Charlito Martin Mendoza Biography: Wife, Early Life, Education, Career, Net Worth & Personal Life

Charlito Martin Mendoza has emerged as one of the Philippines’ most respected public officials, known for his dedication to improving tax systems and revenue collection. On November 12, 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed him as the new Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) — a key agency that funds more than half of the government’s operations through taxes.

Often called Charlie by colleagues, Mendoza combines legal brilliance with decades of hands-on government experience. His leadership arrives at a crucial moment when the country needs fair, transparent, and efficient tax collection to strengthen its economy and support essential public services.

Who is Charlito Martin Mendoza? Early Life and Education

Charlito Martin Mendoza was born and raised in the Philippines in a family that valued education and hard work. Although he keeps his early years private, his academic record reflects deep commitment and focus.

He completed his college degree at the University of the Philippines, one of the nation’s top institutions known for producing influential leaders and thinkers. Later, he pursued a Bachelor of Laws degree from San Beda University, where he graduated with honors.

In 2004, Mendoza took the Philippine Bar Exam and ranked third among thousands of examinees — a rare achievement that immediately earned him national recognition in the legal community. This milestone opened doors to major roles in law and governance.

Later, Mendoza expanded his expertise internationally by becoming a licensed attorney in Illinois, USA, where he learned about global financial systems and trade laws. This experience gave him a broader perspective that he later applied to modernize the Philippines’ tax and customs systems.

Career and Achievements

Mendoza’s public service career spans over two decades, beginning at the Bureau of Customs (BOC) after passing the bar exam. He started in legal advisory roles, focusing on trade regulations, anti-smuggling policies, and customs enforcement.

In July 2019, he was appointed District Collector at the Port of Cebu, one of the busiest trade hubs in the country. Under his leadership, the port recorded record-breaking revenue collections through efficient digital tracking systems, staff training, and transparent operations.

By April 2024, Mendoza’s strong performance led to his appointment as Undersecretary for the Revenue Operations Group at the Department of Finance (DOF) under Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto. In this role, he supervised both the BIR and BOC, introducing reforms like e-invoicing systems, AI-assisted audits, and data-driven oversight to increase efficiency and fairness.

His leadership contributed to revenue growth even amid global challenges, earning praise from government and business sectors alike.

Appointment as BIR Commissioner

On November 12, 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officially appointed Charlito Martin Mendoza as the new Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, replacing Romeo Lumagui Jr.

Lawmakers and economic experts welcomed his appointment. House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez called it a “smart and strategic decision,” while Rep. Joey Salceda praised Mendoza’s integrity and reformist mindset.

As Commissioner, Mendoza will oversee nearly 15,000 BIR employees across 80 offices, focusing on digital transformation, anti-corruption initiatives, and transparent taxpayer services. His goal is to meet the PHP 4.21 trillion revenue target for the 2025 fiscal year, ensuring taxes fund schools, hospitals, and infrastructure that benefit all Filipinos.

Controversies and Challenges

Unlike many public officials, Mendoza has maintained a clean record throughout his career. There are no personal controversies linked to him.

While systemic issues persist within the BIR, such as corruption cases and shortfalls in tax collection, Mendoza is known for addressing them through transparency and technology. During his time as DOF Undersecretary, he spearheaded anti-graft drives and supported digital reforms to prevent fund misuse.

His balanced approach — strict but fair — has earned him respect across both the public and private sectors.

Personal Life

Charlito Martin Mendoza keeps his personal life away from the public eye. He has not shared details about his family or private affairs, preferring to maintain professional focus.

Colleagues describe him as calm, approachable, and deeply ethical. Outside work, he is said to enjoy reading about economics and mentoring young lawyers, often emphasizing integrity and service over personal gain.

From ranking third in the 2004 Bar Exam to becoming BIR Commissioner in 2025, Charlito Martin Mendoza’s journey reflects commitment, intelligence, and reform-minded leadership. His blend of legal skill and practical experience makes him one of the most capable figures in the Philippine government today.

As he takes on the challenge of modernizing the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Mendoza’s mission remains clear — to make tax collection simpler, fairer, and more transparent for every Filipino.

FAQs

Who is Charlito Martin Mendoza?
He is a Filipino lawyer and government official appointed as BIR Commissioner on November 12, 2025.

What is his educational background?
He studied at the University of the Philippines and San Beda University, and ranked 3rd in the 2004 Philippine Bar Exam.

What roles did he hold before becoming BIR Commissioner?
He served as District Collector at Cebu Port (2019–2022) and Undersecretary for Revenue Operations at the DOF (2024–2025).

Why was he chosen as BIR chief?
He was selected for his expertise in tax management, digital reforms, and his clean professional record.

Are there any controversies about him?
None personally. Mendoza has been known for promoting integrity and transparency in revenue operations.

How does he plan to reform the BIR?
By expanding digital filing systems, improving audits with technology, and ensuring fairer taxpayer services.

What is the main function of BIR?
The Bureau of Internal Revenue collects taxes like income tax, VAT, and excise duties that fund public services and national projects.