT on the gross receipts of PCC derived from the construction of the WHO building. The BIR contends that the 12% VAT is neither a direct nor an indirect tax on the WHO but a tax that is primarily due from the contractor and is therefore not covered by the Host Agreement. The WHO argues that the VAT is deemed an indirect tax as PCC can shift the tax burden to it. Is the BIR correct? Explain. (5%)

State at least five (5) cases under the exclusive appellate jurisdiction of the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA). (5%)

Mapagbigay Corporation grants all its employees (rank and file, supervisors, and managers) 5% discount of the purchase price of its products. During an audit investigation, the BIR assessed the company the corresponding tax on the amount equivalent to the courtesy discount received by all the employees, contending that the courtesy discount is considered as additional compensation for the rank and file employees and additional fringe benefit for the supervisors and managers. In its defense, the company argues that the discount given to the rank and file employees is a de minimis benefit and not subject to tax. As to its managerial employees, it contends that the discount is nothing more than a privilege and its availment is restricted. Is the BIR assessment correct? Explain. (5%)

Lucky V Corporation (Lucky) owns a 10-storey building on a 2,000 square meter lot in the City of Makati. It sold the lot and building to Rainier for P80 million. One month after, Rainier sold the lot and building to Healthy Smoke Company (HSC) for P200 million. Lucky filed its annual tax return and declared its gain from the sale of the lot and building in the amount of P750,000.00. An investigation conducted by the BIR revealed that two months prior to the sale of the properties to Rainier, Lucky received P40 million from HSC and not from Rainier. Said amount of P40 million was debited by HSC and reflected in its trial balance as "other inv. - Lucky Bldg." The month after, another P40 million was reflected in HSC's trial balance as "other inv. - Lucky Bldg." The BIR concluded that there is tax evasion since the real buyer of the properties of Lucky is HSC and not Rainier. It issued an assessment for deficiency income tax in the amount of P79 million against Lucky. Lucky argues that it resorted to tax avoidance or a tax saving device, which is allowed by the NIRC and BIR rules since it paid the correct taxes based on its sale to Rainier. On the other hand, Rainier and HSC also paid the prescribed taxes arising from the sale by Rainier to HSC. Is the BIR correct in assessing taxes on Lucky? Explain. (5%)

Amor Powers, Inc. (API) is a domestic corporation registered with the BIR as a value-added taxpayer. API incurred excess input VAT in the amount of P500,000,000.00 on August 3, 2008. Hence, it filed with the BIR an administrative claim for the refund or credit of these input taxes on August 15, 2010. Without waiting for the CIR to act on its claim, API filed a Petition for Review with the CTA on September 15, 2010 before the lapse of two years after the close of the taxable quarter concerned. In its Comment on the Petition, the CIR argues that API's Petition should be dismissed as it was filed before the lapse of the 120-day period given to the CIR by Sec. 112(D) of the NIRC, which became effective on January 1, 1998. For the CIR, the 120-day period is mandatory and jurisdictional so that any suit filed before its expiration is premature and, therefore, dismissible. API, on the other hand, invokes BIR Ruling No. DA-489-03 issued by the CIR on December 10, 2003 in answer to a query posed by the Department of Finance regarding the propriety of the actions taken by Lazi Bay Resources Development, Inc., which filed an administrative claim for refund with the CIR and, before the lapse of the 120-day period from its filing, filed a judicial claim with the CTA. BIR Ruling No. DA-489-03 stated that the taxpayer-claimant need not wait for the lapse of the 120-day period before it could seek judicial relief with the CTA. Will API's Petition for Review prosper? Decide with reasons. (5%)

The Philippine-British Association, Inc. (Association) is a non-stock, non-profit organization which owns the St. Michael's Hospital (Hospital). Sec. 216 in relation to Sec. 215 of the LGC classifies all lands, buildings and other improvements thereon actually, directly, and exclusively used for hospitals as "special." A special classification prescribes a lower assessment than a commercial classification. Within the premises of the Hospital, the Association constructed the St. Michael's Medical Arts Center (Center) which will house medical practitioners who will lease the spaces therein for their clinics at prescribed rental rates. The doctors who treat the patients confined in the Hospital are accredited by the Association. The City Assessor classified the Center as "commercial" instead of "special" on the ground that the Hospital owner gets income from the lease of its spaces to doctors who also entertain out-patients. Is the City Assessor correct in classifying the Center as "commercial?" Explain. (5%)

In 2011, Solar Computer Corporation (Solar) purchased a proprietary membership share covered by Membership Certificate No. 8 from the Mabuhay Golf Club, Inc. for P500,000.00. On December 27, 2012, it transferred the same to David, its American consultant, to enable him to avail of the facilities of the Club. David executed a Deed of Declaration of Trust and Assignment of Shares wherein he acknowledged the absolute ownership of Solar over the share; that the assignment was without any consideration; and that the share was placed in his name because the Club required it to be done. In 2013, the value of the share increased to P800,000.00. Is the said assignment a "gift" and, therefore, subject to gift tax? Explain. (5%)

Philippine National Railways (PNR) operates the rail transport of passengers and goods by providing train stations and freight customer facilities from Tutuban, Manila to the Bicol Province. As the operator of the railroad transit, PNR administers the land, improvements and equipment within its main station in Tutuban, Manila. Invoking Section 193 of the Local Government Code (LGC) expressly withdrawing the tax exemption privileges of government-owned and controlled corporations upon the effectivity of the Code in 1992, the City Government of Manila issued Final Notices of Real Estate Tax Deficiency in the amount of P624,000,000.00 for the taxable years 2006 to 2010. On the other hand, PNR, seeking refuge under the principle that the government cannot tax itself, insisted that the PNR lands and buildings are owned by the Republic. Is the PNR exempt from real property tax? Explain your answer. (5%)

Explain the principles of a sound tax system. (3%)

Mr. H decided to sell the house and lot wherein he and his family have lived for the past 10 years, hoping to buy and move to a new house and lot closer to his children's school. Concerned about the capital gains tax that will be due on the sale of their house, Mr. H approaches you as a friend for advice if it is possible for the sale of their house to be exempted from capital gains tax and the conditions they must comply with to avail themselves of said exemption. How will you respond? (4%)

Ms. C, a resident citizen, bought ready-to-wear goods from Ms. B, a nonresident citizen. (A) If the goods were produced from Ms. B's factory in the Philippines, is Ms. B's income from the sale to Ms. C taxable in the Philippines? Explain. (2%) (B) If Ms. B is an alien individual and the goods were produced in her factory in China, is Ms. B's income from the sale of the goods to Ms. C taxable in the Philippines? Explain. (2%)

KKK Corp. secured its Certificate of Incorporation from the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 3, 2013. It commenced business operations on August 12, 2013. In April 2014, Ms. J, an employee of KKK Corp. in charge of preparing the annual income tax return of the corporation for 2013, got confused on whether she should prepare payment for the regular corporate income tax or the minimum corporate income tax. (A) As Ms. J's supervisor, what will be your advice? (2%) (B) What are the distinctions between regular corporate income tax and minimum corporate income tax? (3%)

Under the Tariff and Customs Code, as amended: (A) When does importation begin and when is it deemed terminated? (2%) (B) In what case/s is the decision of the Collector automatically reviewed by the Commissioner of Customs? In what instance/s is the decision of the Commissioner automatically appealed to the Secretary of Finance? (4%)

State the conditions for allowing the following as deductions from the gross estate of a citizen or resident alien for the purpose of imposing estate tax: (A) Claims against the estate (2%) (B) Medical expenses (2%)

MMM, Inc., a domestic telecommunications company, handles incoming telecommunications services for non-resident foreign companies by relaying international calls within the Philippines. To broaden the coverage of its telecommunications services throughout the country, MMM, Inc. entered into various interconnection agreements with local carriers. The non-resident foreign corporations pay MMM, Inc. in US dollars inwardly remitted through Philippine banks, in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. MMM, Inc. filed its Quarterly VAT Returns for 2000. Subsequently, MMM, Inc. timely filed with the BIR an administrative claim for the refund of the amount of P6,321,486.50, representing excess input VAT attributable to its effectively zero-rated sales in 2000. The BIR ruled to deny the claim for refund of MMM, Inc. because the VAT official receipts submitted by MMM, Inc. to substantiate said claim did not bear the words "zero-rated" as required under Section 4.108-1 of Revenue Regulations (RR) No. 7-95. On appeal, the CTA division and the CTA en banc affirmed the BIR ruling. MMM, Inc. appealed to the Supreme Court arguing that the NIRC itself did not provide for such a requirement. RR No. 7-95 should not prevail over a taxpayer's substantive right to claim tax refund or credit. (A) Rule on the appeal of MMM, Inc. (3%) (B) Will your answer in (a) be any different if MMM, Inc. was claiming refund of excess input VAT attributable to its effectively zero-rated sales in 2012? (2%)

After filing an Information for violation of Section 254 of the National Internal Revenue Code (Attempt to Evade or Defeat Tax) with the CTA, the Public Prosecutor manifested that the People is reserving the right to file the corresponding civil action for the recovery of the civil liability for taxes. As counsel for the accused, comment on the People's manifestation. (3%)

In 2014, M City approved an ordinance levying customs duties and fees on goods coming into the territorial jurisdiction of the city. Said city ordinance was duly published on February 15, 2014 with effectivity date on March 1, 2014. (A) Is there a ground for opposing said ordinance? (2%) (B) What is the proper procedural remedy and applicable time periods for challenging the ordinance? (4%)

Mr. L owned several parcels of land and he donated a parcel each to his two children. Mr. L acquired both parcels of land in 1975 for P200,000.00. At the time of donation, the fair market value of the two parcels of land, as determined by the CIR, was P2,300,000.00; while the fair market value of the same properties as shown in the schedule of values prepared by the City Assessors was P2,500,000.00. What is the proper valuation of Mr. L's gifts to his children for purposes of computing donor's tax? (3%)

LLL is a government instrumentality created by Executive Order to be primarily responsible for integrating and directing all reclamation projects for the National Government. It was not organized as a stock or a non-stock corporation, nor was it intended to operate commercially and compete in the private market. By virtue of its mandate, LLL reclaimed several portions of the foreshore and offshore areas of the Manila Bay, some of which were within the territorial jurisdiction of Q City. Certificates of title to the reclaimed properties in Q City were issued in the name of LLL in 2008. In 2014, Q City issued Warrants of Levy on said reclaimed properties of LLL based on the assessment for delinquent property taxes for the years 2010 to 2013. (A) Are the reclaimed properties registered in the name of LLL subject to real property tax? (4%) (B) Will your answer be the same in (a) if from 2010 to the present time, LLL is leasing portions of the reclaimed properties for the establishment and use of popular fastfood restaurants J Burgers, G Pizza, and K Chicken? (2%)

In 2012, Dr. K decided to return to his hometown to start his own practice. At the end of 2012, Dr. K found that he earned gross professional income in the amount of P1,000,000.00; while he incurred expenses amounting to P560,000.00 constituting mostly of his office space rent, utilities, and miscellaneous expenses related to his medical practice. However, to Dr. K's dismay, only P320,000.00 of his expenses were duly covered by receipts. What are the options available for Dr. K so he could maximize the deductions from his gross income? (3%)

What are de minimis benefits and how are these taxed? Give three (3) examples of de minimis benefits. (4%)

Indicate whether each of the following individuals is required or not required to file an income tax return: (A) Filipino citizen residing outside the Philippines on his income from sources outside the Philippines. (1%) (B) Resident alien on income derived from sources within the Philippines. (1%) (C) Resident citizen earning purely compensation income from two employers within the Philippines, whose income taxes have been correctly withheld. (1%) (D) Resident citizen who falls under the classification of minimum wage earners. (1%) (E) An individual whose sole income has been subjected to final withholding tax. (1%)

For calendar year 2011, FFF, Inc., a VAT-registered corporation, reported unutilized excess input VAT in the amount of P1,000,000.00 attributable to its zero-rated sales. Hoping to impress his boss, Mr. G, the accountant of FFF, Inc., filed with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on January 31, 2013 a claim for tax refund/credit of the P1,000,000.00 unutilized excess input VAT of FFF, Inc. for 2011. Not having received any communication from the BIR, Mr. G filed a Petition for Review with the CTA on March 15, 2013, praying for the tax refund/credit of the P1,000,000.00 unutilized excess input VAT of FFF, Inc. for 2011. (A) Did the CTA acquire jurisdiction over the Petition of FFF, Inc.? (2%) (B) Discuss the proper procedure and applicable time periods for administrative and judicial claims for refund/credit of unutilized excess input VAT. (4%)

In June 2013, DDD Corp., a domestic corporation engaged in the business of leasing real properties in the Philippines, entered into a lease agreement of a residential house and lot with EEE, Inc., a non-resident foreign corporation. The residential house and lot will be used by officials of EEE, Inc. during their visit to the Philippines. The lease agreement was signed by representatives from DDD Corp. and EEE, Inc. in Singapore. DDD Corp. did not subject the said lease to VAT believing that it was not a domestic service contract. Was DDD Corp. correct? Explain. (3%)

On May 15, 2013, CCC, Inc. received the Final Decision on Disputed Assessment issued by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR) dismissing the protest of CCC, Inc. and affirming the assessment against said corporation. On June 10, 2013, CCC, Inc. filed a Petition for Review with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) in division. On July 31, 2015, CCC, Inc. received a copy of the Decision dated July 22, 2015 of the CTA division dismissing its Petition. CCC, Inc. immediately filed a Petition for Review with the CTA en banc on August 6, 2015. Is the immediate appeal by CCC, Inc. to the CTA en banc of the adverse Decision of the CTA division the proper remedy? (3%)

Differentiate between double taxation in the strict sense and in a broad sense and give an example of each. (4%)

BBB, Inc., a domestic corporation, enjoyed a particularly profitable year in 2014. In June 2015, its Board of Directors approved the distribution of cash dividends to its stockholders. BBB, Inc. has individual and corporate stockholders. What is the tax treatment of the cash dividends received from BBB, Inc. by the following stockholders: (A) A resident citizen (1%) (B) Non-resident alien engaged in trade or business (1%) (C) Non-resident alien not engaged in trade or business (1%) (D) Domestic corporation (1%) (E) Non-resident foreign corporation (1%)

Mr. E and Ms. F are both employees of AAA Corp. They got married on February 14, 2011. On December 29, 2011, the couple gave birth to triplets. On June 25, 2013, they had twins. What were the personal exemptions/deductions which Mr. E and Ms. F could claim in the following taxable years: (A) For 2010 (2%) (B) For 2011 (3%) (C) For 2013 (2%)

GGG, Inc. offered to sell through competitive bidding its shares in HHH Corp., equivalent to 40% of the total outstanding capital stock of the latter. JJJ, Inc. acquired the said shares in HHH Corp. as the highest bidder. Before it could secure a certificate authorizing registration/tax clearance for the transfer of the shares of stock to JJJ, Inc., GGG, Inc. had to request a ruling from the BIR confirming that its sale of the said shares was at fair market value and was thus not subject to donor's tax. In BIR Ruling No. 012-14, the CIR held that the selling price for the shares of stock of HHH Corp. was lower than their book value, so the difference between the selling price and the book value of said shares was a taxable donation. GGG, Inc. requested the Secretary of Finance to review BIR Ruling No. 012-14, but the Secretary affirmed said ruling. GGG, Inc. filed with the Court of Appeals a Petition for Review under Rule 43 of the Revised Rules of Court. The Court of Appeals, however, dismissed the Petition for lack of jurisdiction declaring that it is the CTA which has jurisdiction over the issues raised. Before which Court should GGG, Inc. seek recourse from the adverse ruling of the Secretary of Finance in the exercise of the latter's power of review? (3%)

Mr. A, a citizen and resident of the Philippines, is a professional boxer. In a professional boxing match held in 2013, he won prize money in United States (US) dollars equivalent to P300,000,000. (A) Is the prize money paid to and received by Mr. A in the US taxable in the Philippines? Why? (2%) (B) May Mr. A's prize money qualify as an exclusion from his gross income? Why? (2%) (C) The US already imposed and withheld income taxes from Mr. A's prize money. How may Mr. A use or apply the income taxes he paid on his prize money to the US when he computes his income tax liability in the Philippines for 2013? (4%)

In January 2013, your friend got his first job as an office clerk. He is single and lives with his family who depends upon him for financial support. His parents have long retired from their work, and his two (2) siblings are still minors and studying in grade school. In February 2014, he consulted you as he wanted to comply with all the rules pertaining to the preparation and filing of his income tax return. He now asks you the following: (A) Is he entitled to personal exemptions? If so, how much? (1%) (B) Is he entitled to additional exemptions? If so, how much? (1%) (C) What is the effect of the taxes withheld from his salaries on his taxable income? (2%)

Doña Evelina, a rich widow engaged in the business of currency exchange, was assessed a considerable amount of local business taxes by the City Government of Bagnet by virtue of Tax Ordinance No. 24. Despite her objections thereto, Doña Evelina paid the taxes. Nevertheless, unsatisfied with said Tax Ordinance, Doña Evelina, through her counsel Atty. ELP, filed a written claim for recovery of said local business taxes and contested the assessment. Her claim was denied, and so Atty. ELP elevated her case to the Regional Trial Court (RTC). The RTC declared Tax Ordinance No. 24 null and void and without legal effect for having been enacted in violation of the publication requirement of tax ordinances and revenue measures under the Local Government Code (LGC) and on the ground of double taxation. On appeal, the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) affirmed the decision of the RTC. No motion for reconsideration was filed and the decision became final and executory. (4%) (A) If you are Atty. ELP, what advice will you give Doña Evelina so that she can recover the subject local business taxes? (B) If Doña Evelina eventually recovers the local business taxes, must the same be considered as income taxable by the national government?

