NEWS
27September
Bangsamoro Parliament holds public consultation on revenue bill in SGA-BARMM
- Sep 27, 2024
- Taher G. Solaiman
- HITS: 221
The proposed code, which aims to provide a structured framework for local tax collection and resource management, is seen as crucial for the eight newly created municipalities with 63 barangays, all of which have faced a long history of conflict and instability.
Committee Chairperson Paisalin Tago emphasized that the revenue code will support rural development in the SGA, enhancing public services and improving livelihoods.
Residents expressed hope that the code would lead to improved infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Stakeholders also highlighted the importance of creating a fair tax structure that encourages compliance and supports local entrepreneurs.
However, concerns were raised regarding the possibility of increased tax burdens on low-income residents.
OIC Municipal Budget Officer Wafia Blah of Tugunan Municipality cautioned about the potential for a "culture shock" among residents due to sudden tax rate increases.
Tago assured stakeholders that the proposed code would not impose double taxation, clarifying that taxes are civic obligations.
The committee is also exploring the integration of Zakah principles from Islamic countries to ensure the revenue code aligns with the cultural values of the Bangsamoro people.
Under the proposed framework, Islamic Banking and Finance will be incorporated to enhance the competitiveness of Islamic financial products and services within BARMM.
Zaiton Abas, field office head of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) in SGA-BARMM, highlighted the importance of the proposed code in providing a foundation for crafting local revenue codes tailored to the unique challenges of newly established municipalities.
Once enacted, the code will establish a process for tax payment and collection, promoting economic development in rural areas.
Time in Cotabato
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