QC real property tax collection resumes

The local government of Quezon City disclosed on Tuesday that its City Treasurer’s Office is set to resume the collection of real property taxes this year after a five year break based on the 2017 schedule of fair market values of land.

According to City Treasurer Ed Villanueva, the agency will utilize the FMVs for various classes of real property as defined in Ordinance No. SP-2556, S-2016, which was passed in 2016 and was applied until 2017.

Villanueva explained that the “adjustment” is not a new hike but only reversion to the rate that was used five years ago before the temporary suspension from the Supreme Court in light of homeowners’ petition.

To recall, the Supreme Court in 2018 lifted its Temporary Restraining Order allowing the re-implementation of the updated schedule of FMVs. However, the city government decided to continue the suspension to ease the effects of the inflation due to the impact of the Tax Reform Acceleration and Inclusion law.

Meantime, the local government said that the reinstatement of the former rate will support its expansion of social services and the establishment of infrastructure facilities among its major goals.

The QC local government unit also said that it has lost P1 billion in National Tax Allotment due to the national government’s shortfall in tax collections amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Payment of taxes can be made through the City Treasurer’s Office at the City Hall, Payment Centers across the City, or online through the QC E-Services.

A 20 percent discount will be given to taxpayers who will settle their annual dues on or before 31 March 2023, while 10 percent for those who will pay via installment or on or before the end of each quarter.

Villanueva also said that delinquent taxpayers may face court action or placement of their property on the list of delinquent properties to be sold at public auction.

“Through the years, the unwavering support of our residents through their tax payments has enabled us to fund impactful programs. We look forward to the same support as we aim to build and rehabilitate vital public facilities such as footbridges, parks, schools, and hospitals, among others; and, of course, to fund the social services that we extend especially to the marginalized,” Villanueva said.