Rama wants P5B from taxes, permits

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama has challenged City Treasurer’s Office to collect P5 billion from the renewal of business permits, real property taxes, business taxes and regulatory fees this year.

“It’s up to them on how they will come up with the amount… they have reached last year P1 billion, I challenged them to reach it to P5 billion this year,” he said.

Rama said that this year will be very “active” year in terms of looking for funds to support the city government’s operations and expenses.

Last month, the City Council approved the city’s biggest annual budget at P13.4 billion.

“I’m also having another message to the taxpayers that this year is an active year in really looking for funds and making plans implemented,” he said.

The city government has started the renewal and application of new business permits yesterday at SM City Cebu’s Trade Hall where a one-stop shop was set up.

At least 27,000 business owners are expected to renew their business permits starting January 5 until January 23 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Rama said that taxpayers and business owners should not wait for the deadline because he has been considerate in making the process as quick as possible.

“Every day is a deadline day,” he said, adding that there will be no noon breaks to cater to applicants.

City Treasurer Diwa Cuevas said that there was a smooth flow of the process yesterday, adding that she welcomes the challenge of the mayor to collect P5 billion this year as she is confident it can be achieved with the help of the taxpayers.

“Among paninguhaon lang g’yud nga ma-achieve ang target,” she said, adding that intensifying collection will also help.

Rama said that the city government is considering the general revision of real property taxes which is outdated by 11 years to achieve the target collection. He said that revisions may be implemented this year or next year.

On issues regarding compelling business owners to pay their dues, Rama said that the legal office will be active in tracking down tax evaders.  (FREEMAN)