Choose the correct answer. Tax laws - (1%) (A) may be enacted for the promotion of private enterprise or business for as long as it gives incidental advantage to the public or the State (B) are inherently legislative; therefore, may not be delegated (C) are territorial in nature; hence, they do not recognize the generally-accepted tenets of international law (D) adhere to uniformity and equality when all taxable articles or kinds of property of the same class are taxable at the same rate

Freezy Corporation, a domestic corporation engaged in the manufacture and sale of ice cream, made payments to an officer of Frosty Corporation, a competitor in the ice cream business, in exchange for said officer's revelation of Frosty Corporation's trade secrets. May Freezy Corporation claim the payment to the officer as deduction from its gross income? Explain. (4%)

Which of the following transactions is subject to Value-Added Tax (VAT)? (1%) (A) Sale of shares of stock listed and traded through the local stock exchange; (B) Importation of personal and household effects belonging to residents of the Philippines returning from abroad subject to custom duties under the Tariff and Customs Code; (C) Services rendered by individuals pursuant to an employer-employee relationship; (D) Gross receipts from lending activities by credit or multi-purpose cooperatives duly registered with the Cooperative Development Authority;

A, B, and C, all lawyers, formed a partnership called ABC Law Firm so that they can practice their profession as lawyers. For the year 2012, ABC Law Firm received earnings and paid expenses, among which are as follows: (6%) Earnings: (1) Professional/legal fees from various clients (2) Cash prize received from a religious society in recognition of the exemplary service of ABC Law Firm (3) Gains derived from sale of excess computers and laptops Payments: (1) Salaries of office staff (2) Rentals for office space (3) Representation expenses incurred in meetings with clients (A) What are the items in the above mentioned earnings which should be included in the computation of ABC Law Firm's gross income? Explain. (B) What are the items in the above-mentioned payments which may be considered as deductions from the gross income of ABC Law Firm? Explain. (C) If ABC Law Firm earns net income in 2012, what, if any, is the tax consequence on the part of ABC Law Firm insofar as the payment of income tax is concerned? What, if any, is the tax consequence on the part of A, B, and C as individual partners, insofar as the payment of income tax is concerned?

Choose the correct answer. Tax Avoidance - (1%) (A) is a scheme used outside of those lawful means and, when availed of, it usually subjects the taxpayer to further or additional civil or criminal liabilities. (B) is a tax saving device within the means sanctioned by law. (C) is employed by a corporation, the organization of which is prompted more on the mitigation of tax liabilities than for legitimate business purpose. (D) is any form of tax deduction scheme, regardless if the same is legal or not.

Choose the correct answer. Double Taxation - (1%) (A) is one of direct duplicate taxations wherein two (2) taxes must be imposed on the same subject matter, by the same taxing authority, within the same jurisdiction, during the same period, with the same kind or character of tax, even if the purposes of imposing the same are different. (B) is forbidden by law; and therefore, it is a valid defense against the validity of a tax measure. (C) means taxing the same property twice when it should be taxed only once; it is tantamount to taxing the same person twice by the same jurisdiction for the same thing. (D) exists when a corporation is assessed with local business tax as a manufacturer, and at the same time, value-added tax as a person selling goods in the course of trade or business.

On August 31, 2014, Haelton Corporation (HC), thru its authorized representative Ms. Pares, sold a 16-storey commercial building known as Haeltown Building to Mr. Belly for P100 million. Mr. Belly, in turn, sold the same property on the same day to Bell Gates, Inc. (BGI) for P200 million. These two (2) transactions were evidenced by two (2) separate Deeds of Absolute Sale notarized on the same day by the same notary public. Investigations by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) showed that: (1) the Deed of Absolute Sale between Mr. Belly and BGI was notarized ahead of the sale between HC and Mr. Belly; (2) as early as May 17, 2014, HC received P40 million from BGI, and not from Mr. Belly; (3) the said payment of P40 million was recorded by BGI in its books as of June 30, 2014 as investment in Haeltown Building; and (4) the substantial portion of P40 million was withdrawn by Ms. Pares through the declaration of cash dividends to all its stockholders. Based on the foregoing, the BIR sent Haelton Corporation a Notice of Assessment for deficiency income tax arising from an alleged simulated sale of the aforesaid commercial building to escape the higher corporate income tax rate of thirty percent (30%). What is the liability of Haeltown Corporation, if any? (4%)

During his lifetime, Mr. Sakitin obtained a loan amounting to P10 million from Bangko Uno for the purchase of a parcel of land located in Makati City, using such property as collateral for the loan. The loan was evidenced by a duly notarized promissory note. Subsequently, Mr. Sakitin died. At the time of his death, the unpaid balance of the loan amounted to P2 million. The heirs of Mr. Sakitin deducted the amount of P2 million from the gross estate, as part of the "Claims against the Estate." Such deduction was disallowed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Examiner, claiming that the mortgaged property was not included in the computation of the gross estate. Do you agree with the BIR? Explain. (4%)

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No. 65-2012 imposing Value-Added Tax (VAT) on association dues and membership fees collected by condominium corporations from its member condominium-unit owners. The RMC's validity is challenged before the Supreme Court (SC) by the condominium corporations. The Solicitor General, counsel for BIR, claims that association dues, membership fees, and other assessment/charges collected by a condominium corporation are subject to VAT since they constitute income payments or compensation for the beneficial services it provides to its members and tenants. On the other hand, the lawyer of the condominium corporations argues that such dues and fees are merely held in trust by the condominium corporations exclusively for their members and used solely for administrative expenses in implementing the condominium corporations' purposes. Accordingly, the condominium corporations do not actually render services for a fee subject to VAT. Whose argument is correct? Decide. (5%)

Hopeful Corporation obtained a loan from Generous Bank and executed a mortgage on its real property to secure the loan. When Hopeful Corporation failed to pay the loan, Generous Bank extrajudicially foreclosed the mortgage on the property and acquired the same as the highest bidder. A month after the foreclosure, Hopeful Corporation exercised its right of redemption and was able to redeem the property. Is Generous Bank liable to pay capital gains tax as a result of the foreclosure sale? Explain. (4%)

Which of the following should not be claimed as deductions from gross income? (1%) (A) discounts given to senior citizens on certain goods and services. (B) advertising expense to maintain some form of goodwill for the taxpayer's business. (C) salaries and bonuses paid to employees. (D) interest payment on loans for the purchase of machinery and equipment used in business.

Triple Star, a domestic corporation, entered into a Management Service Contract with Single Star, a non-resident foreign corporation with no property in the Philippines. Under the contract, Single Star shall provide managerial services for Triple Star's Hongkong branch. All said services shall be performed in Hongkong. Is the compensation for the services of Single Star taxable as income from sources within the Philippines? Explain. (4%)

Which of the following is an exclusion from gross income? (1%) (A) Salaries and wages (B) Cash dividends (C) Liquidating dividends after dissolution of a corporation (D) De minimis benefits (E) Embezzled money

Mr. Gipit borrowed from Mr. Maunawain P100,000.00, payable in five (5) equal monthly installments. Before the first installment became due, Mr. Gipit rendered general cleaning services in the entire office building of Mr. Maunawain, and as compensation therefor, Mr. Maunawain cancelled the indebtedness of Mr. Gipit up to the amount of P75,000.00. Mr. Gipit claims that the cancellation of his indebtedness cannot be considered as gain on his part which must be subject to income tax, because according to him, he did not actually receive payment from Mr. Maunawain for the general cleaning services. Is Mr. Gipit correct? Explain. (4%)

Masarap Kumain, Inc. (MKI) is a Value-Added Tax (VAT)-registered company which has been engaged in the catering business for the past 10 years. It has invested a substantial portion of its capital on flat wares, table linens, plates, chairs, catering equipment, and delivery vans. MKI sold its first delivery van, already 10 years old and idle, to Magpapala Gravel and Sand Corp. (MGSC), a corporation engaged in the business of buying and selling gravel and sand. The selling price of the delivery van was way below its acquisition cost. Is the sale of the delivery van by MKI to MGSC subject to VAT? (4%)

In accordance with the Local Government Code (LGC), the Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) of Baguio City enacted Tax Ordinance No. 19, Series of 2014, imposing a P50.00 tax on all the tourists and travelers going to Baguio City. In imposing the local tax, the SP reasoned that the tax collected will be used to maintain the cleanliness of Baguio City and for the beautification of its tourist attractions. Claiming the tax to be unjust, Baguio Travelers Association (BTA), an association of travel agencies in Baguio City, filed a petition for declaratory relief before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) because BTA was apprehensive that tourists might cancel their bookings with BTA's member agencies. BTA also prayed for the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) to enjoin Baguio City from enforcing the local tax on their customers and on all tourists going to Baguio City. The RTC issued a TRO enjoining Baguio City from imposing the local tax. Aggrieved, Baguio City filed a petition for certiorari before the Supreme Court (SC) seeking to set aside the TRO issued by the RTC on the ground that collection of taxes cannot be enjoined. Will the petition prosper? (5%)

Choose the correct answer. Smuggling - (1%) (A) does not extend to the entry of imported or exported articles by means of any false or fraudulent invoice, statement or practices; the entry of goods at less than the true weight or measure; or the filing of any false or fraudulent entry for the payment of drawback or refund of duties. (B) is limited to the import of contraband or highly dutiable cargo beyond the reach of customs authorities. (C) is committed by any person who shall fraudulently import or bring into the Philippines, or assist in so doing, any article, contrary to law, or shall receive, conceal, buy, sell or any manner facilitate the transportation, concealment or sale of such article after importation, knowing the same to have been imported contrary to law.

The City of Liwliwa assessed local business taxes against Talin Company. Claiming that there is double taxation, Talin Company filed a Complaint for Refund or Recovery of Illegally and/or Erroneously-collected Local Business Tax; Prohibition with Prayer to Issue Temporary Restraining Order and Writ of Preliminary Injunction with the Regional Trial Court (RTC). The RTC denied the application for a Writ of Preliminary Injunction. Since its motion for reconsideration was denied, Talin Company filed a special civil action for certiorari with the Court of Appeals (CA). The government lawyer representing the City of Liwliwa prayed for the dismissal of the petition on the ground that the same should have been filed with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA). Talin Company, through its lawyer, Atty. Frank, countered that the CTA cannot entertain a petition for certiorari since it is not one of its powers and authorities under existing laws and rules. Decide. (5%)

Gangwam Corporation (GC) filed its quarterly tax returns for the calendar year 2012 as follows: First quarter - April 25, 2012 Second quarter - July 23, 2012 Third quarter - October 25, 2012 Fourth quarter - January 27, 2013 On December 22, 2013, GC filed with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) an administrative claim for refund of its unutilized input Value-Added Tax (VAT) for the calendar year 2012. After several months of inaction by the BIR on its claim for refund, GC decided to elevate its claim directly to the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) on April 22, 2014. In due time, the CTA denied the tax refund relative to the input VAT of GC for the first quarter of 2012, reasoning that the claim was filed beyond the two-year period prescribed under Section 112(A) of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC). (A) Is the CTA correct? (3%) (B) Assuming that GC filed its claim before the CTA on February 22, 2014, would your answer be the same? (3%)

Dr. Taimtim is an alumnus of the College of Medicine of Universal University (UU), a privately-owned center for learning which grants yearly dividends to its stockholders. UU has a famous chapel located within the campus where the old folks used to say that anyone who wanted to pass the medical board examinations should offer a dozen roses on all the Sundays of October. This was what Dr. Taimtim did when he was still reviewing for the board examinations. In his case, the folk saying proved to be true because he is now a successful cardiologist. Wanting to give back to the chapel and help defray the costs of its maintenance, Dr. Taimtim donated P50,000.00 to the caretakers of the chapel which was evidenced by an acknowledgment receipt. In computing his net taxable income, can Dr. Taimtim use his donation to the chapel as an allowable deduction from his gross income under the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC)? (4%)

Mr. De Sarapen is a candidate in the upcoming Senatorial elections. Mr. De Almacen, believing in the sincerity and ability of Mr. De Sarapen to introduce much needed reforms in the country, contributed P500,000.00 in cash to the campaign chest of Mr. De Sarapen. In addition, Mr. De Almacen purchased tarpaulins, t-shirts, umbrellas, caps and other campaign materials that he also donated to Mr. De Sarapen for use in his campaign. Is the contribution of cash and campaign materials subject to donor's tax? (4%)

On March 27, 2012, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued a notice of assessment against Blue Water Industries Inc. (BWI), a domestic corporation, informing the latter of its alleged deficiency corporate income tax for the year 2009. On April 20, 2012, BWI filed a letter protest before the BIR contesting said assessment and demanding that the same be cancelled or set aside. However, on May 19, 2013, that is, after more than a year from the filing of the letter protest, the BIR informed BWI that the latter's letter protest was denied on the ground that the assessment had already become final, executory and demandable. The BIR reasoned that its failure to decide the case within 180 days from filing of the letter protest should have prompted BWI to seek recourse before the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) by filing a petition for review within thirty (30) days after the expiration of the 180-day period as mandated by the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 228 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC). Accordingly, BWI's failure to file a petition for review before the CTA rendered the assessment final, executory and demandable. Is the contention of the BIR correct? Explain. (5%)

Mr. Z made an importation which he declared at the Bureau of Customs (BOC) as "Used Truck Replacement Parts". Upon investigation, the container vans contained 15 units of Porsche and Ferrari cars. Characterize Mr. Z's action. (1%) (A) Mr. Z committed smuggling (Rieta v. People, 436 SCRA 273). (B) Mr. Z did not commit smuggling because he submitted his shipment to BOC examination. (C) Mr. Z only made a misdeclaration, but did not commit smuggling. (D) Mr. Z did not commit smuggling because the shipment has not left the customs area.

The BIR, through the Commissioner, instituted a system requiring taxpayers to submit to the BIR a summary list of their sales and purchases during the year, indicating the name of the seller or the buyer and the amount. Based on these lists, the BIR discovered that in 2004 ABC Corp. purchased from XYZ Corp. goods worth P5,000,000. XYZ Corp. did not declare these for income tax purposes as its reported gross sales for 2004 was only P1,000,000. Which of the following defenses may XYZ Corp. interpose in an assessment against it by the BIR? (1%) (A) The BIR has no authority to obtain third party information to assess taxpayers. (B) The third party information is inadmissible as hearsay evidence. (C) The system of requiring taxpayers to submit third party information is illegal for violating the right to privacy. (D) None of the above. (Sections 5 and 6, NIRC).

Mr. Mayuga donated his residential house and lot to his son and duly paid the donor's tax. In the Deed of Donation, Mr. Mayuga expressly reserved for himself the usufruct over the property for as long as he lived. Describe the donated property from the taxation perspective. (1%) (A) The property will form part of Mr. Mayuga's gross estate when he dies (Section 85 (B), NIRC). (B) The property will not form part of Mr. Mayuga's gross estate when he dies because he paid the donor's tax. (C) The property will form part of Mr. Mayuga's gross estate because he died soon after the donation. (D) The property will not form part of Mr. Mayuga's gross estate because it is no longer his.

Aleta sued Boboy for breach of promise to marry. Boboy lost the case and duly paid the court's award that included, among others, P100,000 as moral damages for the mental anguish Aleta suffered. Did Aleta earn a taxable income? (1%) (A) She had a taxable income of P100,000 since income is income from whatever source. (B) She had no taxable income because it was a donation. (C) She had taxable income since she made a profit. (D) She had no taxable income since moral damages are compensatory (Section 32 (B)(4), NIRC).

