A significant shift has occurred at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. appointing Charlito Martin R. Mendoza as the new commissioner. This change comes at a critical juncture, as the agency faces mounting pressure to achieve its ambitious 2025 revenue collection goals.
The move replaces Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr., who acknowledged earlier this week the possibility of falling short of the P3.219-trillion target. Lumagui had expressed concerns about the current trajectory, stating that reaching the goal would be “quite difficult” without adjustments.
Mendoza officially took his oath before the President at Malacañan Palace, signaling a new direction for the BIR. Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto voiced strong confidence in Mendoza’s ability to not only meet but exceed revenue expectations.
Recto described Mendoza as a “steady hand and reform-driven leader,” highlighting his recent role as Finance Undersecretary since April 2024. In this capacity, Mendoza oversaw the Revenue Operations Group, forging close working relationships with both the BIR and the Bureau of Customs.
Mendoza’s experience extends beyond the Department of Finance. He previously led the Bureau of Customs Port of Cebu from 2019 to 2022, a period marked by record-breaking revenue collections and significant advancements in border security.
Under his leadership, the Port of Cebu achieved a landmark accomplishment: becoming the first Customs collection district in the Philippines to attain ISO 9001:2015 certification across all its ports and subports. This demonstrated a commitment to standardized, high-quality operations.
Before entering public service, Mendoza established a distinguished legal career. He was a founding partner at the Palafox Patriarca Romero and Mendoza Law Firm, building upon experience gained at prominent firms like Angara Abello Concepcion Regala and Cruz Law Offices and Suarez and Narvasa Law Firm.
Mendoza’s academic achievements are equally impressive. He placed third in the 2004 Philippine Bar Examinations after completing his law degree at San Beda University. He also holds a degree in Geodetic Engineering from the University of the Philippines, and remains a licensed Geodetic Engineer.
Despite recent growth – BIR collections increased by 10.88% to P2.32 trillion in the first nine months of the year – the agency still faces a substantial gap of approximately P897 billion to reach its annual target. The appointment of Mendoza is viewed as a strategic step to address this challenge.
Secretary Recto praised Lumagui’s contributions, acknowledging him as a “great partner” and a “fearless leader” who strengthened the BIR’s credibility. However, the need for increased revenue collection remains paramount, particularly to support the government’s budget and initiatives aimed at inclusive growth and poverty reduction.
Analysts emphasize that this leadership change underscores the importance of fiscal reform and sound financial management for the long-term economic health of the nation and future generations.
