Tax IEC Open Forum in Barangay Lucena Addresses Taxpayers’ Concerns on RPT and Business Taxes

LUCENA, PROSPERIDAD, AGUSAN DEL SUR – August 11, 2026 – The Municipal Treasury Office (MTO) of the Municipality of Prosperidad conducted a Tax Information and Education Campaign (Tax IEC) in Barangay Lucena, providing residents, taxpayers, and business owners with an opportunity to better understand their responsibilities concerning Real Property Tax (RPT), business taxes, and other local revenue obligations.

One of the highlights of the activity was the Open Forum, where participants were encouraged to raise questions based on actual situations they encounter in their communities. The interactive discussion allowed the MTO team to provide practical explanations and clarify common concerns regarding local taxation.

Among the matters raised during the open forum was the payment of Real Property Tax covering previous and current years. Participants sought clarification on how taxpayers can settle their RPT obligations and the importance of keeping their real property tax payments updated.

Questions were also raised regarding business establishments that may no longer operate in the succeeding year. The discussion emphasized the importance of properly informing and coordinating with the concerned LGU offices regarding the closure or retirement of a business to ensure that its records and corresponding tax obligations are appropriately addressed.

Another concern involved the computation of Real Property Tax on agricultural land, particularly properties planted with crops such as coconut trees that have not yet reached their productive or fruit-bearing stage. This provided an opportunity to explain that RPT computation depends on the property’s official assessment and classification and that taxpayers may seek clarification from the concerned offices regarding the assessment of their properties.

The open forum likewise addressed questions from individuals engaged in daily or small-scale livelihood activities, including how they should pay the appropriate business taxes and secure the necessary permits when their income or sales are earned on a daily basis. Participants were advised on the importance of declaring their business activities accurately so the proper taxes, fees, and requirements can be determined in accordance with applicable local regulations.

Through the open forum, the Tax IEC became more than an information campaign—it served as a direct dialogue between the Municipal Treasury Office and the community, allowing taxpayers to openly discuss their concerns and receive clearer guidance on their obligations.

The Municipal Treasury Office continues to strengthen its tax information and education initiatives in the barangays to promote tax awareness, voluntary compliance, transparency, and responsible citizenship. By bringing tax information closer to the people, the MTO hopes to help taxpayers understand not only how and when to pay, but also the important role that local taxes play in financing programs, services, and development projects for the people of Prosperidad.

Through informed taxpayers and strengthened community participation, the Municipality of Prosperidad continues to work toward efficient revenue collection and a more progressive and prosperous community. see more…

DIO: Maria Corazon Almendras