Marikina gives discount to early taxpayers

MANILA, Philippines - Residents of Marikina City will get a 50 percent reduction on real property tax if they pay their taxes early, the local government said yesterday.

Residents can avail themselves of the discount if they pay their taxes from Jan. 1 to March 31 this year.

The city government had passed an ordinance giving residents relief on real property tax in the aftermath of Typhoon Ondoy in 2009.

“They can also enjoy a free cup of coffee and reading materials while our personnel are processing their transactions,” Mayor Del de Guzman said.

Taxpayers are also entitled to a free carwash at the parking lot beside Freedom Park.

Meanwhile, the streets of Marikina were clutter- free during the long holiday break.

Vice Mayor Jose Fabian Cadiz lauded the personnel of the city’s environment and management office under Gloria Buenaventura for doing their job even during the holidays.