Mandaue set to close 67 establishments

CEBU, Philippines – At least 67 business establishments in Mandaue City were recommended for closure for failing “to comply, after repeated demands to settle their business tax and other fees and/or secure the necessary permits from the city.”

City Treasurer Atty. Regal Oliva clarified, though, that the establishments can still settle their obligations before the mayor issues the formal closure order.

“Dili pa ni siya ipa-close. The order for closure is always ordered by the mayor,” Oliva said.

Of the 67, 53 establishments are located at the City South Special Administrative Zone at the North Reclamation Area, 13 are located in Barangay Subangdaku, and one is located in Barangay Tipolo.

Oliva said most of the establishments are “a bit small”.

He said the demand letters were sent to the establishments since last June after the scheduled renewal of business permits in the city.

“Magkadako ang non-compliant establishments every time nga wala’y tax mapping,” Oliva said.

Tax mapping was conducted in area in the southern part of the city starting July 1.

As of June, 13,000 establishments have complied with requirements of the city with the number expected to go up to 17,000 by yearend.

Oliva said the ordinance that penalizes those who violate the closure order has strengthened the city’s resolve against delinquent businesses.

Those who will destroy the padlocks of establishments that the city will close will be held liable criminally.

“Naa’y penalty if naa’y moguba sa padlocks. Naa’y corresponding criminal violation,” Oliva said.

Recently, Mandaue also ordered the closure of Cebu City’s abattoir, which is located at the North Reclamation Area, for failure of Cebu City to settle its obligations with Mandaue. City treasurers from the two cities are expected to meet tomorrow, Monday, to discuss the matter. — /JMO (FREEMAN)