Senators are calling on the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to pause the rollout of its Registration Seal over concerns about privacy and data protection. The appeal comes ahead of the October 31, 2026, compliance deadline for online sellers, freelancers, and content creators.
Senator Bam Aquino urged the BIR to hold off on implementing the requirement while it reviews complaints from affected taxpayers. Many online entrepreneurs and digital workers have expressed concern that the seal’s QR code could expose personal information.
Senator Pia Cayetano also raised the issue, saying some sellers and creators worry the verification system could make their full legal names accessible. She has reportedly brought the matter to the National Privacy Commission for further review.
The Registration Seal was introduced under Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 38-2026. It is required for online sellers, e-commerce merchants, digital service providers, freelancers, vloggers, influencers, and content creators.
According to the BIR, the seal replaces the public display of a full Certificate of Registration. The agency says this approach reduces the exposure of sensitive tax information while still allowing customers to verify whether a business is properly registered.
Still, some online workers believe the current setup may create privacy and doxing risks. Others are also seeking clearer guidance on who exactly needs to secure a Registration Seal and what information can be viewed through the QR code.
The Registration Seal can be generated for free, although some taxpayers may need to update their registration records before obtaining one.
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For online sellers, freelancers, and creators, any decision from the BIR could affect how they prepare for the October 31 deadline. A review or delay could also give regulators more time to address privacy concerns raised by the digital community.