Pheleco is a power generation and distribution company operating mainly from the City of Taguig. It owns electric poles which it also rents out to other companies that use poles such as telephone and cable companies. Taguig passed an ordinance imposing a fee equivalent to 1% of the annual rental for these poles. Pheleco questioned the legality of the ordinance on the ground that it imposes an income tax which local government units (LGUs) are prohibited from imposing. Rule on the validity of the ordinance. (1%) (A) The ordinance is void; the fee is based on rental income and is therefore a tax on income. (B) The ordinance is valid as a legitimate exercise of police power to regulate electric poles (Section 129, R.A. No. 7160). (C) The ordinance is void; 1% of annual rental is excessive and oppressive. (D) The ordinance is valid; an LGU may impose a tax on income.

The spouses Jun and Elvira Sandoval purchased a piece of land for P5,000,000 and included their two (2) minor children as co-purchasers in the Deed of Absolute Sale. The Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR) ruled that there was an implied donation and assessed donors' taxes against the spouses. Rule on the CIR's action. (1%) (A) The CIR is wrong; a donation must be express. (B) The CIR is wrong; financial capacity is not a requirement for a valid sale. (C) The CIR is correct; the amount involved is huge and ultimately ends up with the children. (D) The CIR is correct; there was animus donandi since the children had no financial capacity to be co-purchasers (Spouses Evono v. DOF, CTA EB Case No. 705, 4 June 2012).

MSI Corp. imports orange and lemon concentrates as raw materials for the fruit drinks it sells locally. The Bureau of Customs (BOC) imposed a 1% duty rate on the concentrates. Subsequently, the BOC changed its position and held that the concentrates should be taxed at 7% duty rate. MSI disagreed with the ruling and questioned it in the CTA which upheld MSI's position. The Commissioner of Customs appealed to the CTA en banc without filing a motion for reconsideration. Resolve the appeal. (1%) (A) The appeal should be dismissed because a motion for reconsideration is mandatory (Rule 8, Revised Rules of the CTA). (B) The appeal should be dismissed for having been filed out of time. (C) The appeal should be given due course since a motion for reconsideration is a useless exercise. (D) The appeal should be upheld to be fair to the government which needs taxes.

Taxpayer Andy received on January 3, 2010 a preliminary assessment notice (PAN) from the BIR, stating that he had fifteen (15) days from its receipt to comment or to file a protest. Eight (8) days later (or on January 11, 2010), before he could comment or file a protest, Andy received the final assessment notice (FAN). Decide on the validity of the FAN. (1%) (A) The FAN is invalid; Andy was not given the chance to respond to the PAN, in violation of his due process rights (Section 228, NIRC; RR No. 12-99). (B) The FAN is invalid for being premature. (C) The FAN is valid since it was issued before the right to assess prescribed. (D) The FAN is valid. There is no legal requirement that the FAN should await the protest to the PAN because protest to the PAN is not mandatory.

Taxpayer A was required by the BIR to sign and submit a waiver of the statute of limitations on the assessment period, to give the BIR more time to complete its investigation. The BIR accepted the waiver but failed to indicate the date of its acceptance. What is the legal status of the waiver? (1%) (A) The waiver is valid because the date of acceptance is immaterial and unimportant. (B) The waiver is invalid; the taxpayer cannot be required to waive the statute of limitations. (C) The waiver is invalid; the date of acceptance is crucial in counting the start of the period of suspension of the prescriptive period (CIR v. Kudos Metal Corp., 620 SCRA 232). (D) The waiver is valid, having been accepted by the BIR.

PRT Corp. purchased a residential house and lot with a swimming pool in an upscale subdivision and required the company president to stay there without paying rent; it reasoned out that the company president must maintain a certain image and be able to entertain guests at the house to promote the company's business. The company president declared that because they are childless, he and his wife could very well live in a smaller house. Was there a taxable fringe benefit? (1%) (A) There was no taxable fringe benefit since it was for the convenience of the employer and was necessary for its business (Section 33, NIRC; RR No. 3-98). (B) There was a taxable fringe benefit since the stay at the house was for free. (C) There was a taxable fringe benefit because the house was very luxurious. (D) There was no taxable fringe benefit because the company president was only required to stay there and did not demand free housing.

You are the retained tax counsel of ABC Corp. Your client informed you that they have been directly approached with a proposal by a BIR insider (i.e., a middle rank BIR official) on the tax matter they have referred to you for handling. The BIR insider's proposal is to settle the matter by significantly reducing the assessment, but he will get 50% of the savings arising from the reduced assessment. What tax, criminal and ethical considerations will you take into account in giving your advice? Explain the relevance of each of these considerations. (9%)

Prior to the VAT law, sales of cars were subject to a sales tax but the tax applied only to the original or the first sale; the second and subsequent sales were not subject to tax. Deltoid Motors, Inc. (Deltoid) hit on the idea of setting up a wholly-owned subsidiary, Gonmad Motors, Inc. (Gonmad), and of selling its assembled cars to Gonmad at a low price so it would pay a lower tax on the first sale. Gonmad would then sell the cars to the public at a higher price without paying any sales tax on this subsequent sale. Characterize the arrangement. (1%) (A) The plan is a legitimate exercise of tax planning and merely takes advantage of a loophole in the law. (B) The plan is legal because the government collects taxes anyway. (C) The plan is improper; the veil of corporate fiction can be pierced so that the second sale will be considered the taxable sale (Koppel Philippines Incorporated Inc. v. Yatco, 727 Phil. 496). (D) The government must respect Gonmad's separate juridical personality and Deltoid's taxable sale to it.

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 requested permission? (1%) (A) It should grant 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.

The municipality of San Isidro passed an ordinance imposing a tax on installation managers. At that time, there was only one installation manager in the municipality; thus, only he would be liable for the tax. Is the law constitutional? (1%) (A) It is unconstitutional because it clearly discriminates against this person. (B) It is unconstitutional for lack of legal basis (C) It is constitutional as it applies to all persons in that class (Shell Company of P.I. v. Vano, 94 Phil. 387). (D) It is constitutional because the power to tax is the power to destroy.

Mr. Alvarez is in the retail business. He received a deficiency tax assessment from the BIR containing only the computation of the deficiency tax and the penalties, without any explanation of the factual and legal bases for the assessment. Is the assessment valid? (1%) (A) The assessment is valid; all that Mr. Alvarez has to know is the amount of the tax. (B) The assessment is invalid; the law requires a statement of the facts and the law upon which the assessment is based (Section 228, NIRC, as amended). (C) The assessment is valid but Mr. Alvarez can still contest it. (D) The assessment is invalid because Mr. Alvarez has no way to determine if the computation is erroneous.

Congress passed a sin tax law that increased the 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 out of business because it would not be able to pay the increased tax. The cigarette company is _____ (1%) (A) wrong because taxes are the lifeblood of the government (B) wrong because the law recognizes that the power to tax is the power to destroy (McCulloch v. Maryland, 17 U.S. 4 Wheat. 316., 1819). (C) correct because no government can deprive a person of his livelihood (D) correct because Congress, in this case, exceeded its power to tax

Mr. Alas sells 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 being subjected to double taxation. What advice will you give him? (1%) (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 this 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 (CIR v. Solidbank Corp., G.R. No. 148191, 25 November 2003).

In 2010, Mr. Platon sent his sister Helen $1,000 via a telegraphic transfer through the Bank of PI. The bank's remittance clerk made a mistake and credited Helen with $1,000,000 which she promptly withdrew. The bank demanded the return of the mistakenly credited excess, but Helen refused. The BIR entered the picture and investigated Helen. Would the BIR be correct if it determines that Helen earned taxable income under these facts? (1%) (A) No, she had no income because she had no right to the mistakenly credited funds. (B) Yes, income is income regardless of the source. (Javier v. CIR, 199 SCRA 824). (C) No, it was not her fault that the funds in excess of $1,000 were credited to her. (D) No, the funds in excess of $1,000 were in effect donated to her.

A group of philanthropists organized a non-stock, non-profit hospital for charitable purposes to provide medical services to the poor. The hospital also accepted paying patients although none of its income accrued to any private individual; all income were plowed back for the hospital's use and not more than 30% of its funds were used for administrative purposes. Is the hospital subject to tax on its income? If it is, at what rate? (6%)

ABC Corporation is registered as a holding company and has an office in the City of Makati. It has no actual business operations. It invested in another company and its earnings are limited to dividends from this investment, interests on its bank deposits, and foreign exchange gains from its foreign currency account. The City of Makati assessed ABC Corporation as a contractor or one that sells services for a fee. Is the City of Makati correct? (6%)

MGC Corp. secured an income tax holiday for 5 years as a pioneer industry. On the fourth year of the tax holiday, MGC Corp. declared and paid cash dividends to its stockholders, all of whom are individuals. Are the dividends taxable? (1%) (A) The dividends are taxable; the tax exemption of MGC Corp. does not extend to its stockholders (Sunio v. NLRC, G.R. No. 57767, 31 January 1984). (B) The dividends are tax exempt because of MGC Corp.'s income tax holiday. (C) The dividends are taxable if they exceed 50% of MGC Corp.'s retained earnings. (D) The dividends are exempt if paid before the end of MGC Corp.'s fiscal year.

ABC Corp. was dissolved and liquidating dividends were declared and paid to the stockholders. What tax consequence follows? (1%) (A) ABC Corp. should deduct a final tax of 10% from the dividends. (B) The stockholders should declare their gain from their investment and pay income tax at the ordinary rates (BIR Ruling 39-02, 11 November 2002). (C) The dividends are exempt from tax. (D) ABC Corp. should withhold a 10% creditable tax.

In 2000, Mr. Belen bought a residential house and lot for P1,000,000. He used the property as his and his family's principal residence. It is now year 2013 and he is thinking of selling the property to buy a new one. He seeks your advice on how much income tax he would pay if he sells the property. The total zonal value of the property is P5,000,000 and the fair market value per the tax declaration is P2,500,000. He intends to sell it for P6,000,000. What material considerations will you take into account in computing the income tax? Please explain the legal relevance of each of these considerations. (7%)

In 2010, pursuant to a Letter of Authority (LA) issued by the Regional Director, Mr. Abcede was assessed for deficiency income taxes by the BIR for the year 2009. He paid the deficiency. In 2011, Mr. Abcede received another LA for the same year 2009, this time from the National Investigation Division, on the ground that Mr. Abcede's 2009 return was fraudulent. Mr. Abcede contested the LA on the ground that he can only be investigated once in a taxable year. Decide. (7%)

In the settlement of the estate of Mr. Barbera who died intestate, his wife renounced her inheritance and her share of the conjugal property in favor of their children. The BIR determined that there was a taxable gift and thus assessed Mrs. Barbera as a donor. Was the BIR correct? (7%)

Mr. Amado leased a piece of land owned by the Municipality of Pinagsabitan and built a warehouse on the property for his business operations. The Municipal Assessor assessed Mr. Amado for real property taxes on the land and the warehouse. Mr. Amado objected to the assessment, contending that he should not be asked to pay realty taxes on the land since it is a municipal property. Was the assessment proper? (5%)

XYZ Law Offices, a law partnership in the Philippines and a VAT-registered taxpayer, received a query by e-mail from Gainsburg Corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, but the e-mail came from California where Gainsburg has an office. Gainsburg has no office in the Philippines and does no business in the Philippines. XYZ Law Offices rendered its opinion on the query and billed Gainsburg US$1,000 for the opinion. Gainsburg remitted its payment through Citibank which converted the remitted US$1,000 to pesos and deposited the converted amount in the XYZ Law Offices account. What are the tax implications of the payment to XYZ Law Offices in terms of VAT and income taxes? (7%)

On October 15, 2005, ABC Corp. imported 1,000 kilos of steel ingots and paid customs duties and VAT to the Bureau of Customs on the importation. On February 17, 2009, the Bureau of Customs, citing provisions of the Tariff and Customs Code on post-audit, investigated and assessed ABC Corp. for deficiency customs duties and VAT. Is the Bureau of Customs correct? (7%)

Mr. Agustin, 75 years old and suffering from an incurable disease, decided to sell for valuable and sufficient consideration a house and lot to his son. He died one year later. In the settlement of Mr. Agustin's estate, the BIR argued that the house and lot were transferred in contemplation of death and should therefore form part of the gross estate for estate tax purposes. Is the BIR correct? (7%)

In its final adjustment return for the 2010 taxable year, ABC Corp. had excess tax credits arising from its over-withholding of income payments. It opted to carry over the excess tax credits to the following year. Subsequently, ABC Corp. changed its mind and applied for a refund of the excess tax credits. Will the claim for refund prosper? (6%)

Atty. Gambino is a partner in a general professional partnership. The partnership computes its gross revenues, claims deductions allowed under the Tax Code, and distributes the net income to the partners, including Atty. Gambino, in accordance with its articles of partnership. In filing his own income tax return, Atty. Gambino claimed deductions that the partnership did not claim, such as purchase of law books, entertainment expenses, car insurance and car depreciation. The BIR disallowed the deductions. Was the BIR correct? (6%)

Mr. A was preparing his income tax return and had some doubt on whether a commission he earned should be declared for the current year or for the succeeding year. He sought the opinion of his lawyer who advised him to report the commission in the succeeding year. He heeded his lawyer's advice and reported the commission in the succeeding year. The lawyer's advice turned out to be wrong; in Mr. A's petition against the BIR assessment, the court ruled against Mr. A. Is Mr. A guilty of fraud? (1%) (A) Mr. A is not guilty of fraud as he simply followed the advice of his lawyer (CIR v. CA, G.R. No. 119322, 4 June 1996). (B) Mr. A is guilty of fraud; he deliberately did not report the commission in the current year when he should have done so. (C) Mr. A's lawyer should pay the tax for giving the wrong advice. (D) Mr. A is guilty for failing to consult his accountant.

Which statement is FALSE under the VAT law? a) A VAT-registered person will be subject to VAT for his taxable transactions, regardless of his gross sales or receipts; b) A person engaged in trade or business selling taxable goods or services must register as a VAT person, when his gross sales or receipts for the year 2011 exceed P1.5 Million; c) A person who issued a VAT-registered invoice or receipt for a VAT-exempt transaction is liable to the 12% VAT as a penalty for the wrong issuance thereof; d) Once a doctor of medicine exercises his profession during the year, he needs to register as a VAT person and to issue VAT receipts for professional fees received.

Mr. Pedro Aguirre, a resident citizen, is working for a large real estate development company in the country and in 2010, he was promoted to Vice-President of the company. With more responsibilities comes higher pay. In 2011, he decided to buy a new car worth P2 Million and he traded-in his old car with a market value of P800,000.00 and paid the difference of P1.2 Million to the car company. The old car, which was bought three (3) years ago by the father of Mr. Pedro Aguirre at a price of P700,000.00 was donated by him and registered in the name of his son. The corresponding donor's tax thereon was duly paid by the father. a) How much is the cost basis of the old car to Mr. Aguirre? Explain your answer (2%) b) What is the nature of the old car - capital asset or ordinary asset? Explain your answer. (3%) c) Is Mr. Aguirre liable to pay income tax on the gain from the sale of his old car? Explain your answer. (5%)

Spouses Pablo Gonzales and Teresita Gonzales, both resident citizens acquired during their marriage a residential house and lot located in Makati City, which is being leased to a tenant for a monthly rental of P100,000.00. Mr. Pablo Gonzales is the President of PG Corporation and he receives P50,000.00 salary per month. The spouses have only one (1) minor child. In late June 2010, he was immediately brought to the hospital because of the heart attack and he was pronounced dead on June 30, 2010. With no liabilities, the estate of the late Pablo Gonzales was settled extrajudicially in early 2011. a) Is Mr. Pablo Gonzales required to file income tax for 2010? If so, how much income must he declare for the year? How much personal and additional exemption is he entitled to? Explain your answer. (5%) b) Is Mrs. Teresita Gonzales required to file income tax return for 2010? If so, how much income must she declare for the year? How much personal exemption is she entitled to? Explain your answer. (5%) c) Is the Estate of the late Pablo Gonzales required to file income tax return for 2010? If so, how much income must it declare for the year? How much personal exemption is it entitled to? Explain your answer. (5%)

Bank A deposit money with Bank B which earns interest that is subjected to the 20% final withholding tax. At the same time, Bank A is subjected to the 5% gross receipts tax on its interest income on loan transactions to customers. Which statement below INCORRECTLY describes the transaction? a) There is double taxation because two taxes - income tax and gross receipts tax are imposed on the interest incomes described above and double taxation is prohibited under the 1987 Constitution b) There is no double taxation because the first tax is income tax, while the second tax is business tax; c) There is no double taxation because the income tax is on the interest income of Bank A on its deposits with Bank B (passive income), while the gross receipts tax is on the interest income received by Bank A from loans to its debtor-customers (active income); d) Income tax on interest income of deposits of Bank A is a direct tax, while GRT on interest income on loan transaction is an tax.

Which of the following statement is NOT correct? a) In case of doubt, statutes levying taxes are constructed strictly the government; b) The construction of a statute made by his predecessors is not binding upon the successor, if thereafter he becomes satisfied that a different construction should be given; c) The reversal of a ruling shall not generally be given retroactive application, if said reversal will be prejudicial to the taxpayer; d) A memorandum circular promulgated by the CIR that imposes penalty for violations of certain rules need not be published in a newspaper of general circulation or official gazette because it has the force and effect of law.

Which statement below expresses the lifeblood theory? a) The assessed taxes must be enforced by the government. b) The underlying basis of taxation is government necessity, for without taxation, a government can neither exist nor endure; c) Taxation is an arbitrary method of exaction by those who are in the seat of power; d) The power of taxation is an inherent power of the sovereign to impose burdens upon subjects and objects within its jurisdiction for the purpose of raising revenues.

Which statement is WRONG? a) The power of taxation may be exercised by the government, its political subdivisions, and public utilities; b) Generally, there is no limit on the amount of tax that may be imposed; c) The money contributed as tax becomes part of the public funds; d) The power of tax is subject to certain constitutional limitations.

The Philippines adopted the semi-global tax system, which means that: a) All taxable incomes, regardless of the nature of income, are added together to arrive at gross income, and all allowable deductions are deducted from the gross income to arrive at the taxable income; b) All incomes subject to final withholding taxes liable to income tax under the schedular tax system, while all ordinary income as well as income not subject to final withholding tax under the global tax system; c) All taxable incomes are subject to final withholding taxes under the schedular tax system; d) All taxable incomes from sources within and without the Philippines are liable to income tax.

Income from the performance of services is treated as income from within the Philippines, if: a) The payment of compensation for the service is made in the Philippines; b) The contract calling for the performance of services is signed in the Philippines; c) The service is actually performed in the Philippines; d) The recipient of service income is a resident of the Philippines.

For income tax purposes, the source of the service income is important for the taxpayer, who is a: a) Filipino citizen residing in Makati City; b) Non-resident Filipino citizen working residing in London, United Kingdom; c) Japanese citizen who is married to a Filipino citizen and residing in their family home located Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City; d) Domestic corporation.

Interest income of a domestic commercial bank derived from a peso loan to a domestic corporation in 2010 is: a) Subject to the 30% income tax based on its net taxable income; b) Subject to the 20% final withholding tax; c) Subject to the 7.5% final withholding tax; d) Subject to 10% final withholding tax.

A resident corporation is one that is: a) Organized under the laws of the Philippines that does business in another country; b) Organized under the laws of a foreign country that sets up a regional headquarter in the Philippines doing product promotion and information dissemination; c) Organized under the laws of the Philippines that engages business in a special economic zone; d) Organized under the laws of a foreign country that engages in business in Makati City, Philippines.

A preliminary Assessment Notice (PAN) is NOT required to be issued by the BIR before issuing a Final Assessment Notice (FAN) on one of the following cases: a) When a taxpayer does not pay the 2010 deficiency income tax liability on or before July 15 of the year; b) When the finding for any deficiency tax is the result of mathematical error in the computation of the tax as appearing on the face of the return; c) When a discrepancy has been determined between the value added tax paid and the amount due for the year; d) When the amount of discrepancy shown in the Letter Notice is not paid within thirty (30) days from date of receipt.

A dealer in securities sold unlisted shares of stocks of a domestic corporation in 2010 and derived a gain of P1 Million therefrom. The gain is: a) Taxable at 30% regular corporate income tax based on net taxable income; b) Taxable at 5%/10% capital gains tax based on net capital gain; c) Taxable at 1/2 of 1% stock transaction tax based on the gross selling price or fair market value, whichever is higher d) Exempt from income tax

An individual, who is a real estate dealer, sold a residential lot in Quezon City at a gain of P100,000.00 (selling price of P900,000.00 and cost is P800,000.00). The sale is subject to income tax as follows: a) 6% capital gains tax on the gain; b) 6% capital gains tax on the gross selling price of fair market value, whichever is higher; c) Ordinary income tax at the graduated rates of 5% to 32% of net taxable income; d) 30% income tax on net taxable income.

During the audit conducted by the BIR official, it was found that the rental income claimed by the corporation was not subjected to expanded withholding tax. Accordingly, the claimed rental expense: a) Is deductible from the gross income of the corporation, despite non-withholding of income tax by the corporation; b) Is deductible from the gross income of the corporation, provided that the 5% expanded withholding tax is paid by the corporation during the audit; c) Is not deductible from gross income of the corporation due to non-withholding of tax; d) Is deductible, if it can be shown that the lessor has correctly reported the rental income in his tax return.

A resident Filipino citizen (not a dealer in securities) sold shares of stocks of a domestic corporation that are listed and traded in the Philippine Stock Exchange. a) The sale is exempt from income tax but subject to the 1/2 of 1% stock transaction tax; b) The sale is subject to income tax computed at the graduated income tax rates of 5% to 32% on net taxable income; c) The sale is subject to the stock transaction tax and income tax; d) The sale is both exempt from the stock transaction tax and income tax.

The appropriate method of accounting for a contractor on his long-term construction contract (i.e., it takes more than a year to finish) is: a) Cash method; b) Accrual method; c) Installment sale method; d) Percentage of completion method.

A general professional partnership (GPP) is one: a) That is registered as such with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Bureau of Internal Revenue; b) That is composed of individuals who exercise a common profession; c) That exclusively derives income from the practice of the common profession; d) That derives professional income and rental income from property owned by it.

The interest expense of a domestic corporation on a bank loan in connection with the purchase of a production equipment: a) Is not deductible from gross income of the borrower-corporation; b) Is deductible from the gross income of the borrower-corporation during the year or it may be capitalized as part of cost of the equipment; c) Is deductible only for a period of five years from date of purchase; d) Is deductible only if the taxpayer uses the cash method of accounting.

The "all events test" refers to: a) A person who uses the cash method where all sales have been fully paid by the buyers thereof; b) A person who uses the installment sales method, where the full amount of consideration is paid in full by the buyer thereof within the year of sale; c) A person who uses the accrual method, whereby an expense is deductible for the taxable year in which all the events had occurred which determined the fact of the liability and the amount thereof could be determined with reasonable accuracy; d) A person who uses the completed method, whereby the construction project has been completed during the year the contract was signed.

Which statement below on compromise of tax liability is correct? a) Compromise of a tax liability is available only at the administrative level; b) Compromise of a tax liability is available only before trial at the CTA; c) Compromise of a tax liability is available even during appeal, provided that prior leave of court is obtained; d) Compromise of a tax liability is still available even after the court decision has become final and executory.

All the items below are excluded from gross income, except: a) Gain from sale of long-term bonds, debentures and indebtedness; b) Value of property received by a person as donation or inheritance; c) Retirement benefits received from the GSIS, SSS, or accredited retirement plan; d) Separation pay received by a retiring employee under a voluntary retirement program of the corporate employer.

Which statement is correct? A non-stock, non-profit charitable association that sells its idle agricultural property is: a) Not required to file an income tax return nor pay income tax on the transaction to the BIR, provided the sales proceeds are invested in another real estate during the year; b) Required to pay the 6% capital gains tax on the gross selling price of fair market value, whichever is higher; c) Mandated to pay the 30% regular corporate income tax on the gain from sale; d) Required to withhold the applicable expanded withholding tax rate on the transaction and remit the same to the BIR.

ABS Corporation is a PEZA-registered export enterprise which manufactures cameras and sells all its finished products abroad. Which statement is NOT correct? a) ABS Corporation is subject to the 5% final tax on gross income earned, in lieu of all national and local taxes; b) ABS Corporation is exempt from the 30% corporate income tax on net income, provided it pays value added tax; c) ABS Corporation is subject to the 30% corporate income tax on net income; d) ABS Corporation is exempt from all national and local taxes, except real property tax.

In May 2010, Mr. And Mrs. Melencio Antonio donated a house and lot with a fair market value of P10 Million to their sob, Roberto, who is to be married during the same year to Josefina Angeles. Which statement below is INCORRECT? a) There are four (4) donations made - two (2) donations are made by Mr. Melencio Antonio to Roberto and Josefina, and two (2) donations are made by Mrs. Antonio; b) The four (4) donations are made by the Spouses Antonio to members of the family, hence, subject to the graduated donor's tax rates (2%-15%); c) Two (2) donations are made by the spouses to members of the family, while two (2) other donations are made to strangers; d) Two (2) donations made by the spouses to Roberto are entitled to deduction from the gross gift as donation proper nuptias.

While he was traveling with friends, Mr. Jose Francisco, resident Filipino citizen, died on January 20, 2011 in a California Hospital, USA, leaving personal and real properties with market values as follows: House and Lot in Quezon City - P10 Million; Cash in bank in California - US$10,000.00; Citibank in New York - US$5,000.00; Cash in BPI Makati - P4 Million; Car in Quezon City - P1 Million; Shares of stocks of Apple Corporation, US corporation listed in NY Stock Exchange - US$1 = Php50. His gross estate for the Philippine estate tax purposes shall be: a) P13 Million; b) P14 Million; c) P15 Million; d) P16 Million.

In 2006, Mr. Vicente Tagle, a retiree, bought 10,000 CDA shares that are unlisted in the local stock exchange for P10 per share. In 2010, the said shares had a book value per share of P60 per share. In view of a car accident in 2010, Mr. Vicente Tagle had to sell his CDA shares but he could sell the same only for P50 per share. The sale is subject to tax as follows: a) 5%/10% capital gains tax on the capital gain from sale of P40 per share (P50 selling price less P10 cost); b) 5%/10% capital gains tax on the capital gain of P50 per share, arrived at by deducting the cost (P10 per share) from the book value (P60 per share); c) 5%/10% capital gains tax on the capital gain from sale of P40 per share (P50 selling price less P10 cost) plus donor's tax on the excess of the fair market value of the shares over the consideration; d) Graduated income tax rates of 5% to 32% on the net taxable income from the sale of the shares.

On January 10, 2011, Maria Reyes, single-mother, donated cash in the amount of P50,000.00 to her daughter Cristina, and on December 20, 2011, she donated another P50,000.00 to Cristina. Which statement is correct? a) Maria Reyes is subject to donor's tax in 2011 because gross gift is P100,000.00; b) Maria Reyes is exempt from donor's tax in 2011 because gross gift is P100,000.00; c) Maria Reyes is exempt from donor's tax in 2011 only to the extent of P50,000.00; d) Maria Reyes is exempt from donor's tax in 2011 because the donee is minor.

Jose Ramos, single, died of a heart attack on October 10, 2011, leaving a residential house and lot with a market value of P1.8 Million and cash of P100,000.00. Funeral expenses paid amounted to P250,000.00 a) His estate will be exempt from estate tax because the net estate is zero; b) His estate will be subject to estate tax because net estate is P1,650,000.00; c) His estate will be subject to estate tax because net estate is P1,700,00.00; d) His estate will be subject to estate tax because net estate is P800,000.00.

Sale of residential house and lot by an official of a domestic corporation to another official in the same corporation for a consideration of P2.5 Million in 2011 is: a) Exempt from VAT because the gross sales do not exceed P2.5 Million; b) Exempt from VAT because the property sold is a capital asset, regardless of the gross selling price; c) Exempt from VAT because the seller is not a person engaged in real estate business; d) Taxable at 12% VAT output tax on the gross selling price of P2.5 Million.

An importer of flowers from abroad in 2011: a) Is liable for VAT, if it registers as a VAT person; b) Is exempt from VAT, because the goods are treated as agricultural products; c) Is exempt from VAT, provided that his total importation of flowers does not exceed P1.5 Million; d) Is liable for VAT, despite the fact that it did not register as a VAT person and its total annual sales of flowers do not exceed P1.5 Million.

A VAT-registered contractor performed services for his customer in 2010 and billed him P11.2 Million, broken down as follows: P10 Million - cost of services, plus P1.2 Million, 12% VAT. Of the contract price of P10 Million, only P8 Million plus VAT thereon was received from the customer in 2010, and the balance of P4 Million plus VAT was received by the contractor in 2011. How much is the taxable gross receipts of the contractor for 2010, for VAT purposes? a) P10 Million, the total cost of services performed in 2010; b) P8 Million, the amount received from the customer in 2010; c) P8 Million plus VAT received from the customer in 2010; d) P11.2 Million, the total cost of services performed plus 12% VAT.

MBM Corporation is the owner-operator of movie houses in Cavite. During the year 2010, it received a total gross receipts of P20 Million from the operation of movies. It did not register as a VAT person. Which statement below is correct? a) MBM Corporation is exempt from the 12% VAT, but liable for the 20% amusement tax on admissions under the Local Government Code; b) MBM Corporation is both liable for the 12% VAT and 20% amusement tax on admissions; c) MBM Corporation is both exempt from the 12% VAT and 20% amusement tax on admissions; d) MBM Corporation is liable for the 12% VAT, but exempt from the 20% amusement tax on admissions.

A pawnshop shall now be treated, for business tax purposes: a) As a lending investor liable to the 12% VAT on its gross receipts from interest income and from gross selling price from sale of unclaimed properties; b) Not as a lending investor, but liable to the 5% gross receipts tax imposed on a non-bank financial intermediary under Title VI (Other Percentage Taxes); c) As exempt from 12% VAT and 5% gross receipts tax; d) As liable to the 12% VAT and 5% gross receipts tax.

Under the VAT system, there is no cascading because the tax itself is not again being taxed. However, in determining the tax base on sale of taxable goods under the VAT system: a) The professional tax paid by the professional is included in gross receipts; b) The other percentage tax (e.g., gross receipts tax) paid by the taxpayer is included in gross selling price; c) The excise tax paid by the taxpayer before withdrawal of the goods from the place of production or from customs custody is included in the gross selling price; d) The documentary stamp tax paid by the taxpayer is included in the gross selling price or gross receipts.

Except for one transaction, the rest are exempt from value added tax. Which one is VAT taxable? a) Sales of chicken by a restaurant owner who did not register as a VAT person and whose gross annual sales is P1.2 Million; b) Sales of copra by a copra dealer to a coconut oil manufacturer who did not register as a VAT person and whose gross annual sales is P5 Million; c) Gross receipts of CPA during the year amounted to P1 Million; the CPA registered as a VAT person in January 2011, before practicing his profession; d) Sales of a book store during the year amounted to P10 Million; it did not register as a VAT person with the BIR.

A lessor or real property is exempt from value added tax in one of the transactions below. Which one is it? a) Lessor leases commercial stalls located in the Greenhills Commercial Center to VAT-registered sellers of cell phones; lessor's gross rental during the year amounted to P12 Million; b) Lessor leases residential apartment units to individual tenants for P10,000.00 per month per unit; his gross rental income during the year amounted to P2 Million; c) Lessor leases commercial stalls at P10,000.00 per stall per month and residential units at P15,000.00 per unit per month; his gross rental income during the year amounted to P3 Million; d) Lessor leases two (2) residential houses and lots at P50,000.00 per month per unit, but he registered as a VAT person.

IBP Bank extended loans to debtors during the year, with real properties of the debtors being used as collateral to secure the loans. When the debtors failed to pay the unpaid principal and interests after several demand letters, the bank foreclosed the same and entered into contracts of lease with tenants. The bank is subject to the tax as follows: a) 12% VAT on the rental income, but exempt from the 7% gross receipts tax; b) 7% gross receipts tax on the rental income, but exempt from VAT; c) Liable to both the 12% VAT and 7% gross receipts tax; d) Exempt from both the 12% VAT and 7% gross receipts tax.

Which transaction below is subject to VAT? a) Sale of vegetables by a farmer in Baguio City to a vegetable dealer; b) Sale of vegetables by a vegetable dealer in Baguio City to another vegetable dealer in Quezon City; c) Sale of vegetables by the QC vegetable dealer to a restaurant in Manila; d) Sale of vegetables by the restaurant operator to its customers.

Which importation in 2011 is subject to VAT? a) Importation of fuels by a person engaged in international shipping worth P20 Million; b) Importation of raw, unprocessed, refrigerated Kobe beef from Japan by a beef dealer for sale to hotels in Makati City with a fair market value of P10 Million; c) Importation of wines by a wine dealer with a fair market value of P2 million for sale to hotels in Makati City; d) Importation of books worth P5 Million and school supplies worth P1.2 million.

