BIR Commissioner Jose Mario Buñag advised taxpayers to proceed to the nearest bank designated as an authorized agent bank (AAB) of the bureau to file their returns and pay the correct taxes.

Buñag said that by filing their returns early, taxpayers are assured of a peaceful and hassle-free Holy Week.

He, however, warned that those who fail to beat the deadline will be slapped with the necessary sanctions and penalties.

Makati Revenue Regional Director Nelson Aspe said there are about 20 commercial banks designated as AABs by the BIR and all of them will be open this Saturday to attend to tax files.

Aspe said banks have also agreed to extend their banking hours up to 5 p.m. from April 1 to April 17.

He said tax payments may be made over-thecounter and may either be in cash, check, and other acceptable modes of payment.

Among these modes is the bank debit system where the amount due from a taxpayer is debited from his bank deposit.

There is also the electronic filing and payment system (EFPS) which is done via the Internet, particularly by logging on the BIR’s website at www.bir.gov.ph.

Other modes of payment are the efficient service machine (an automated kiosk developed by the Land Bank) and the mobile payment which is done via cellular phones through text messages.