MARAWI CITY (PIA) — City Mayor Majul Gandamra announced that Marawi has achieved significant economic growth and development following the devastating Marawi Siege in 2017.
In his State of the City Address on August 19, Gandamra highlighted the administration’s efforts to create a favorable business environment and promote economic recovery.
One of the key initiatives undertaken by the city government was the simplification of the business registration process by reducing the number of required steps and enhancing transparency.
Implementing automated systems for tax collection and business permit issuance streamlined these processes, making them more efficient and less time-consuming and promoting compliance among businesses.
“These efforts resulted in robust economic growth, with the city achieving its highest growth rates. Tax revenue collections continued to increase, reaching a 511 percent tax increase,” Gandamra stated.
According to him, investor confidence has also soared, as evidenced by the increasing number of establishments setting up shops in Marawi. He said business investors for hotels, food chains, and franchises are actively submitting proposals, indicating a positive outlook for the city’s economic future.
Gandamra also highlighted that the city government’s focus on promoting tax payment and business registration has resulted in a significant increase in both business tax collections and real property tax collections.
“In 2023, the total tax collected was P37,118,039.07, and barely after six months, or in June 2024, tax collection already surpassed the total amount collected for the entire year of 2023 at P44,691,569.24,” he added.
The mayor said residents of Marawi in previous years neglected to register and pay their real property taxes. However, in the first semester of 2024, a total of 2,949 real property units have been registered and updated due to the massive tax campaign.
As a result of these accomplishments, Marawi City has consistently been recognized for its economic dynamism and government efficiency in various awards, including the City’s and Municipalities Competitive Index Awards and the Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping.
Gandamra emphasized that the city’s economic progress is not only a testament to the administration’s efforts but also a reflection of the growing awareness among residents of the importance of compliance with tax and permit requirements.
“One positive outcome of the siege is that people have realized that paying real property taxes and other mandatory taxes significantly contributes to the improvement of their city. Compliance with the declaration of land properties not only helps the City Government receive revenues for relevant programs but also helps the city’s people attain peace by avoiding disputes among landowners,” he added.
By contributing to the city’s revenue generation, Gandamra said citizens are helping to fund essential services and improve the overall quality of life in Marawi. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
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