DAGUPAN CITY Mayor Belen Fernandez, asserting that the recent road elevation projects in the city successfully resolved long-standing flooding problems, vetoed an ordinance that would have given a 50% discount on the business permit of establishments affected during the construction phase.

In her veto, Fernandez cited the ordinance’s lack of clarity regarding the period during which the discount would be applicable as well as a discrepancy in terminologies used, particularly business permit and business tax, in different sections.

These ambiguities could lead to legal and procedural issues that would undermine its intended purpose, she said.

Ordinance No. 2286-2024 was authored by the seven members of the majority bloc in the Sangguniang Panlungsod — Councilors Redford Erfe-Mejia, Librada Reyna, Alvin Coquia, Marilou Fernandez, Alipio Serafin Fernandez, Celia Lim and Victoria Czarinna Lim-Acosta.

The mayor also emphasized that the road elevation and drainage projects undertaken by the DPWH have long-term benefits for the business sector and the city.

“While we understand the challenges faced by our businessmen, it is important to consider that offering such discounts could significantly impact the city’s income,” Fernandez said, adding that her administration will explore alternative measures to assist affected businesses without compromising the city’s overall budget and delivery of public services. (Leonardo Micua) 

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