Manila lot owners told: Avail tax amnesty

Manila City residents with delinquent real property taxes can now avail of the city’s tax amnesty program, which covers interests and penalties.

This comes as Mayor Honey Lacuna encourages property owners to update their real property tax accounts at City Hall’s taxpayer’s lounge. This will allow them to benefit from the amnesty, which is valid for delinquent taxes up to 31 December 2024.

Republic Act 12001 and Manila Ordinance 9082 provide the legal framework for the tax amnesty program.

“The tax amnesty is now in effect. To avail of this, taxpayers must update their accounts by paying the delinquent taxes before December 31, 2024,” Lacuna said.

She also stressed the importance of timely tax payments, stating that it ensures the city has sufficient funds for social welfare, health and education programs.

“Updating and paying your real property taxes is easy and convenient. You can visit our taxpayer’s lounge or use the Go! Manila app for online transactions. It’s hassle-free and you can avoid long queues,” Lacuna said.

The lady mayor also highlighted the city’s commitment to modernizing its real property tax system and improving the valuation and assessment process.

She advised property owners to hold off on selling their properties until the city updates the Schedule of Market Values, as this could significantly increase their property’s value.

The implementing rules of Ordinance 9082 provide specific guidelines for the tax amnesty program, including eligibility criteria and penalties for late payments.