Tuba seeks share from cement firm operations
THE MUNICIPALITY of Tuba, Benguet is urging Northern Cement Corporation to pay taxes in the town following the mineral extraction at Sitio Sanguitlang.
Although NNC is operating in Pangasinan province, Tuba officials has sought a meeting with company officials to shed light on the issue.
NCC vice president and general manager Oliver Gorrospe who failed to attend the meeting of Provincial Board expressed his apologies and sent a letter.
"Our records show that all of NCC's operations are within Sison, Pangasinan. You have to inform us of the relevant approval dates of the Cadastral Maps of Tuba, Benguet and Sision, Pangasinan, and it's supposed impact on the ongoing border discussions between two provinces," Gorrospe's letter states
"Should this notification affirm Tuba's jurisdiction in some areas of NCC's operations, we will immediately comply with the regulations regarding the payment of fees," Gorospe added.
Philippine Councilors League - Benguet president and board member Nestor Fongwan Jr. , who chairs the committee on land use said the provincial board will further discuss matters with the officials of Tuba to shed light regarding the issue.
"NCC now is talking to us, they are saying they are acknowledging the fact that part of their operation is within the territorial jurisdiction of the Province of Benguet. Otherwise they would not coordinate with us, deep in their hearts and mind they know," Fongwan said.
The board specified under the Republic Act 7160 Section 289, it clearly states LGUs must receive 40 percent share of the gross collection derived from taxes, royalties and other fees.