As the April tax filing deadline approaches, tax experts organized the seminar “Always Audit-Ready: Bookkeeping and Tax Compliance Practices That Keep Penalties at Bay,” held on February 24 at the D&V Philippines office in One Ayala, Makati City.
The event was organized by Manila Bookkeepers, in partnership with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines (DCCP) and the Board of Investments (BOI).
“This session is designed to help businesses move beyond compliance as a requirement, and instead use it as a tool for confidence, clarity, and sustainable growth, which opens many doors for bigger business opportunities in the Philippines,” organizers said.
Speakers included Atty. Bobby Fondevilla, Executive Director and Head of the BOI Investment Assistance Center; Michael Jaurigue, CPA, Director of Manila Bookkeepers; and Atty. Jose Calsas Jr., CPA, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of D&V Philippines.
During the seminar, the Manila Bookkeepers experts emphasized the importance of reconciliation, proper documentation, and timely tax filing to avoid audit findings.
Mr. Jaurigue discussed the technical aspects of common audit risks and recommended best practices in reconciliation and record-keeping to strengthen tax compliance.
Atty. Calsas shared practical guidance for companies navigating tax compliance and highlighted how strong bookkeeping systems can help prevent costly disputes with tax authorities.
Meanwhile, Atty. Fondevilla highlighted the BOI’s role in supporting investors and businesses of all sizes through investment facilitation programs and regulatory reforms.
Under its “Regulatory Reforms and Investment Facilitation Incentives,” the BOI aims to “boost investments in industries and in the countryside, aiming for both job generation and balanced economic development.”
Fondevilla also introduced programs such as the Strategic Investor Aftercare Program (SIAP), Key Accounts Management System (KAMS), and BOI-LOKAL, which are designed to help businesses navigate regulatory requirements and grow their operations.
Experts said adopting an “always audit-ready” mindset, supported by strong bookkeeping and proactive compliance, can help companies avoid penalties while protecting their reputation and supporting long-term growth.