MANILA — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), and UnionBank have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to integrate UnionBank’s UPay Facility into the national collection system.

The partnership aims to expand web- and mobile-based channels for taxpayers to pay taxes and other government obligations, while enhancing efficiency, transparency, and security in electronic transactions.

The MOA, signed at UnionBank Plaza in Pasig City, consolidates prior agreements covering UnionBank’s role as an Authorized Agent Bank for collecting and remitting National Internal Revenue Taxes and Customs Duties.

BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza said the initiative is part of ongoing modernization efforts to improve taxpayer experience and revenue administration.

“The UPay Facility provides taxpayers with enhanced web and mobile options to settle their obligations, reducing the need for in-person queues and manual processing,” Mendoza said.

“Sa madaling salita, pinapadali natin ang pagbabayad ng buwis (In short, we’re making paying taxes easier). And when the process is easier, trust grows and voluntary compliance becomes stronger,” he added.

Mendoza said the program aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve government service and the Department of Finance’s economic reform agenda.

UnionBank President and CEO Ana Maria Aboitiz Delgado said the bank will provide multiple channels for taxpayers, including over-the-counter payments, digital banking, and UPay using InstaPay, PCHC, PayGate, and other electronic rails.

Treasurer of the Philippines Sharon Almanza highlighted the role of digital transformation in improving public financial management and taxpayer access.

“Through this Memorandum of Agreement and the UPay Facility, we are introducing secure, convenient and cost-effective digital payment solutions that will help accelerate remittances and enhance transparency,” Almanza said.