Input tax is available to a VAT-registered buyer, provided that: a) The seller is a VAT-registered person; b) The seller issues a VAT invoice or official receipt, which separately indicates the VAT component; c) The goods or service is subject to or exempt from VAT, but the sale is covered by a VAT invoice or receipt issued by VAT-registered person; d) The name and TIN of the buyer is not stated or shown in the VAT invoice or receipt Which statement shown above is NOT correct?

Claim for tax credit or refund of excess input tax is available only to: a) A VAT-registered person whose sales are made to embassies of foreign governments and United Nations agencies located in the Philippines without the BIR approval of the application for zero-rating; b) Any person who has excess input tax arising from local purchases of taxable goods and services; c) A VAT-registered person whose sales are made to clients in the Philippines; d) A VAT-registered person whose sales are made to customers outside the Philippines and who issued VAT invoices or receipts with the words "ZERO RATED SALES" imprinted on the sales invoices or receipts.

A hotel operator that is a VAT-registered person and who leases luxury vehicles to its hotel customers is: a) Subject to the 3% common carriers tax and 12% VAT; b) Subject to the 3% common carriers tax only; c) Subject to the 12% VAT only; d) Exempt from both the 3% common carriers tax and 12% VAT.

Which statement is correct? A bar review center owned and operated by lawyers is: a) Exempt from VAT, regardless of its gross receipts during the year because it is an educational center; b) Exempt from VAT, provided that its annual gross receipts do not exceed P1.5 Million in 2011; c) Subject to VAT, regardless of its gross receipts during the year; d) Subject to VAT, if it is duly accredited by TESDA.

For 2012, input tax is not available as a credit against the output tax of the buyer of taxable goods or services during the quarter, if: a) The VAT invoice or receipt of the seller is registered with the BIR; b) The VAT invoice or receipt of the seller does not separately indicate the gross selling price or gross receipts and the VAT component therein; c) The VAT invoice or receipt is issued in the name of the VAT-registered buyer and his TIN is shown in said invoice or receipt; d) The VAT invoice or receipt issued by the seller shows the Taxpayer Identification Number plus the word "VAT" or "VAT registered person".

The public market vendor below, who is not a VAT-registered person is liable to VAT in 2010, if: a) She sells raw chicken and meats and her gross sales during the year is P2 Million; b) She sells vegetables and fruits in her stall and her gross sales during the year is P1 Million; c) She sells canned goods, processed coconut oils, and cut flowers in her stall and her gross sales during the year is P2.5 Million; d) She sells live fish, shrimps, and crabs and her gross sales during the year is P5 Million.

The Commissioner of Internal Revenue may NOT inquire into the bank deposits of a taxpayer, except: a) When the taxpayer files a fraudulent return; b) When the taxpayer offers to compromise the assessed tax based on erroneous assessment; c) When the taxpayer offers to compromise the assessed tax based on financial incapacity to pay and he authorizes the Commissioner in writing to look into his bank records; d) When the taxpayer did not file his income tax return for the year.

The Commissioner of Internal Revenue issued a BIR ruling to the effect that the transaction is liable to income tax and value added tax. Upon receipt of the ruling, a taxpayer does not agree thereto. What is his proper remedy? a) File a petition for review with the Court of Tax Appeals within thirty (30) days from receipt thereof; b) File a motion for reconsideration with the Commissioner of Internal Revenue; c) File an appeal to the Secretary of Finance within thirty (30) days from receipt thereof; d) File an appeal to the Secretary of Justice within thirty (30) days from receipt thereof.

On April 15, 2011, the Commissioner of Internal Revenue mailed by registered mail the final assessment notice and the demand letter covering the calendar year 2007 with the QC Post Office. Which statement is correct? a) The assessment notice is void because it was mailed beyond the prescriptive period; b) The assessment notice is void because it was not received by the taxpayer within the three-year period from the date of filing of the tax return; c) The assessment notice is void if the taxpayer can show that the same was received only after one (1) month from date of mailing; d) The assessment notice is valid even if the taxpayer received the same after the three-year period from the date of filing of the tax return.

When a protest against the deficiency income tax assessment was denied by the BIR Regional Director of Quezon City, the appeal to the Court of Tax Appeals must be filed by a taxpayer: a) If the amount of basic tax assessed is P100,000.00 or more; b) If the amount of basic tax assessed is P300,000.00 or more; c) If the amount of basic tax assessed is P500,000.00 or more; d) If the amount of basic tax assessed is P1 Million or more.

The taxpayer received an assessment notice on April 15, 2011 and filed its request for reinvestigation against the assessment on April 30, 2011. Additional documentary evidence in support of its protest was submitted by it on June 30, 2011. If no denial of the protest was received by the taxpayer, when is the last day for the filing of its appeal to the CTA? a) November 30, 2011; b) December 30, 2011; c) January 30, 2012; d) February 28, 2012.

Using the same facts in the immediately preceding number, but assuming that the final decision on the disputed assessment was received by the taxpayer on July 30, 2011, when is the last day for filing of the appeal to the CTA? a) August 30, 2011; b) September 30, 2011; c) December 30, 2011; d) January 30, 2012.

Which court has jurisdiction to determine if the warrant of distraint and levy issued by the BIR is valid and to rule if the waiver of the Statute of Limitations was validly effected? a) City Courts; b) Regional Trial Court; c) Court of Tax Appeals; d) Court of Appeals.

Anchor Banking Corporation, which was organized in 2000 and existing under the laws of the Philippines and owned by the Sy Family of Makati City, set up in 2010 a branch office in Shanghai City, China, to take advantage of the presence of many Filipino workers in that area and its booming economy. During the year, the bank, management decided not to include the P20 Million net income of the Shanghai Branch in the annual Philippine income tax return filed with the BIR, which showed a net taxable income of P30 Million, because the Shanghai Branch is treated as a foreign corporation and is taxed only on income from sources within the Philippines, and since the loan and other business transactions were done in Shanghai, these incomes are not taxable in the Philippines. a) Is the bank correct in excluding the net income of its Shanghai Branch in the computation of its annual corporate income tax for 2010? Explain your answer. (5%) b) Should the Shanghai Branch of Anchor Bank remit profit to its Head Office in the Philippines in 2011? Is the branch liable to the 15% branch profit remittance tax imposed under Section 28 (A)(5) of the 1997 Tax Code? Explain your answer (5%)

In case of full or partial denial of the written claim for refund or excess input tax directly attributable to zero-rated sales, or the failure on the part of the Commissioner to act on the application within 120 days from the date of submission of complete documents, an appeal must be filed with the CTA: a) Within thirty (30) days after filing the administrative claim with the BIR; b) Within sixty (60) days after filing the administrative claim with the BIR; c) Within one hundred twenty (120) days after filing the administrative claim with the BIR; d) Within thirty (30) days from the receipt of the decision denying the claim or after the expiration of the 120-day period.

The submission of the required documents within sixty (60) days from the filing of the protest is available only where: a) The taxpayer previously filed a Motion for Reconsideration with the BIR official; b) The taxpayer previously filed a request for reconsideration with the BIR official; c) The taxpayer previously filed a request for reinvestigation with the BIR official; d) The taxpayer previously filed an extension to file a protest with the BIR official.

The prescriptive period for the collection of the deficiency tax assessment will be tolled: a) If the taxpayer files a request for reconsideration with the Asst. Commissioner; b) If the taxpayer files a request for reinvestigation that is approved by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue; c) If the taxpayer changes his address in the Philippines that is communicated to the BIR official; d) If a warrant of levy is served upon the taxpayer's real property in Manila.

Which statement is correct? The collection of a deficiency tax assessment by distraint and levy: a) May be repeated, if necessary, until the full amount due, including all expenses, is collected; b) Must be done successively, first by distraint and then by levy; c) Automatically covers the bank deposits of a delinquent taxpayer; d) May be done only once during the taxable year.

The prescriptive period to file a criminal action is: a) Ten (10) years from the date of discovery of the commission of fraud or non-filing of tax return; b) Five (5) years from the date of issuance of the final assessment notice; c) Three (3) years from the filing of the annual tax return; d) Five (5) years from the commission of the violation of the law, and if the same be not known at the time, from the discovery thereof and the institution of judicial proceedings for its investigation and punishment.

The accused's mere reliance on the representations made by his accountant, with deliberate refusal or avoidance to verify the contents of his tax return and to inquire on its authenticity constitutes: a) Simple negligence; b) Gross negligence; c) Willful blindness; d) Excusable negligence.

The acquittal of the accused in the criminal action for the failure to file income tax return and failure to supply correct information will have the following consequence: a) The CTA will automatically exempt the accused from any civil liability; b) The CTA will still hold the taxpayer liable for deficiency income tax liability in all cases, since preponderance of evidence is merely required for tax cases; c) The CTA will impose civil or tax liability only if there was a final assessment notice issued by the BIR against the accused in accordance with the prescribed procedures for issuing assessments, which was presented during the trial; d) The CTA will impose civil or tax liability, provided that a computation of the tax liability is presented during the trial.

X Corporation had excess income tax payment for the year 2008, which it chose to carry over in 2009. In filing its 2009 corporate income tax return, it signified its intention (by checking the small box "refund" at the bottom of the return) to get a refund of the overpaid amount in 2008. Can the refund be allowed or not, and if disallowed, does X Corporation lose the claimed amount? a) X Corporation may not get the refund because the decision to carry over in 2008 was irrevocable for that year, and it may not change that decision in succeeding years; b) X Corporation may not get the refund in 2009, but the amount being claimed as refund may be utilized in succeeding years until fully exhausted because there is no prescriptive period for carry over of excess income tax payments; c) X Corporation may get the refund, provided that it will no longer carry over such amount or utilize the same against its income tax liability in the future; d) X Corporation may file instead a claim of tax credit, in lieu of refund.

Which statement is correct? a) Legislative acts passed by the municipal council in the exercise of its lawmaking authority are denominated as resolutions and ordinances; b) Legislative acts passed by the municipal council in the exercise of its lawmaking authority are denominated as resolutions; c) Legislative acts passed by the municipal council in the exercise of its lawmaking authority are denominated as ordinances; d) Both ordinances and resolutions are solemn and formal acts.

Which of the following statements is NOT a test of a valid ordinance? a) It must not contravene the Constitution or any statute; b) It must not be unfair or oppressive; c) It must not be partial or discriminatory; d) It may prohibit or regulate trade.

Taxing power of local government units shall NOT extend to the following taxes, except one: a) Income tax on banks and other financial institutions; b) Taxes of any kind on the national government, its agencies and instrumentalities, and local government units; c) Taxes on agricultural and aquatic products when sold by the marginal farmers or fishermen; d) Excise taxes on articles enumerated under the National Internal Revenue Code.

Which statement on prescriptive periods is true? a) The prescriptive periods to assess taxes in the National Internal Revenue Code and the Local Government Code are the same; b) Local taxes shall be assessed within five (5) years from the date they became due; c) Action for the collection of local taxes may be instituted after the expiration of the period to assess and to collect the tax; d) Local taxes may be assessed within ten (10) years from discovery of the underpayment of tax which does not constitute fraud.

The appraisal, assessment, levy and collection of real property tax shall be guided by the following principles. Which statement does NOT belong here? a) Real property shall be appraised at its current and fair market value; b) Real property shall be classified for assessment purposes on the basis of its actual use; c) Real property shall be assessed on the basis of a uniform classification within each local political subdivision; d) The appraisal and assessment of real property shall be based on audited financial statements of the owner.

Foster Corporation (FC) is a Singapore-based foreign corporation engaged in construction and installation projects. In 2010, Global Oil Corporation (GOC), a domestic corporation engaged in the refinery of petroleum products, awarded an anti-pollution project to Foster Corporation, whereby FC shall design, supply machinery and equipment, and install an anti-pollution device for GOC's refinery in the Philippines, provided that the installation part of the project may be sub-contracted to a local construction company. Pursuant to the contract, the design and supply contracts were done in Singapore by FC, while the installation works were sub-contracted by the FC with the Philippine Construction Corporation (PCC), a domestic corporation. The project with a total cost of P100 Million was completed in 2011 at the following cost components: (design - P20Million; machinery and equipment - P50 Million; and installation - P30 Million). Assume that the project was 40% complete in 2010 and 100% complete in 2011, based on the certificates issued by the certificates issued by the architects and engineers working on the project. GOC paid FC as follows: P60 Million in 2010 and P40 Million in 2011, and FC paid PCC in foreign currency through a Philippine bank as follows: P10 Million in 2010 and P20 Million in 2011. a) Is FC liable to Philippine income tax, and if so, how much revenue shall be reported by it in 2010 and in 2011? Explain your answer. (5%) b) Is PCC, which adopted the percentage of completion method of reporting income and expenses, liable to value added tax in 2010 and in 2011. Explain your answer. (5%)

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is exempt from real property tax. Which statement below is NOT correct? a) MIAA is not a government-owned or controlled corporation because it is not organized as a stock or non-stock corporation; b) MIAA is a government instrumentality vested with corporate powers and performing essential public services; c) MIAA is not a taxable entity because the real property is owned by the Republic of the Philippines and the beneficial use of such property has not been granted to a private entity; d) MIAA is a government-owned or controlled corporation because it is required to meet the test of economic viability.

For purposes of real property taxes, the tax rates are applied on: a) Zonal values; b) Fair market value; c) Assessed values; d) Reproduction values.

One of the local government units below does NOT have the power to impose real property tax: a) Bacoor, Cavite; b) Davao City; c) Tarlac Province; d) Malabon, Metro Manila.

Where the real property tax assessment is erroneous, the remedy of the property owner is: a) To file a claim for refund in the Court of Tax Appeals if he has paid the tax, within thirty (30) days from date of payment; b) To file an appeal with the Provincial Board of Assessment Appeals within thirty (30) days from receipt of the assessment; c) To file an appeal with the Provincial Board of Assessment Appeals within sixty (60) days from receipt of the assessment; d) To file an appeal with the Provincial Board of Assessment Appeals within sixty (60) days from receipt of the assessment and playing the assessed tax under protest.

The City Government of Manila may NOT impose: a) Basic real property tax at 2% of the assessed value of real property; b) Additional levy on real property for the special education fund at 1% of the assessed value of real property; c) Additional ad valorem tax on idle lands at a rate not exceeding 5% of the assessed value; d) Special levy on lands within its territory specially benefited by public works projects or improvements funded by it at 80% of the actual cost of the projects or improvements.

Importation of goods is deemed terminated: a) When the customs duties are paid, even if the goods remain within the customs premises; b) When the goods are released or withdrawn from the customs house upon payment of the customs duties or with legal permit to withdraw; c) When the goods enter Philippines territory and remain within the customs house within thirty (30) days from date of entry; d) When there is part payment of duties on the imported goods located in the customs area.

A protest against an assessment issued by the Collector of Customs for unpaid customs duties on imported goods shall be filed with: a) The Commissioner of Customs; b) The Regional Trial Court; c) The Court of Tax Appeals; d) The Collector of Customs.

The dutiable value of an imported article subject to an ad valorem rate of duty under existing law shall be: a) The home consumption value; b) The total value; c) The total landed cost; d) The transaction value.

The imported articles shall in any case be subject to the regular physical examination when: a) The importer disagrees with the findings as contained in the government surveyor's report; b) The number, weight and nature of packages indicated in the customs entry declaration and supporting documents differ from that in the manifest; c) The container is not leaking or damaged; d) The shipment is covered by alert/hold orders issued pursuant to an existing order.

Which cases are appealable to the CTA? a) Decisions of the Secretary of Finance in cases involving liability for customs duties, seizure, detention or release of property affected; b) Decisions of the Commissioner of Customs in cases involving liability for customs duties, seizure, detention or release of property affected; c) Decisions of the Collector of Customs in cases involving liability for customs duties, seizure, detention or release of property affected; d) Decisions of the BIR Commissioner in cases involving liability for customs duties, seizure, detention or release of property affected.

Mr. Jose Castillo is a resident Filipino Citizen. He purchased a parcel of land in Makati City in 1970 at a consideration of P1 Million. In 2011, the land, which remained undeveloped and idle, had a fair market value of P20Million. Mr. Antonio Ayala, another Filipino citizen, is very much interested in the property and he offered to buy the same for P20 Million. The Assessor of Makati City re-assessed in 2011 the property at P10 Million. a) When is Mr. Castillo liable for real property tax on the land beginning 2011 or beginning 2012? Explain your answer. (2%) b) Is Mr. Castillo liable for income tax in 2011 based on the offer to buy by Mr. Ayala? Explain your answer. (3%) c) Should Mr. Castillo agree to sell the land to Mr. Ayala in 2012 for P20 Million, subject to the condition as stated in The Deed of Sale that the buyer shall assume the capital gains tax thereon, how much is the income tax due on the transaction and when must the tax return be filed and the tax be paid by the taxpayer? Explain your answer. (5%)

The BIR issued in 2010 a final assessment notice and demand letter against X Corporation covering deficiency income tax for the year 2008 in the amount of P10 Million. X Corporation earlier requested the advice of a lawyer on whether or not it should file a request for reconsideration or a request for reinvestigation. The lawyer said it does not matter whether the protest files against the assessment is a request for reconsideration or a request for reinvestigation, because it has same consequences or implications. a) What are the differences between a request for reconsideration and a request for reinvestigation? (5%) b) Do you agree with the advice of the lawyer? Explain your answer (5%)

a) May the bank deposits - peso and foreign currency of an individual taxpayer be disclosed by a commercial bank to the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, in connection with a tax investigation being conducted by revenue officials, without violating the relevant bank secrecy laws? Explain your answer. (5%) b) In 2011, the Commissioner of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requested in writing the Commissioner of Internal Revenue to get the information from a bank in the Philippines, regarding the deposits of a U.S. Citizen residing in the Philippines, who is under examination by the officials of the US IRS, pursuant to the US-Philippine Tax Treaty and other existing laws. Should the BIR Commissioner agree to obtain such information from the bank and provide the same to the IRS? Explain your answer. (5%) c) Is the bank secrecy law in the Philippines violated when the BIR issues a Warrant of Garnishment directed against a domestic bank, requiring it not to allow any withdrawal from any existing bank deposit of the delinquent taxpayer mentioned in the Warrant and to freeze the same until the tax delinquency of said taxpayer is settled with the BIR? Explain your answer. (5%)

In the examination conducted by the revenue officials against the corporate taxpayer in 2010, the BIR issued a final assessment notice and demand letter which states: "It is requested that the above deficiency tax be paid immediately upon receipt hereof, inclusive of penalties incident to delinquency. This is our final decision based on investigation. If you disagree, you may appeal this final decision within thirty (30) days from receipt hereof, otherwise said deficiency tax assessment shall become final, executory and demandable." The assessment was immediately appealed by the taxpayer to the Court of Tax Appeals, without filing its protest against the assessment and without a denial thereof by the BIR. If you were the judge, would your deny the petition for review filed by the taxpayer and consider the case as prematurely filed? Explain your answer (5%)

On April 16, 2012, the corporation filed its annual corporate income tax return for 2011, showing an overpayment of income tax of P1 Million, which is to be carried over to the succeeding year(s). On May 15, 2012, the corporation sought advice from you and said that it contemplates to file an amended return for 2011, which shows that instead of carry over of the excess income tax payment, the same shall be considered as a claim for tax refund and the small box shown as "refund" in the return will be filled up. Within a year, the corporation will file the formal request for refund for the excess payment. a) Will you recommend to the corporation such a course of action and justify that the amended return is the latest official act of the corporation as to how it may treat such overpayment of tax or should you consider the option granted to taxpayers as irrevocable, once previously exercised by it? Explain your answer. (5%) b) Should the petition for review filed with the CTA on the basis of the amended tax return be denied by the BIR and the CTA? Could the corporation still carry over such excess payment of income tax in the succeeding years, considering that there is no prescriptive period provided for in the income tax law with respect to carry over of excess income tax payments? Explain your answer. (5%)

Explain the following statements: a) The acquittal of the taxpayer in a criminal action under the Tax Code does not necessarily result in exoneration of said taxpayer from his civil liability to pay taxes. (3%) b) Should the accused be found guilty beyond reasonable doubt for violation of Section 255 of the Tax Code for failure to file tax return or to supply correct information, the imposition of the civil liability by the CTA should be automatic and no assessment notice from the BIR is necessary? (2%)

As a general rule, within what period must a taxpayer elevate to the Court of Tax Appeals a denial of his application for refund of income tax overpayment? (A) Within 30 days from receipt of the Commissioner's denial of his application for refund. (B) Within 30 days from receipt of the denial which must not exceed 2 years from payment of income tax. (C) Within 2 years from payment of the income taxes sought to be refunded. (D) Within 30 days from receipt of the denial or within two years from payment.

In "Operation Kandado," the BIR temporarily closed business establishments, including New Dynasty Corporation that failed to comply with VAT regulations. New Dynasty contends that it should not be temporarily closed since it has a valid and existing VAT registration, it faithfully issued VAT receipts, and filed the proper VAT returns. The contention may be rejected if the BIR investigation reveals that (A) the taxpayer has not been regularly filing its income tax returns for the past 4 years. (B) the taxpayer deliberately filed a false and fraudulent return with deliberate intention to evade taxes. (C) the taxpayer used falsified documents to support its application for refund of taxes. (D) there was an understatement of taxable sales or receipts by 30% or more for the taxable quarter.

Which among the following concepts of taxation is the basis for 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

Which of the following are NOT usually imposed when there is a tax amnesty? (A) Civil, criminal, and administrative penalties (B) Civil and criminal penalties (C) Civil and administrative penalties (D) Criminal and administrative penalties

Discriminatory duties may NOT be imposed upon articles (A) wholly manufactured in the discriminating country but carried by vessels of another country. (B) not manufactured in the discriminating country but carried by vessels of such country. (C) partly manufactured in the discriminating country but carried by vessels of another country. (D) not manufactured in the discriminating country and carried by vessels of another country.

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 a lawmaker's pork barrel.

What should the BIR do when the prescriptive period for the assessment of a tax deficiency is about to prescribe but the taxpayer has not yet complied with the BIR requirements for the production of books of accounts and other records to substantiate the claimed deductions, exemptions or credits? (A) Call the taxpayer to a conference to explain the delay. (B) Immediately conduct an investigation of the taxpayer's activities. (C) Issue a jeopardy assessment coupled with a letter of demand. (D) Issue a notice of constructive distraint to protect government interest.

Apparently the law does not provide for the refund of real property taxes that have been collected as a result of an erroneous or illegal assessment by the provincial or city assessor. What should be done in such instance to avoid an injustice? (A) Question the legality of the no-refund rule before the Supreme Court. (B) Enact a new ordinance amending the erroneous or illegal assessment to correct the error. (C) Subsequent adjustment in tax computation and the application of the excess payment to future real property tax liabilities. (D) Pass a new ordinance providing for the refund of real property taxes that have been erroneously or illegally collected.

Lualhati Educational Foundation, Inc., a stock educational institution organized for profit, decided to lease for commercial use a 1,500 sq. m. portion of its school. The school actually, directly, and exclusively used the rents for the maintenance of its school buildings, 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 used 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.

The taxpayer seasonably filed his protest together with all the supporting documents. It is already July 31, 2011, or 180 days from submission of the protest but the BIR Commissioner has not yet decided his protest. Desirous of an early resolution of his protested assessment, the taxpayer should file his appeal to the Court of Tax Appeals not later than (A) August 31, 2011. (B) August 30, 2011. (C) August 15, 2011. (D) August 1, 2011.

Pierre de Savigny, a Frenchman, arrived in the Philippines on January 1, 2010 and continued to live and engage in business in the Philippines. He went on a tour of Southeast Asia from August 1 to November 5, 2010. He returned to the Philippines on November 6, 2010 and stayed until April 15, 2011 when he returned to France. He earned during his stay in the Philippines a gross income of P3 million from his investments in the country. For the year 2010, Pierre's taxable status is that of (A) a non-resident alien not engaged in trade or business in the Philippines. (B) a non-resident alien engaged in trade or business in the Philippines. (C) a resident alien not engaged in trade or business in the Philippines. (D) a resident alien engaged in trade or business in the Philippines.

Ka Tato owns a parcel of land in San Jose, Batangas declared for real property taxation, as agricultural. In 1990, he used the land for a poultry feed processing plant but continued to declare the property as agricultural. In March 2011, the local tax assessor discovered Ka Tato's change of use of his land and informed the local treasurer who demanded payment of deficiency real property taxes from 1990 to 2011. Has the action prescribed? (A) No, the deficiency taxes may be collected within five years from when they fell due. (B) No. The deficiency taxes for the period 1990 up to 2011 may still be collected within 10 years from March 2011. (C) Yes. More than 10 years had lapsed for the period 1990 up to 2000, hence the right to collect the deficiency taxes has prescribed. (D) Yes. More than 5 years had lapsed for the collection of the deficiency taxes for the period 1990 up to 2005.

Under the Tariff and Customs Code, abandoned imported articles becomes the property of the: (A) government whatever be the circumstances. (B) insurance company that covered the shipment. (C) shipping company in case the freight was not paid. (D) bank if the shipment is covered by a letter of credit.

Prior to the enactment of the Local Government Code, consumer's cooperatives registered under the Cooperative Development Act enjoyed exemption from all taxes imposed by a local government. With the Local Government Code's withdrawal of exemptions, could these cooperatives continue to enjoy such exemption? (A) Yes, because the Local Government Code, a general law, could not amend a special law such as the Cooperative Development Act. (B) No, Congress has not by the majority vote of all its members granted exemption to consumers' cooperatives. (C) No, the exemption has been withdrawn to level the playing field for all taxpayers and preserve the LGUs' financial position. (D) Yes, their exemption is specifically mentioned among those not withdrawn by the Local Government Code.

Is an article previously exported from the Philippines subject to the payment of customs duties? (A) Yes, because all articles that are imported from any foreign country are subject to duty. (B) No, because there is no basis for imposing duties on articles previously exported from the Philippines. (C) Yes, because exemptions are strictly construed against the importer who is the taxpayer. (D) No, if it is covered by a certificate of identification and has not been improved in value.

No action shall be taken by the BIR on the taxpayer's disputed issues until the taxpayer has paid the deficiency taxes (A) when the assessment was issued against a false and fraudulent return. (B) if there was a failure to pay the deficiency tax within 60 days from BIR demand. (C) if the Regional Trial Court issues a writ of preliminary injunction to enjoin the BIR. (D) attributable to the undisputed issues in the assessment notice.

The excess of allowable deductions over gross income of the business in a taxable year is known as (A) net operating loss. (B) ordinary loss. (C) net deductible loss. (D) NOLCO.

The proceeds received under a life insurance endowment contract is NOT considered part of gross income (A) if it is so stated in the life insurance endowment policy. (B) if the price for the endowment policy was not fully paid. (C) where payment is made as a result of the death of the insured. (D) where the beneficiary was not the one who took out the endowment contract.

There is prima facie evidence of a false or fraudulent return where the (A) tax return was amended after a notice of assessment was issued. (B) tax return was filed beyond the reglementary period. (C) taxpayer changed his address without notifying the BIR. (D) deductions claimed exceed by 30% the actual deductions.

What is the tax base for the imposition by the province of professional taxes? (A) That which Congress determined. (B) The pertinent provision of the local Government Code. (C) The reasonable classification made by the provincial sanggunian. (D) That which the Dept. of Interior and Local Government determined.

A non-stock, non-profit school always had cash flow problems, resulting in failure to recruit well-trained administrative personnel to effectively manage the school. In 2010, Don Leon donated P100 million pesos to the school, provided the money shall be used solely for paying the salaries, wages, and benefits of administrative personnel. The donation represents less than 10% of Don Leon's taxable income for the year. Is he subject to donor's taxes? (A) No, since the donation is actually, directly, and exclusively used for educational purposes. (B) Yes, because the donation is to be wholly used for administration purposes. (C) Yes, since he did not obtain the requisite NGO certification before he made the donation. (D) No, because the donation does not exceed 10% of his taxable income for 2010.

What is the effect on the tax liability of a taxpayer who does not protest an assessment for deficiency taxes? (A) The taxpayer may appeal his liability to the CTA since the assessment is a final decision of the Commissioner on the matter. (B) The BIR could already enforce the collection of the taxpayer's liability if it could secure authority from the CTA. (C) The taxpayer's liability becomes fixed and subject to collection as the assessment becomes final and collectible. (D) The taxpayer's liability remains suspended for 180 days from the expiration of the period to protest.

A violation of the tariff and customs laws is the failure to (A) pay the customs duties and taxes and to comply with the rules on customs procedures. (B) pay the customs duties and taxes or to comply with the rules on customs procedures. (C) pay the customs duties and taxes. (D) comply with the rules on customs procedures.

Levox Corporation wanted to donate P5 million as prize money for the world professional billiard championship to be held in the Philippines. Since the Billiard Sports Confederation of the Philippines does not recognize the event, it was held under the auspices of the International Professional Billiards Association, Inc. Is Levox subject to the donor's tax on its donation? (A) No, so long as the donated money goes directly to the winners and not through the association. (B) Yes, since the national sports association for billiards does not sanction the event. (C) No, because it is donated as prize for an international competition under the billiards association. (D) Yes, but only that part that exceeds the first P100,000.00 of total Levox donations for the calendar year.

Celia donated P110,000.00 to her friend Victoria who was getting married. Celia gave no other gift during the calendar year. What is the donor's tax implication on Celia's donation? (A) The P100,000.00 portion of the donation is exempt since given in consideration of marriage. (B) A P10,000.00 portion of the donation is exempt being a donation in consideration of marriage. (C) Celia shall pay a 30% donor's tax on the P110,000.00 donation. (D) The P100,000.00 portion of the donation is exempt under the rate schedule for donor's tax.

After the province has constructed a barangay road, the Sangguniang Panglalawigan may impose a special levy upon the lands specifically benefitted by the road up to an amount not to exceed (A) 60% of the actual cost of the road without giving any portion to the barangay. (B) 100% of the actual project cost without giving any portion to the barangay. (C) 100% of the actual project cost, keeping 60% for the province and giving 40% to the barangay. (D) 60% of the actual cost, dividing the same between the province and the barangay.

The head priest of the religious sect Tres Personas Solo Dios, as the corporation sole, rented out a 5,000 sq. m. lot registered in 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 (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 rents, 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.

Zygomite Minerals, Inc., a corporation registered and holding office in Australia, not operating in the Philippines, may be subject to Philippine income taxation on (A) gains it derived from sale in Australia of an ore crusher it bought from the Philippines with the proceeds converted to pesos. (B) gains it derived from sale in Australia of shares of stock of Philex Mining Corporation, a Philippine corporation. (C) dividends earned from investment in a foreign corporation that derived 40% of its gross income from Philippine sources. (D) interests derived from its dollar deposits in a Philippine bank under the Expanded Foreign Currency Deposit System.

Jeopardy assessment is a valid ground to compromise a tax liability (A) involving deficiency income taxes only, but not for other taxes. (B) because of doubt as to the validity of the assessment. (C) if the compromise amount does not exceed 10% of the basic tax. (D) only when there is an approval of the National Evaluation Board.

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 if it results to the destruction of the property rights of a 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.

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 (A) theoretical justice. (B) fiscal adequacy. (C) administrative feasibility. (D) symbiotic relationship.

When a BIR decision affirming an assessment is appealed to the CTA, the BIR's power to garnish the taxpayer's bank deposits (A) is suspended to await the finality of such decision. (B) is suspended given that the CTA can reverse BIR decisions when prejudicial to the taxpayer. (C) is not suspended because only final decisions of the BIR are subject to appeal. (D) is not suspended since the continued existence of government depends on tax revenues.

Political campaign contributions are NOT deductible from gross income (A) if they are not reported to the Commission on Elections. (B) if the candidate supported wins the election because of possible corruption. (C) since they do not help earn the income from which they are to be deducted. (D) since such amounts are not considered as income of the candidate to whom given.

Dondon and Helena were legally separated. They had six minor children, all qualified to be claimed as additional exemptions for income tax purposes. The court awarded custody of two of the children to Dondon and three to Helena, with Dondon directed to provide full financial support for them as well. The court awarded the 6th child to Dondon's father with Dondon also providing full financial support. Assuming that only Dondon is gainfully employed while Helena is not, for how many children could Dondon claim additional exemptions when he files his income tax return? (A) Six children. (B) Five children. (C) Three children. (D) Two children.

Real property owned by the national government is exempt from real property taxation unless the national government (A) transfers it for the use of a local government unit. (B) leases the real property to a business establishment. (C) gratuitously allows its use for educational purposes by a school established for profit. (D) sells the property to a government-owned non-profit corporation.

Anion, Inc. received a notice of assessment and a letter from the BIR demanding the payment of P3 million pesos in deficiency income taxes for the taxable year 2008. The financial statements of the company show that it has been suffering financial reverses from the year 2009 up to the present. Its asset position shows that it could pay only P500,000.00 which it offered as a compromise to the BIR. Which among the following may the BIR require to enable it to enter into a compromise with Anion, Inc.? (A) Anjon must show it has faithfully paid taxes before 2009. (B) Anion must promise to pay its deficiency when financially able. (C) Anion must waive its right to the secrecy of its bank deposits. (D) Anion must immediately deposit the P500,000.00 with the BIR.

