SC issues TRO vs property tax hike in QC

MANILA, Philippines – The Supreme Court on Tuesday, April 18, issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the implementation of a Quezon City government ordinance imposing a hefty increase in real property taxes this year.

SC spokesman Theodore Te said in a press briefing in Baguio City that the magistrates issued the TRO, “effective immediately,” during their regular en banc session that day.

The High Court acted on the petition of the Alliance of Quezon City Homeowners’ Association Incorporated (AQCHI), seeking temporary relief from the implementation of Quezon City Ordinance No. 2256 (Series of 2016).

In its petition, AQCHI argued that the new rates are “unjust and excessive” and will unduly burden landowners in Quezon City.

The ordinance approved the fair market value of lands and basic unit construction costs for buildings and other structures, for revising real property assessment in the city.

The new ordinance increases the existing fair market value from 100% to 500% percent, effective 2017 for land, and 2018 for buildings and other structures.

While the petitioner acknowledged the need to increase property valuation in the city, it is calling for smaller or staggered increases.

AQCHI named Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, the Quezon City Assessor’s Office, and the city’s treasurer’s office as respondents in the petition.

The Court directed the respondents to comment on the petition within 10 days from notice.

The Quezon City government earlier said it expects the increase in real property taxes to generate P700 million in additional collections for the city in the first year of implementation. – Rappler.com