Tax case filed against Pacquiao

Boxer Manny Pacquiao listens during a news conference last February 23 in New York, to promote an upcoming fight against Tim Bradley Jr. Tax officials in the Philippines have filed a criminal complaint against the boxing hero over ‘discrepancies’ in his tax returns. AP

MANILA, Philippines —The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has filed a criminal complaint against boxing champion and lawmaker Manny Pacquiao for failure to submit documents to investigators looking into his tax returns.

Prosecutors will now decide if there is enough evidence to bring the case to court, where Pacquiao could face up to two years in jail if convicted.

BIR regional director Rozil Lozares said a complaint was filed March 1 after Pacquiao failed to submit the documents despite three notices and a subpoena.

He said Thursday that Pacquiao’s 2010 tax return contained “discrepancies” considering his many businesses and endorsements.

Pacquiao was ranked by Forbes magazine last year as the world’s 24th richest athlete.

Calls to Pacquiao’s office went unanswered.