In March 2009, Tonette, who is fond of jewelries, bought a diamond ring for P750,000.00, a bracelet for P250,000.00, a necklace for P500,000.00, and a brooch for P500,000.00. Tonette derives income from the exercise of her profession as a licensed CPA. In October 2009, Tonette sold her diamond ring, bracelet, and necklace for only P1.25 million incurring a loss of P250,000.00. She used the P1.25 million to buy a solo diamond ring in November 2009 which she sold for P1.5 million in September 2010. Tonette had no other transaction in jewelry in 2010. Which among the following describes the tax implications arising from the above transactions? (A) Tonette may deduct his 2009 loss only from her 2009 professional income. (B) Tonette may carry over and deduct her 2009 loss only from her 2010 gain. (C) Tonette may carry over and deduct her 2009 loss from her 2010 professional income as well as from her gain. (D) Tonette may not deduct her 2009 loss from both her 2010 professional income and her gain.

Income from dealings in property (real, personal, or mixed) is the gain or loss derived (A) only from the cash sales of property. (B) from cash and gratuitous receipts of property. (C) from sale and lease of property. (D) only from the sale of property.

Gerardo died on July 31, 2011. His estate tax return should be filed within (A) six months from filing of the notice of death. (B) sixty days from the appointment of an administrator. (C) six months from the time he died on July 31, 2011. (D) sixty days from the time he died on July 31, 2011.

Spanflex Int'l Inc. received a notice of assessment from the BIR. It seasonably filed a protest with all the necessary supporting documents but the BIR failed to act on the protest. Thirty days from the lapse of 180 days from the filing of its protest, Spanflex still has not elevated the matter to the CTA. What remedy, if any, can Spanflex take? (A) It may file a motion to admit appeal if it could prove that its failure to appeal was due to the negligence of counsel. (B) It may no longer appeal since there is no BIR decision from which it could appeal. (C) It may wait for the final decision of the BIR on his protest and appeal it to the CTA within 30 days from receipt of such decision. (D) None. Its right to appeal to the CTA has prescribed.

On March 30, 2005 Miguel Foods, Inc. received a notice of assessment and a letter of demand on its April 15, 2002 final adjustment return from the BIR. Miguel Foods then filed a request for reinvestigation together with the requisite supporting documents on April 25, 2005. On June 2, 2005, the BIR issued a final assessment reducing the amount of the tax demanded. Since Miguel Foods was satisfied with the reduction, it did not do anything anymore. On April 15, 2010 the BIR garnished the corporation's bank deposits to answer for the tax liability. Was the BIR action proper? (A) Yes. The BIR has 5 years from the filing of the protest within which to collect. (B) Yes. The BIR has 5 years from the issuance of the final assessment within which to collect. (C) No. The taxpayer did not apply for a compromise. (D) No. Without the taxpayer's prior authority, the BIR action violated the Bank Deposit Secrecy Law.

Which among the following circumstances negates the prima facie presumption of correctness of a BIR assessment? (A) The BIR assessment was seasonably protested within 30 days from receipt. (B) No preliminary assessment notice was issued prior to the assessment notice. (C) Proof that the assessment is utterly without foundation, arbitrary, and capricious. (D) The BIR did not include a formal letter of demand to pay the alleged deficiency.

Income is considered realized for tax purposes when (A) it is recognized as revenue under accounting standards even if the law does not do so. (B) the taxpayer retires from the business without approval from the BIR. (C) the taxpayer has been paid and has received in cash or near cash the taxable income. (D) the earning process is complete or virtually complete and an exchange has taken place.

Alain Descartes, a French citizen permanently residing in the Philippines, received several items during the taxable year. Which among the following is NOT subject to Philippine income taxation? (A) Consultancy fees received for designing a computer program and installing the same in the Shanghai facility of a Chinese firm. (B) Interests from his deposits in a local bank of foreign currency earned abroad converted to Philippine pesos. (C) Dividends received from an American corporation which derived 60% of its annual gross receipts from Philippine sources for the past 7 years. (D) Gains derived from the sale of his condominium unit located in The Fort, Taguig City to another resident alien.

The BIR could not avail itself of the remedy of levy and distraint to implement, through collection, an assessment that has become final, executory, and demandable where (A) the subject of the assessment is an income tax. (B) the amount of the tax involved does not exceed P100.00. (C) the corporate taxpayer has no other uncollected tax liability. (D) the taxpayer is an individual compensation income earner.

Which among the following taxpayers is required to use only the calendar year for tax purposes? (A) Partnership exclusively for the design of government infrastructure projects considered as practice of civil engineering. (B) Joint-stock company formed for the purpose of undertaking construction projects. (C) Business partnership engaged in energy operations under a service contract with the government. (D) Joint account (cuentas en participacion) engaged in the trading of mineral ores.

On July 31, 2011, Esperanza received a preliminary assessment notice from the BIR demanding that she pays P180,000.00 deficiency income taxes on her 2009 income. How many days from July 31, 2011 should Esperanza respond to the notice? (A) 180 days. (B) 30 days. (C) 60 days. (D) 15 days.

Don Fortunato, a widower, died in May, 2011. In his will, he left his estate of P100 million to his four children. He named his compadre, Don Epitacio, to be the administrator of the estate. When the BIR sent a demand letter to Don Epitacio for the payment of the estate tax, he refused to pay claiming that he did not benefit from the estate, he not being an heir. Forthwith, he resigned as administrator. As a result of the resignation, who may be held liable for the payment of the estate tax? (A) Don Epitacio since the tax became due prior to his resignation. (B) The eldest child who would be reimbursed by the others. (C) All the four children, the tax to be divided equally among them. (D) The person designated by the will as the one liable.

In January 2011, the BIR issued a ruling that Clemen's vodka imports were not subject to increased excise tax based on his claim that his net retail price was only P200 per 750 milliliter bottle. This ruling was applied to his imports for May, June, and July 2011. In September 2011, the BIR revoked its ruling and assessed him for deficiency taxes respecting his May, June and July 2011 vodka imports because it discovered that his net retail price for the vodka was P250 per bottle from January to September 2011. Does the retroactive application of the revocation violate Clemen's right to due process as a taxpayer? (A) Yes, since the presumption is that the BIR ascertained the facts before it made its ruling. (B) No, because he acted in bad faith when he claimed a lower net retail price than what he actually used. (C) No, since he could avail of remedies available for disputing the assessment. (D) Yes, since he had already acquired a vested right in the favorable BIR ruling.

Ka Pedring Matibag, a sole proprietor, buys and sells "kumot at kulambo" both of which are subject to value-added tax. Since he is using the calendar year as his taxable year, his taxable quarters end on the last day of March, June, September, and December. When should Ka Pedring file the VAT quarterly return for his gross sales or receipts for the period of June 1 to September 30? (A) Within 25 days from September 30 (B) Within 45 days from September 30 (C) Within 15 days from September 30 (D) Within 30 days from September 30

Which among the following reduces the gross estate (not the net estate) of a citizen of the Philippines for purposes of estate taxation? (A) Transfers for public use (B) Property previously taxed (C) Standard deduction of P1 million (D) Capital of the surviving spouse

What is the rule on the taxability of income that a government educational institution derives from its school operations? Such income is (A) subject to 10% tax on its net taxable income as if it is a proprietary educational institution. (B) Exempt from income taxation if it is actually, directly, and exclusively used for educational purposes. (C) subject to the ordinary income tax rates with respect to incomes derived from educational activities. (D) Exempt from income taxation in the same manner as government-owned and controlled corporations.

A corporation may change its taxable year to calendar or fiscal year in filing its annual income tax return, provided (A) it seeks prior BIR approval of its proposed change in accounting period. (B) it simultaneously seeks BIR approval of its new accounting period. (C) it should change its accounting period two years prior to changing its taxable year. (D) its constitution and by-laws authorizes the change.

An example of a tax where the concept of progressivity 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.

Federico, a Filipino citizen, migrated to the United States some six years ago and got a permanent resident status or green card. He should pay his Philippine income taxes on (A) the gains derived from the sale in California, U.S.A. of jewelry he purchased in the Philippines. (B) the proceeds he received from a Philippine insurance company as the sole beneficiary of life insurance taken by his father who died recently. (C) the gains derived from the sale in the New York Stock Exchange of shares of stock in PLDT, a Philippine corporation. (D) dividends received from a two-year old foreign corporation whose gross income was derived solely from Philippine sources.

Exempted from donor's taxation are gifts made (A) for the use of the barangay. (B) in consideration of marriage. (C) to a school which is a stock corporation. (D) to a for-profit government corporation.

In 2010, Juliet Ulbod earned P500,000.00 as income from her beauty parlor and received P250,000.00 as Christmas gift from her spinster aunt. She had no other receipts for the year. She spent P150,000.00 for the operation of her beauty parlor. For tax purposes, her gross income for 2010 is (A) P750,000.00. (B) P500,000.00. (C) P350,000.00. (D) P600,000.00.

Passive income includes income derived from an activity in which the earner does not have any substantial participation. This type of income is (A) usually subject to a final tax. (B) exempt from income taxation. (C) taxable only if earned by a citizen. (D) included in the income tax return.

Although the power of taxation is basically legislative in character, it is NOT the function of Congress to (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.

The actual effort exerted by the government to effect the exaction of what is due from the taxpayer is known as (A) assessment. (B) levy. (C) payment. (D) collection.

In 2009, Spratz, Inc.'s net profit before tax was P35 million while its operating expenses was P31 million. In 2010, its net profit before tax was P40 million and its operating expenses was P38 million. It did not declare dividends for 2009 and 2010. And it has no proposed capital expenditures for 2011 and the immediate future. May Spratz be subject to the improperly accumulated tax on its retained profits for 2009 and 2010? (A) Yes, since the accumulated amounts are reasonable for operations in relation to what it usually needed annually. (B) Yes, since the accumulation is not reasonably necessary for the immediate needs of the business. (C) No, because there is no showing that the taxpayer's 2009 and 2010 net profit before tax exceeded its paid-up capital. (D) No, because the taxpayer is not shown to be a publicly-listed corporation, a bank, or an insurance company.

Aplets Corporation is registered under the laws of the Virgin Islands. It has extensive operations in Southeast Asia. In the Philippines, its products are imported and sold at a mark-up by its exclusive distributor, Kim's Trading, Inc. The BIR compiled a record of all the imports of Kim from Aplets and imposed a tax on Aplets' net income derived from its exports to Kim. Is the BIR correct? (A) Yes. Aplets is a non-resident foreign corporation engaged in trade or business in the Philippines. (B) No. The tax should have been computed on the basis of gross revenues and not net income. (C) No. Aplets is a non-resident foreign corporation not engaged in trade or business in the Philippines. (D) Yes. Aplets is doing business in the Philippines through its exclusive distributor Kim's Trading, Inc.

Anktryd, Inc., bought a parcel of land in 2009 for P7 million as part of its inventory of real properties. In 2010, it sold the land for P12 million which was its zonal valuation. In the same year, it incurred a loss of P6 million for selling another parcel of land in its inventory. These were the only transactions it had in its real estate business. Which of the following is the applicable tax treatment? (A) Anktryd shall be subject to a tax of 6% of P12 million. (B) Anktryd could deduct its P6 million loss from its P5 million gain. (C) Anktryd's gain of P5 million shall be subject to the holding period. (D) Anktryd's P6 million loss could not be deducted from its P5 million gain.

Tong Siok, a Chinese billionaire and a Canadian resident, died and left assets in China valued at P80 billion and in the Philippines assets valued at P20 billion. For Philippine estate tax purposes the allowable deductions for expenses, losses, indebtedness, and taxes, property previously taxed, transfers for public use, and the share of his surviving spouse in their conjugal partnership amounted to P15 billion. Tong's gross estate for Philippine estate tax purposes is (A) P20 billion. (B) P5 billion. (C) P100 billion. (D) P85 billion.

Mia, a compensation income earner, filed her income tax return for the taxable year 2007 on March 30, 2008. On May 20, 2011, Mia received an assessment notice and letter of demand covering the taxable year 2007 but the postmark on the envelope shows April 10, 2011. Her return is not a false and fraudulent return. Can Mia raise the defense of prescription? (A) No. The 3-year prescriptive period started to run on April 15, 2008, hence, it has not yet expired on April 10, 2011. (B) Yes. The 3-year prescriptive period started to run on April 15, 2008, hence, it had already expired by May 20, 2011. (C) No. The prescriptive period started to run on March 30, 2008, hence, the 3-year period expired on April 10, 2011. (D) Yes. Since the 3-year prescriptive period started to run on March 30, 2008, it already expired by May 20, 2011.

The spouses Helena and Federico wanted to donate a parcel of land to their son Dondon who is getting married in December, 2011. The parcel of land has a zonal valuation of P420,000.00. What is the most efficient mode of donating the property? (A) The spouses should first donate in 2011 a portion of the property valued at P20,000.00 then spread the P400,000.00 equally for 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. (B) Spread the donation over a period of 5 years by the spouses donating P100,000.00 each year from 2011 to 2015. (C) The spouses should each donate a P110,000.00 portion of the value of the property in 2011 then each should donate P100,000.00 in 2012. (D) The spouses should each donate a P100,000.00 portion of the value of the property in 2011, and another P100,000.00 each in 2012. Then, in 2013, Helena should donate the remaining P20,000.00.

Which theory in taxation states that without taxes, a government would be paralyzed for lack of power to activate and operate it, resulting in its destruction? (A) Power to destroy theory (B) Lifeblood theory (C) Sumptuary theory (D) Symbiotic doctrine

Amaretto, Inc., imported 100 cases of Marula wine from South Africa. The shipment was assessed duties and value-added taxes of P300,000 which Amaretto, Inc. immediately paid. The Bureau of Customs did not, however, issue the release papers of the shipment yet since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) needed to test the suitability of the wine for human consumption. Is the Bureau of Customs at fault for refusing to release the shipment just as yet? (A) Yes, because the importation was already terminated as a result of the payment of the taxes due. (B) Yes, the Bureau of Customs is estopped from holding the release of the shipment after receiving the payment. (C) No, if the amount paid as duties and value-added taxes due on the importation was insufficient. (D) No, because the Bureau of Customs has not issued the legal permit for withdrawal pending the FDA's findings.

Keyrand, Inc., a Philippine corporation, sold through the local stock exchange 10,000 PLDT shares that it bought 2 years ago. Keyrand sold the shares for P2 million and realized a net gain of P200,000.00. How shall it pay tax on the transaction? (A) It shall declare a P2 million gross income in its income tax return, deducting its cost of acquisition as an expense. (B) It shall report the P200,000.00 in its corporate income tax return adjusted by the holding period. (C) It shall pay 5% tax on the first P100,000.00 of the P200,000.00 and 10% tax on the remaining P100,000.00. (D) It shall pay a tax of one-half of 1% of the P2 million gross sales.

There is no taxable income until such income is recognized. Taxable income is recognized when the (A) taxpayer fails to include the income in his income tax return. (B) income has been actually received in money or its equivalent. (C) income has been received, either actually or constructively. (D) transaction that is the source of the income is consummated.

Guidant Resources Corporation, a corporation registered in Norway, has a 50 MW electric power plant in San Jose, Batangas. Aside from Guidant's income from its power plant, which among the following is considered as part of its income from sources within the Philippines? (A) Gains from the sale to an Ilocos Norte power plant of generators bought from the United States. (B) Interests earned on its dollar deposits in a Philippine bank under the Expanded Foreign Currency Deposit System. (C) Dividends from a two-year old Norwegian subsidiary with operations in Zambia but derives 60% of its gross income from the Philippines. (D) Royalties from the use in Brazil of generator sets designed in the Philippines by its engineers.

The payor of passive income subject to final tax is required to withhold the tax from the payment due the recipient. The withholding of the tax has the effect of (A) a final settlement of the tax liability on the income. (B) a credit from the recipient's income tax liability. (C) consummating the transaction resulting in an income. (D) a deduction in the recipient's income tax return.

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 to equal protection. (D) does not violate the right to equal protection.

