The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has introduced a mandatory ethics and anti-corruption training program for its workforce as part of its broader effort to strengthen integrity and accountability across the agency.
Launched at the BIR National Office, the Ethical Standards and Anti-Corruption Course for Revenue Officers (ESACOR) will be rolled out in phases, beginning with agency leaders before expanding to all revenue officials and employees nationwide, particularly new hires.
The competency-based course covers ethical standards, anti-corruption measures, sexual harassment prevention, and the Revised Code of Conduct for Revenue Officials and Employees under Revenue Memorandum Order No. 53-2010. It was developed under the BIR’s DARES reform agenda and Integrity Management Program to help personnel navigate ethical dilemmas, prevent conflicts of interest, promote transparency, and foster a respectful workplace.
BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza said the agency’s reform efforts ultimately depend on employees who recognize the public trust attached to their positions.
“Kapag sinabi nating empowered employees, hindi lang ito tungkol sa training, promotions, o welfare programs. Ito ay tungkol sa mga empleyadong nauunawaan ang tiwalang kaakibat ng pagiging lingkod-bayan, pinipiling gawin ang tama, at nagbibigay ng mahusay na serbisyo araw-araw,” Mendoza said.
He added that the course should serve not only as a training program but also as a step toward building a culture of excellence and integrity within the Bureau.
Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, who delivered the keynote address, underscored the role of collective action in driving institutional reform. He compared cultural change in government to pushing a giant wheel, saying that individual acts of integrity can gradually build momentum for broader transformation.
“We’re talking about building momentum to change the culture, to change society, to change our government. But it is possible,” Sotto said.
Following his speech, Sotto led BIR officials and employees in a pledge of commitment to uphold ethical standards, accountability, and professionalism.
Legal Group Deputy Commissioner Larry Barcelo reminded BIR personnel that public office is a public trust and stressed that integrity remains the foundation of lasting reform.
Assistant Commissioner Daniel De Jesus of the Internal Affairs Service presented the key features of ESACOR, describing it as a practical guide for addressing ethical challenges while reinforcing transparency and accountability in public service.
Closing the program, Deputy Commissioner Teresita Angeles encouraged employees to apply the lessons beyond the classroom.
“Let’s not leave this place with just putting it in our minds, but putting the principles—especially integrity—in our hearts,” she said.
The BIR said the institutionalization of ESACOR forms part of its continuing efforts to build a more professional, trustworthy, and citizen-centered revenue service while improving public confidence in the agency.
(MAIN PHOTO: BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza)