TACLOBAN CITY – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Leyte has begun deliberations on an ordinance that seeks to institutionalize the integrated real property taxation system, known as the iTax system, within the province.
The proposed ordinance, titled “An Ordinance Institutionalizing the Implementation of the Integrated Real Property Taxation System (iTax System) in the Province of Leyte” was discussed during the regular session of the provincial board last Jan.14.
Board Member Wilson Uy explained that the iTax system aims to modernize and streamline real property tax (RPT) administration, improving efficiency and transparency in assessment and collection.
“This system minimizes human intervention, enhances revenue collection, and makes the RPT process more efficient and accessible,” Uy said during the session presided over by Vice-Governor Leonardo “Sandy” Javier.
The iTax system features a user-friendly interface for online assessment, billing, and payment. Taxpayers, particularly those in remote areas, can benefit from online payment platforms such as GCash, PayMaya, debit and credit cards, online bank transfers, and other accredited portals.
The initiative aligns with the national government’s digitalization efforts and the transparency mandate of the Department of Finance and the Bureau of Local Government Finance.
During the same session, the provincial board approved other key appointments and endorsements:
The reappointment of Atty. Jose Raymund Acol as provincial legal office chief, upon the endorsement of Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla and the endorsement of former Alangalang Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president Jan Reian Niño Saavedra as Commissioner for the Visayas in the National Youth Commission.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
