• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
No immediate increase in real property taxes (RPT) in Negros Occidental.
This was clarified by Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II in response to the statement issued by the United Sugar Producers’ Federation (UNIFED) opposing a proposed increase in real property tax amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflict in the Middle East that contributed to economic uncertainties affecting both local and national economies.
The provincial government earlier issued an advisory reminding the public of the proposed schedule of market values for all real properties in compliance with Republic Act (RA) 12001 or the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act scheduled to be implemented this 2026.
Diaz explained that the reassessment of property values is mandated under RA 12001, a national measure aimed at modernizing and standardizing real property valuation across the country.
The law primarily seeks to establish a unified valuation system among agencies such as the Bureau of Internal Revenue, assessors, and treasurers’ offices to ensure consistency in tax computations and land transaction fees.
The reform also includes the creation of a centralized and digitalized real property database, replacing outdated systems.
This is expected to enhance revenue collection, reduce discrepancies, speed up processing, and minimize errors. Additionally, the law provides amnesty on interest, penalties, and surcharges for delinquent real property taxes.
Diaz said these efforts were carried out in coordination with city and municipal assessors to ensure that property values accurately reflect prevailing market conditions, even before the onset of the current fuel crisis.
Stressing that compliance with the law is mandatory, Diaz said “failure to implement its provisions may be considered neglect of duty on the part of government officials,” adding that that authorities are bound to follow the directive.
He reiterated that an immediate increase in taxes is unlikely as the province continues to deal with rising fuel costs and broader economic pressures.
“Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and other local chief executives also recognize the current economic challenges,” he added.
Diaz appealed for public understanding, stressing that the provincial government is fulfilling its legal mandate while ensuring safeguards are in place to protect taxpayers. | GB