What is the rule on appeal from decisions of the Collector of Customs in protest and seizure cases? When is the decision of the Collector of Customs appealable to the Court of Tax Appeals? Explain. (5%)

What are the conditions that must be complied with before the Court of Tax Appeals may suspend the collection of national internal revenue taxes? (3%)

Based on the Affidavit of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR), an Information for failure to file income tax return under Section 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) was filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) with the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) against XX, a Manila resident. XX moved to quash the Information on the ground that the RTC has no jurisdiction in view of the absence of a formal deficiency tax assessment issued by the CIR. Is a prior assessment necessary before an Information for violation of Section 255 of the NIRC could be filed in court? Explain. (4%)

Does the Court of Appeals have the power to review compromise agreements forged by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue and a taxpayer? Explain. (5%)

On March 10, 2010, Continental, Inc. received a preliminary assessment notice (PAN) dated March 1, 2010 issued by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (CIR) for deficiency income tax for its taxable year 2008. It failed to protest the PAN. The CIR thereupon issued a final assessment notice (FAN) with letter of demand on April 30, 2010. The FAN was received by the corporation on May 10, 2010, following which or on May 25, 2010, it filed its protest against it. The CIR denied the protest on the ground that the assessment had already become final and executory, the corporation having failed to protest the PAN. Is the CIR correct? Explain. (5%)

Mirador, Inc., a domestic corporation, filed its Annual Income Tax Return for its taxable year 2008 on April 15, 2009. In the Return, it reflected an income tax overpayment of P1,000,000.00 and indicated its choice to carry-over the overpayment as an automatic tax credit against its income tax liabilities in subsequent years. On April 15, 2010, it filed its Annual Income Tax Return for its taxable year 2009 reflecting a taxable loss and an income tax overpayment for the current year 2009 in the amount of P500,000.00 and its income tax overpayment for the prior year 2008 of P1,000,000.00. In its 2009 Return, the corporation indicated its option to claim for refund the total income tax overpayment of P1,500,000.00. Choose which of the following statements is correct. (A) Mirador, Inc. may claim as refund the total income tax overpayment of P1,500,000.00 reflected in its income tax return for its taxable year 2009; (B) It may claim as refund the amount of P500,000.00 representing its income tax overpayment for its taxable year 2009; or (C) No amount may be claimed as refund. Explain the basis of your answer. (5%)

(A) What is the "all events test"? Explain briefly. (2%) (B) What is the "immediacy test"? Explain briefly. (2%) (C) What is the "rational basis" test? Explain briefly. (2%) (D) What is the effect of the execution by a taxpayer of a "waiver of the statute of limitations" on his defense of prescription? (2%) (E) What is the basis for the computation of business tax on contractors under the Local Government Code? (2%) (F) How are retiring businesses taxed under the Local Government Code? (2%)

True or False. (A) In civil cases involving the collection of internal revenue taxes, prescription is construed strictly against the government and liberally in favor of the taxpayer. (1%) (B) In criminal cases involving tax offenses punishable under the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC), prescription is construed strictly against the government. (1%) (C) In criminal cases where the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) has exclusive original jurisdiction, the right to file a separate civil action for the recovery of taxes may be reserved. (1%) (D) Proceedings before the CTA in the exercise of its exclusive original jurisdiction are in the nature of trial de novo. (1%) (E) Judgments, resolutions or orders of the Regional Trial Court in the exercise of its original jurisdiction involving criminal offenses arising from violations of the NIRC are appealable to the CTA, which shall hear the cases en banc. (1%)

Are the following transactions subject to VAT? If yes, what is the applicable rate for each transaction. State the relevant authority/ies for your answer. (a) Construction by XYZ Construction Co. of concrete barriers for the Asian Development Bank in Ortigas Center to prevent car bombs from ramming the ADB gates along ADB Avenue in Mandaluyong City. (3%) (b) Call Center operated by a domestic enterprise in Makati that handles exclusively the reservations of a hotel chain which are all located in North America. The services are paid for in US$ and duly accounted for with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (3%) (c) Sale of orchids by a flower shop which raises its flowers in Tagaytay. (3%)

True or False. (1% each) (A) Gains realized by the investor upon redemption of shares of stock in a mutual fund company are exempt from income tax. (B) A corporation can claim the optional standard deduction equivalent to 40% of its gross sales or receipts, as the case may be. (C) Premium payment for health insurance of an individual who is an employee in an amount of P2,500 per year may be deducted from gross income if his gross salary per year is not more than P250,000. (D) The Tax Code allows an individual taxpayer to pay in two equal installments, the first installment to be paid at the time the return is filed, and the second on or before July 15 of the same year, if his tax due exceeds P2,000. (E) An individual taxpayer can adopt either the calendar or fiscal period for purposes of filing his income tax return. (F) The capitalization rules may be resorted to by the BIR in order to compel corporate taxpayers to declare dividends to their stockholders regularly. (G) Informer's reward is subject to a final withholding tax of 10%. (H) A non-resident alien who stays in the Philippines for less than 180 days during the calendar year shall be entitled to personal exemption not to exceed the amount allowed to citizens of the Philippines by the country of which he is subject or citizen.

On May 15, 2009, La Manga Trading Corporation received a deficiency business tax assessment of P1,500,000.00 from the Pasay City Treasurer. On June 30, 2009, the corporation contested the assessment by filing a written protest with the City Treasurer. On October 10, 2009, the corporation received a collection letter from the City Treasurer, drawing it to file on October 25, 2009 an appeal against the assessment before the Pasay Regional Trial Court (RTC). (A) Was the protest of the corporation filed on time? Explain. (3%) (B) Was the appeal with the Pasay RTC filed on time? Explain. (3%)

A final assessment notice was issued by the BIR on June 13, 2000, and received by the taxpayer on June 15, 2000. The taxpayer protested the assessment on July 31, 2000. The protest was initially given due course, but was eventually denied by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue in a decision dated June 15, 2005. The taxpayer then filed a petition for review with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA), but the CTA dismissed the same. (a) Is the CTA correct in dismissing the petition for review? Explain your answer. (4%) (b) Assume that the CTA's decision dismissing the petition for review has become final. May the Commissioner legally enforce collection of the delinquent tax? Explain. (4%)

Ernesto, a Filipino citizen and a practicing lawyer, filed his income tax return for 2007 claiming optional standard deductions. Realizing that he has enough documents to substantiate his profession-connected expenses, he now plans to file an amended income tax return for 2007, in order to claim itemized deductions, since no audit has been commenced by the BIR on the return he previously filed. Will Ernesto be allowed to amend his return? Why or why not? (4%)

Miguel, a citizen and resident of Mexico, donated US$1,000.00 worth of stocks in Barack Motors Corporation, a Mexican company, to his legitimate son, Miguelito, who is residing in the Philippines and about to be married to a Filipino girlfriend. Mexico does not impose any transfer tax of whatever nature on all gratuitous transfers of property. (a) Is Miguel entitled to claim a dowry exclusion? Why or why not? (3%) (b) Is Miguel entitled to the rule of reciprocity in order to be exempt from the Philippine donor's tax? Why or why not? (3%)

Emiliano Paupahan is engaged in the business of leasing out several residential apartment units he owns. The monthly rental for each unit ranges from P8,000.00 to P10,000.00. His gross rental income for one year is P1,650,000.00. He consults you on whether it is necessary for him to register as a VAT taxpayer. What legal advice will you give him, and why? (4%)

In 1999, Xavier purchased from his friend, Yuri, a painting for P500,000.00. The fair market value (FMV) of the painting at the time of the purchase was P1-million. Yuri paid all the corresponding taxes on the transaction. In 2001, Xavier died. In his last will and testament, Xavier bequeathed the painting, already worth P1.5-million, to his only son, Zandro. The will also granted Zandro the power to appoint his wife, Wilma, as successor to the painting in the event of Zandro's death. Zandro died in 2007, and Wilma succeeded to the property. (a) Should the painting be included in the gross estate of Xavier in 2001 and thus, be subject to estate tax? Explain. (3%) (b) Should the painting be included in the gross estate of Zandro in 2007 and thus, be subject to estate tax? Explain. (3%) (c) May a vanishing deduction be allowed in either or both of the estates? Explain. (3%)

YYY Corporation engaged the services of the Manananggol Law Firm in 2006 to defend the corporation's title over a property used in the business. For the legal services rendered in 2007, the law firm billed the corporation only in 2008. The corporation duly paid the same. YYY Corporation claimed this expense as a deduction from gross income in its 2008 return, because the exact amount of the expense was determined only in 2008. Is YYY's claim of deduction proper? Reason. (4%)

The City of Manila enacted Ordinance No. 55-66 which imposes a municipal occupation tax on persons practicing various professions in the city. Among those subjected to the occupation tax were lawyers. Atty. Mariano Batas, who has a law office in Manila, pays the ordinance-imposed occupation tax under protest. He goes to court to assail the validity of the ordinance for being discriminatory. Decide with reasons. (3%)

Kenya International Airlines (KIA) is a foreign corporation, organized under the laws of Kenya. It is not licensed to do business in the Philippines. Its commercial airplanes do not operate within Philippine territory, or service passengers embarking from Philippine airports. The firm is represented in the Philippines by its general agent, Philippine Airlines (PAL), a Philippine corporation. KIA sells airplane tickets through PAL, and these tickets are serviced by KIA airplanes outside the Philippines. The total sales of airline tickets transacted by PAL for KIA in 1997 amounted to P2,968,156.00. The Commissioner of Internal Revenue assessed KIA deficiency income taxes at the rate of 35% on its taxable income, finding that KIA's airline ticket sales constituted income derived from sources within the Philippines. KIA filed a protest on the ground that the P2,968,156.00 should be considered as income derived exclusively from sources outside the Philippines since KIA only serviced passengers outside Philippine territory. Is the position of KIA tenable? Reason. (4%)

The Sangguniang Bayan of the Municipality of Sampaloc, Quezon, passed an ordinance imposing a storage fee of ten centavos (P0.10) for every 100 kilos of copra deposited in any bodega within the Municipality's jurisdiction. The Metropolitan Manufacturing Corporation (MMC), with principal office in Makati, is engaged in the manufacture of soap, edible oil, margarine, and other coconut oil-based products. It has a warehouse in Sampaloc, Quezon, used as storage space for the copra purchased in Sampaloc and nearby towns before the same is shipped to Makati. MMC goes to court to challenge the validity of the ordinance, demanding the refund of the storage fees it paid under protest. Is the ordinance valid? Explain your answer. (4%)

Jessie brought into the Philippines a foreign-made luxury car, and paid less than the actual taxes and duties due. Due to the discrepancy, the Bureau of Customs instituted seizure proceedings and issued a warrant of seizure and detention. The car, then parked inside a pay parking garage, was seized and brought by government agents to a government impounding facility. The Collector of Customs denied Jessie's request for the withdrawal of the warrant. Aggrieved, Jessie filed against the Collector a criminal complaint for usurpation of judicial functions on the ground that only a judge may issue a warrant of search and seizure. (a) Resolve with reasons Jessie's criminal complaint. (4%) (b) Would your answer be the same if the luxury car was seized while parked inside the garage of Jessie's residence? Why or why not? (4%)

International Technologies, Inc. (ITI) filed a claim for refund for unutilized input VAT with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA). In the course of the trial, ITI engaged the services of an independent Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who examined the voluminous invoices and receipts of ITI. ITI offered in evidence only the summary prepared by the CPA, without the invoices and the receipts, and then submitted the case for decision. Can the CTA grant ITI's claim for refund based only on the CPA's summary? Explain. (4%)

Melissa inherited from her father a 300-square-meter lot. At the time of her father's death on March 14, 1995, the property was valued at P720,000.00. On February 28, 1996, to defray the cost of the medical expenses of her sick son, she sold the lot for P600,000.00, on cash basis. The prevailing market value of the property at the time of the sale was P3,000.00 per square meter. (a) Is Melissa liable to pay capital gains tax on the transaction? If so, how much and why? If not, why not? (4%) (b) Is Melissa liable to pay Value Added Tax (VAT) on the sale of the property? If so, how much and why? If not, why not? (4%)

Republic Power Corporation (RPC) is a government-owned and controlled corporation engaged in the supply, generation and transmission of electric power. In 2005, in order to provide electricity to Southern Tagalog provinces, RPC entered into an agreement with Jethro Energy Corporation (JEC), for the lease of JEC's power barges which shall be berthed at the port of Batangas City. The contract provides that JEC shall own the power barges and the fixtures, fittings, machinery, and equipment therein, all of which JEC shall supply at its own cost, and that JEC shall operate, manage and maintain the power barges for the purpose of converting the fuel of RPC into electricity. The contract also stipulates that all real estate taxes and assessments, rates and other charges, in respect of the power barges, shall be for the account of RPC. In 2007, JEC received an assessment of real property taxes on the power barges from the Assessor of Batangas City. JEC sought reconsideration of the assessment on the ground that the power barges are exempt from real estate taxes under Section 234 [c] of R.A. 7160 as they are actually, directly and exclusively used by RPC, a government-owned and controlled corporation. Furthermore, even assuming that the power barges are subject to real property tax, RPC should be held liable therefor, in accordance with the terms of the lease agreement. Is the contention of JEC correct? Explain your answer. (4%)

Enumerate the four (4) inherent limitations on taxation. Explain each item briefly. (4%)

TRUE or FALSE. Answer TRUE if the statement is true, or FALSE if the statement is false. Explain your answer in not more than two (2) sentences. (5%) (a) A law that allows taxes to be paid either in cash or in kind is valid. (b) When the financial position of the taxpayer demonstrates a clear inability to pay the tax, the Commissioner of Internal Revenue may validly compromise the tax liability. (c) The doctrine of equitable recoupment allows a taxpayer whose claim for refund has prescribed to offset tax liabilities with his claim of overpayment. (d) A law imposing a tax on income of religious institutions derived from the sale of religious articles is valid. (e) A false return and a fraudulent return are one and the same.

Raffy and Wena, husband and wife, are both employed by XXX Corporation. After office hours, they jointly manage a coffee shop at the ground floor of their house. The coffee shop is registered in the name of both spouses. Which of the following is the correct way to prepare their income tax return? Write the letter only. DO NOT EXPLAIN YOUR ANSWER. (2%) (a) Raffy will declare as his income the salaries of both spouses, while Wena will declare the income from the coffee shop. (b) Wena will declare the combined compensation income of the spouses, and Raffy will declare the income from the coffee shop. (c) All the income will be declared by Raffy alone, because only one consolidated return is required to be filed by the spouses. (d) Raffy will declare his own compensation income and Wena will declare hers. The income from the coffee shop shall be equally divided between them. Each spouse shall be taxed separately on their corresponding taxable income to be covered by one consolidated return for the spouses. (e) Raffy will declare his own compensation income and Wena will declare hers. The income from the coffee shop shall be equally divided between them. Raffy will file one income tax return to cover all the income of both spouses, and the tax is computed on the aggregate taxable income of the spouses.

ABCD Corporation (ABCD) is a domestic corporation with individual and corporate shareholders who are residents of the United States. For the 2nd quarter of 1983, these U.S.-based individual and corporate stockholders received cash dividends from the corporation. The corresponding withholding tax on dividend income --- 30% for individual and 35% for corporate non-resident stockholders --- was deducted at source and remitted to the BIR. On May 15, 1984, ABCD filed with the Commissioner of Internal Revenue a formal claim for refund, alleging that under the RP-US Tax Treaty, the deduction withheld at source as tax on dividends earned was fixed at 25% of said income. Thus, ABCD asserted that it overpaid the withholding tax due on the cash dividends given to its non-resident stockholders in the U.S. The Commissioner denied the claim. On January 17, 1985, ABCD filed a petition with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) reiterating its demand for refund. (a) Does ABCD Corporation have the legal personality to file the refund on behalf of its non-resident stockholders? Why or why not? (3%) (b) Is the contention of ABCD Corporation correct? Why or why not? (3%)

Masarap Food Corporation (MFC) incurred substantial advertising expenses in order to protect its brand franchise for one of its line products. In its income tax return, MFC included the advertising expense as deduction from gross income, claiming it as an ordinary business expense. Is MFC correct? Explain. (3%)

Johnny transferred a valuable 10-door commercial apartment to a designated trustee, Miriam, naming in the trust instrument Santino, Johnny's 10-year old son, as the sole beneficiary. The trustee is instructed to distribute the yearly rentals amounting to P720,000.00. The trustee consults you if she has to pay the annual income tax on the rentals received from the commercial apartment. (a) What advice will you give the trustee? Explain. (3%) (b) Will your advice be the same if the trustee is directed to accumulate the rental income and distribute the same only when the beneficiary reaches the age of majority? Why or why not? (3%)

A taxpayer received an assessment notice from the BIR on February 3, 2009. The following day, he filed a protest, in the form of a request for reinvestigation, against the assessment and submitted all relevant documents in support of the protest. On September 11, 2009, the taxpayer, apprehensive because he had not yet received notice of a decision by the Commissioner on his protest, sought your advice. What remedy or remedies are available to the taxpayer? Explain. (4%)