Landowners to sue capitol on tax hike
PROVINCIAL EXECS TO DISCUSS OPTIONS
LINGAYEN–Farmers and landowners are preparing to go to the Supreme Court to question the legality of the provincial ordinance that increased property taxes by more than 300 percent effective this year.
In light of this, provincial officials are set to have an executive-legislative meeting this week to discuss possible options that could be adopted to appease angry taxpayers and avoid a protacted legal conflict on the issue.
Sixth District Board Member Ranjit Ramos Shahani is putting forward what he called “a series of mitigating measures to pre-empt the wrath of the people against the real property tax increase”, which he said the people deem “oppressive” and “confiscatory”.
The farmers and landowners, led by Abono party-list founding chairman Rosendo So, have began consulting with lawyers on the possibility of taking the case before the Supreme Court and getting a restraining order.
Shahani said the Sangguniang Panlalawigan members will consult Governor Amado Espino Jr. on what steps could be taken to arrive at a “win-win” solution.
He said officials will discuss whether the province will fully implement the increase now or have a staggered hike, starting from 50 percent, then 75 per cent and eventually 100 percent over a period of three years.
Other mitigating measures proposed by the board include giving tax amnesty.
Board Member Mojamito Libunao has suggested a review of the approved ordinance. Other board members could not be reached at presstime for their respective views.
Shahani said the provincial board needs to take action on the matter now because a restraining order issued by the High Court will prevent the province from collecting taxes.
“So, it is better that we tackle this issue now and not when the matter is already under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. Mamaya matalo pa ang probinsiya at lalabas ang injunction,” Shahani said.–LM
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