BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has called on taxpayers to settle their 2025 real property taxes early to take advantage of generous discounts offered by the city government.
The city has extended the 40 percent discount on real property taxes for landowners and businesses until 2026.
In addition, taxpayers who make advance or prompt payments this December can enjoy an extra 10 percent discount on taxes for land, structures, and machinery.
“This is a great opportunity for taxpayers to save while avoiding the rush during the first quarter, particularly in January for business permit renewals and in March for real property tax deadlines,” said Treñas.
City Treasurer Jinny C. Hermano confirmed that revenue collectors would be available at the City Treasurer’s Office and four offsite payment centers throughout December, except on Christmas Day.
The city hall is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., including weekends, to receive payments.
Offsite payment centers at The Atrium and Mary Mart Mall are open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The one at Festive Walk Mall is also open on weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., while that at SM City Iloilo is open from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. also on weekdays.
Treñas recently announced the extension of the 40 percent discount on RPT for landowners and businesses for another two years, providing financial relief to taxpayers until 2026.
During a Zoom announcement on Tuesday, Treñas stated, “The Iloilo City Government is committed to fostering inclusive and responsive governance that prioritizes the welfare of our constituents. In line with this, I am pleased to announce that the 40% discount on Real Property Tax for land will be extended until 2026.”
Supporting taxpayers amid adjustments
The mayor explained that the extension aims to support property owners and taxpayers in adapting to revised RPT rates based on updated market values.
He noted the tax relief is part of the city government’s initiative to address the concerns of stakeholders while bolstering economic resilience.
“To formalize this extension, I am calling for an amendatory ordinance to be submitted to the City Council at the soonest possible time,” Treñas said.
Treñas also emphasized that this measure aligns with the city’s broader mission of creating a business-friendly environment and promoting sustainable growth in Iloilo City.
The mayor underscored that the tax incentives demonstrate Iloilo City’s commitment to easing the financial burden on its constituents and fostering long-term development.
The extension of the 40 percent RPT discount for land until 2026 highlighted a delicate balance between providing economic incentives and ensuring fiscal responsibility, according to Councilor Rex Marcus Sarabia, chair of the appropriations committee.
Sarabia acknowledged the significant financial relief the policy offers to businesses and property owners but cautioned that it could pose challenges to the city’s financial health in the long term.
“This move is very hard and would certainly hurt the city’s coffers in the long run,” Sarabia admitted.
Supporting economic stability
Despite the potential fiscal impact, Sarabia emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare and economic stability of the Ilonggo community.
“We are willing to give way so as not to compromise the economic growth and welfare of the Ilonggos. We will find a way,” he said.
Sarabia reassured the public that the city government remains committed to addressing fiscal challenges while fostering development and ensuring inclusive growth.
He added that the RPT discount extension aims to help property owners adapt to revised property tax rates based on updated market values while promoting a business-friendly environment./PN
