Tax exemption request for concert faces Council scrutiny

THE 21st City Council, during its regular session on Monday, presided over by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, tabled the proposed ordinance seeking to exempt Win2 Corporation and 90dB Productions from paying amusement tax for the upcoming concert, “Ben&Ben Live in CDO”, scheduled on September 20, 2025, at the Atrium of Limketkai Mall.

Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez expressed concern that granting the exemption could set a precedent for similar requests in future events featuring national performers. He noted that with ticket prices ranging from ₱600 to ₱5,500, the concert is expected to generate ₱2.17 million in revenues, and thus, the city stands to lose much-needed income if exempted.

For her part, Councilor Imee Rose P. Moreno lauded the organizers’ efforts but underscored that the welfare of the city must come first. She cautioned that approving the exemption would make it difficult for the Council to deny future requests, as “what law applies to one, must apply to all.”

Meanwhile, Councilor Agapito Suan also opposed the exemption, citing the absence of documents and hearings, and stressed that only non-profit, cultural, educational, or fiesta-related events qualify. He added that the city’s 5 percent amusement tax is already the lowest compared to the 30 percent allowed under the Local Government Code.

Councilor Yevonna Yacine B. Emano called for transparency and suggested that instead of a full exemption, the city could consider a discount of 20 to 25 percent to ensure revenues are still secured for public welfare.

Majority Floor Leader Councilor Edgar S. Cabanlas, chair of the Committee on Laws and Rules, defended the 5 percent amusement tax imposed on the concert, stressing that it is already a fair rate compared to the original 30 percent.

“Arun dili ma-alkansi ang syudad, we (the previous City Council) agreed to reduce the 30% (amusement tax) to 5% para wala’y mahay ug wala nay hangyo. Insakto na ang 5%. Whether they will donate or not, basta 5% ang [sa syudad],” Cabanlas explained after the proposed exemption was met with questions from several members of the 21st City Council.

Vice Mayor Rodriguez likewise emphasized the importance of subjecting such proposals to proper committee hearings to ensure that the city receives its equitable share from large-scale events.

The City Council eventually tabled the resolution and directed the City Treasurer to collect the amusement tax, affirming that no committee meeting will be convened for the purpose. (FDC, JAO, JBD/SP)