10/07/2010 [ tribune.net.ph ]
The city government of Makati, through City Ordinance 2010-A-010, has granted tax amnesty to business establishments affected by the gasoline leak at the West Tower Condominium in Barangay Bangkal.
Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. suggested the move for the consideration of the city council during a meeting of the Task Force West Tower at the Makati City Hall.
“We know that business owners in the building were adversely affected due to its closure and we believe that they rightfully deserve to receive help from the city government, including tax amnesty,” Binay said.
Last July 22, Binay, upon the recommendation of the City Disaster Coordinating Council, ordered the full evacuation of the West Tower Condominium to give way to the draining operation of the basement of the building following the discovery of the gasoline leak.
The seepage of waste water with petroleum product has persisted since it was discovered over two months ago at the basement of the building which is located on South Superhighway corner Del Pilar and Garcia streets, Barangay Bangkal.
Meanwhile, recent reports to the barangay and city governments indicated the leak was not confined to the West Tower building, but has affected surrounding areas as well, particularly deep wells.
“This alarming incident concerns the entire community, that is why we have formed Task Force West Tower, which involves local and national government agencies, as well as private institutions, to help give resolution to the problem at the soonest time possible,” Binay said.
“However, the occurrence affected not only the residents, but business establishments as well. So it is just fitting that they be given tax amnesty. After all, they have also contributed to the growth of our city through the taxes they used to pay. This time, they are the ones who need help from the city government, and we are willing to give them that,” the mayor said.
Previously, an ordinance was also approved declaring Barangay Bangkal in a state of calamity for the city to be able to provide funding for tests, equipment and other expenses while it tries to resolve the case.
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