Bernie Anabo Jr.
The taxman is no longer knocking politely at the door—it is kicking it wide open.
Under the battle cry of “Assistance First to Comply. Enforcement Only When Necessary,” the Bureau of Internal Revenue launched a massive nationwide offensive through Oplan Kandado 2026, sending a powerful message to tax evaders that the days of hiding from obligations are rapidly coming to an end.
The numbers alone are staggering.
A total of 419 cases nationwide were covered during the June 30 operations, representing an estimated P742.1 million in potential tax exposure, while 132 Closure Orders were already enforced before the day ended.
But behind the statistics lies a much bigger story: the emergence of a BIR leadership team determined to balance taxpayer assistance with uncompromising enforcement.
At the forefront is Commissioner Atty. Charlito Martin R. Mendoza, who has transformed Oplan Kandado from a mere enforcement campaign into a compliance-driven operation designed to give businesses every opportunity to correct deficiencies before facing the full force of the law.
Mendoza made it crystal clear: closure is never the first option.
Businesses are assisted, guided, informed, and given every reasonable chance to comply. But once all opportunities are exhausted and deliberate refusal persists, the Bureau moves decisively.
And when it moves, it moves hard.
The nationwide operations were closely monitored through the National Command Center in Quezon City, reflecting a more coordinated, technology-driven, and aggressive enforcement strategy.
Working hand in hand with Commissioner Mendoza is Deputy Commissioner for Operations Atty. Vener Baquiran, whose operational machinery continues to tighten the Bureau’s nationwide compliance network.
Baquiran’s operations group has become the spearhead in translating policy into action—mobilizing Revenue Regions and District Offices, ensuring swift implementation of enforcement measures, and sustaining pressure against habitual violators.
Together, Mendoza and Baquiran are sending a clear warning:
Ignore tax obligations at your own risk.
The campaign is no longer confined to traditional brick-and-mortar establishments.
Even online businesses are now squarely within the Bureau’s sights.
From registration and invoicing to filing and payment requirements, digital entrepreneurs are expected to play by the same rules. Those who refuse may eventually face stronger sanctions, including online takedown mechanisms when authorized by law.
Commissioner Mendoza has consistently emphasized that the Bureau’s approach is rooted in fairness.
The C.H.A.T. Drive—Counsel, Help and Assist Taxpayers— launched earlier this year serves as proof that the BIR prefers voluntary compliance over punitive action.
But the message is unmistakable:
Help is available.
Guidance is available.
Assistance is available.
Yet those who continue to operate outside the law should not be surprised when Oplan Kandado arrives at their doorstep.
Under Mendoza’s watch, the Bureau is evolving into a more responsive institution—one that extends a hand to willing taxpayers but carries a heavy hammer for persistent violators.
And with Baquiran ensuring operational precision nationwide, Oplan Kandado has become more than a compliance program.
It is now a year-round warning shot against tax delinquency.
The numbers matter.
But perhaps the bigger headline is this:
The BIR is no longer simply collecting taxes.
It is reclaiming accountability.
And for businesses still choosing to ignore the rules, Mendoza and Baquiran have delivered the message loud and clear:
Comply while assistance is on the table—because once Oplan Kandado is activated, the lock is only the beginning.
