MANILA — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos has praised the Metro Manila Council (MMC) for its decision to implement a three-year moratorium on amusement taxes for Filipino films, describing it as a significant measure to rejuvenate the nation's film sector. The MMC's response comes as a welcome development to DILG's appeal aimed at supporting local filmmakers and encouraging the production of quality Filipino movies.
According to Philippines News Agency, the local government units (LGUs) within the National Capital Region (NCR) are set to amend their ordinances to align with the MMC's resolution. This resolution will exempt Filipino movies screened in Metro Manila from amusement tax from January 8 to December 24 for the next three years. The initiative aligns with Section 140 of the Local Government Code of 1991, which allows provinces to levy an amusement tax on the proprietors, lessees, or operators of theaters, cinemas, and other places of amusement.
Abalos highlighted the resolution as a crucial response to the local film industry's plea for support amidst challenging times, encouraging other LGUs across the Philippines to adopt similar measures. The hope is that the tax relief will not only benefit Metro Manila but will also be extended to other regions, fostering a nationwide upliftment of the Filipino film industry.
The push for the amusement tax moratorium was further emphasized in January when Abalos convened with leading movie producers and the Film Development Council of the Philippines Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Tirso Cruz III. The meeting focused on addressing the pressing concerns of local film producers and exploring ways to aid struggling Filipino movie producers through potential tax holidays.