Foundation’s request for exemption sparks SP ‘squabble’
The committee on ways and means of the Sangguniang Panglungsod has yet to decide on whether to grant or deny the request of the Graciano Lopez Jaena Foundation for an exemption in amusement tax.
In last Wednesday’s regular session, the committee on ways and means chaired by Councilor Antonio Pesina only made a progress report on the request. No definite recommendation was rendered by the chairman.
Pesina said he wanted to conduct a committee hearing first before coming up with a recommendation exempting the foundation from paying the amusement tax. He said it is his prerogative on what to do with the requests forwarded to his committee.
On his part Majority Floor Leader Eduardo Peñaredondo said the committee on ways and means could easily decide on whether the Graciano Lopez Jaena Foundation is entitled for an exemption on amusement tax. It does not need two weeks for the committee to come up with a decision, he said.
“It is unfriendly for him” to keep the request hanging, Peñaredondo added. He said during the time of Councilor Perla Zulueta as committee chair foundations requesting for exemption on amusement tax are accommodated provided they are qualified and has met the requirements.
Peñaredondo said the committee could determine whether the foundation meets the requirements by mere looking at the provisions of the Local Government Code which deals on taxes.
Graciano Lopez Jaena Foundation led by former Vice Governor Demy Sonza will do a charitable show which focuses on the promotion of cultural values.
Meanwhile, during the same session, both Pesina and Peñaredondo traded barbs not because of the issue on whether to grant or deny the application of the foundation for the tax exemption but on name calling. During the session, Peñaredondo addressed Pesina as Councilor Tony Boy Pesina.
Apparently irked, Pesina fought back by addressing the majority floor leader as Majority Floor Leader Eduardo “Kalbo” Peñaredondo. One councilor has to call for a recess to stop their exchanges during the session where there were college students taking up political science observing the session.