Legarda's Heritage Incentives Bill Aims to Preserve Philippine History Through Financial Support
In a significant move to safeguard the nation's architectural legacy, Senator Loren Legarda has introduced Senate Bill 1852, known as the "Heritage Incentives" act. This proposed legislation seeks to make the preservation of historic buildings and ancestral houses more affordable for private owners, addressing the critical issue of financial strain that often leads to the deterioration of these cultural treasures.
Financial Assistance for Heritage Property Owners
The bill emphasizes that protecting history should involve practical support rather than mere regulations. To facilitate restoration efforts, it offers a comprehensive package of financial incentives designed to alleviate the burden on owners. Key provisions include tax credits for those involved in transferring ownership or restoring "Grade I" and "Grade II" structures, as well as tax exemptions on real property taxes for these historic sites. Additionally, eligible conservation work would benefit from exemptions on income tax, import duties, and value-added tax (VAT), providing substantial business savings.
Qualification Criteria for Historic Sites
To determine eligibility for these benefits, the bill categorizes historic sites into three distinct levels:
- Grade I: This top tier encompasses World Heritage Sites, national shrines, and historical monuments, representing the most significant cultural assets.
- Grade II: This group includes heritage houses, historic Gabaldon school buildings, and other important cultural properties that hold substantial historical value.
- Grade III: Local governments are empowered to extend tax breaks to additional local landmarks and natural sites listed in the Philippine Registry of Heritage, allowing for broader preservation efforts.
The Urgency of Preservation in Modern Times
In a statement released on Monday, February 23, 2026, Senator Legarda highlighted the profound importance of these old buildings as the "collective memory" of the Filipino people. She pointed out that many heritage structures are lost not due to neglect but because upkeep costs are prohibitively high. By easing the tax and financial burdens on owners who adhere to conservation standards, the bill aims to make restoration projects feasible and sustainable.
Expanding Support Through a Cultural Property Incentive Program
Beyond the tax incentives, the legislation establishes a Cultural Property Incentive Program. This initiative will provide owners with access to government grants and specialized loans, further assisting with the high expenses associated with repairs and maintenance. By making it financially viable for private citizens to care for their historic properties, the government hopes to ensure that the country's rich history is preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
