RR No. 04-2003: Amends certain sections of RR No 14-97, as amended, otherwise known as the Revenue Regulations governing the imposition of excise tax on automobiles

Key points

1. Definition of automobile. An automobile is a four- or more-wheeled vehicle propelled by gasoline or diesel and specially designed to transport persons, not primarily freight. It excludes trucks, pick-ups, jeep/jeepneys, buses and vehicles for special purpose, and includes utility vehicles and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) designed for both passengers and cargo, except those seating at least 10 adult passengers including the driver.
2. Four-wheel drive vehicles. A closed or covered four-wheel drive vehicle primarily designed to carry passengers is taxed as an automobile, regardless of the number of seats.
3. When tax is imposed. Excise Tax applies to production, assembly or importation of automobiles, including LCVs. It is paid before removal from the place of production or assembly or from Bureau of Customs custody.
4. Brand and model registration. Manufacturers, assemblers, producers and importers apply for brand/model registration with the BIR office having jurisdiction before starting manufacture, assembly, production or importation. Modified registered models are compared with the international version and registered again.
5. Surety bond. Every manufacturer, assembler, producer or importer of automobiles for sale posts a surety bond conditioned on faithful compliance with laws and on satisfaction of all fines and penalties imposed by the Code.

Who is affected

• Manufacturers, assemblers, producers and importers of automobiles

Deadlines and effectivity

• Tax paid before removal from place of production/assembly or from Bureau of Customs custody
• Brand/model registration before commencement of manufacture, assembly, production or importation