Marikina grants sari-sari stores, carinderias tax relief

Marikina Mayor Maan Teodoro signed a series of ordinances Monday granting full tax relief to small businesses and offering a 100 percent amnesty on penalties for delinquent real property taxpayers.

The measures, approved 19 January, exempt sari-sari stores and carinderias from paying business taxes, permit fees and other local regulatory charges throughout 2026.

The exemption applies specifically to establishments that do not sell alcohol or cigarettes, as the city aims to support micro-enterprises that provide for daily household needs.

“Marikina is a business-friendly city,” Teodoro said. “We will ensure our policies uplift local industries, foster economic resilience, and protect the welfare of our citizens.”

Qualified store owners will receive certificates of exemption from the city’s Business Permits and Licensing Office.

In addition to the small-business relief, the city government approved a total amnesty on interests and surcharges for delinquent real property taxes.

The amnesty will run until July 2026, allowing taxpayers to settle outstanding balances either in full or through staggered payments.