The United Sugar Producers’ Federation of the Philippines (UNIFED) on Thursday, April 9, said it is strongly opposing the proposed increase in real property tax in Negros Occidental.
“Any increase at the moment is going to be counterproductive and will do more harm to an already suffering nation,” UNIFED said.
UNIFED, in a board resolution, urged provincial government officials to reconsider and defer any such increase until economic conditions stabilize and the financial capacity of their constituents improves.
The resolution was issued after the provincial government of Negros Occidental issued an advisory reminding the public of the Proposed Schedule of Market Values (SMV) for all real properties in compliance with Republic Act No. 12001, or the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act, scheduled to be implemented in 2026.
The SMV is used to compute real property tax, capital gains tax, and other documentary stamp taxes used by the Bureau of Internal Revenue, UNIFED said.
UNIFED said “imposing an increase in real property tax under present conditions is untimely and may adversely affect economic recovery and the overall welfare of the people.”
The Board said while they recognize the vital role of taxation in supporting government programs, infrastructure, and public services, any increase at this time will impose an additional financial burden on property owners, including homeowners, farmers, and business operators.
“Many constituents have yet to recover from economic challenges and are struggling to meet their daily needs,” the UNIFED resolution said.
This has been exacerbated by the current global situation, including ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflict in the Middle East, which have contributed to economic uncertainties affecting both local and national economies, it added.
The rising fuel prices have led to increased transportation and production costs that have significantly affected the prices of goods and services, it pointed out.
The resolution was signed by UNIFED Chairman Manuel Lamata and the Board of Directors composed of Exequiel Marañon, Adnan Buenafe, Claude Schulze, Zosimo Dianongco Jr., Ricardo Yulo, Joseph Edgar Sarrosa, Bonifacio Peña, Jose Nadie Arceo, Miguel Yusay, Edgardo Acuña, and Anthony Ramos.*
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