Manila declares tax amnesty program

July 31, 2019

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno on Wednesday signed an ordinance declaring a tax amnesty program in the city.

"A rising number of taxpayers affected by economic misfortune have experienced hardships in paying their basic taxes, fees and charges," the ordinance read.

"As a consequence, these unpaid impositions have incurred surcharge and interests, making it even more difficult for taxpayers to settle their obligations, " it added.

Under the Ordinance No. 8566, taxpayers who have failed to pay basic taxes will be granted an opportunity to have a "fresh start" through the general amnesty program.

Covered by the new ordinance are existing delinquent business taxes, real property taxes, regulatory fees and other service charges.

The general amnesty was among Moreno's platform and promises during his campaign for the 2019 national elections. The ordinance aims to be the current Manila government's solution for the growing tax-related issues suffered by the citizens.

"An effective response to the clamor of our constituencies for an immediate relief is in order to give stakeholders a fresh clean start with the assumption of a new administration," the ordinance said.

Moreno said the ordinance will allow the taxpayers to "correct (their) books."

"You can give up now. No one will check your books. It's the time to finally correct your books," he said. Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS