Porac Mayor Denies Double Taxation Allegations Amid Quarry Shutdown
Porac Mayor Jaime "Jing" Capil has publicly denied allegations of double taxation concerning the fees imposed by the municipal government on local quarry operations. This statement was issued on Monday, November 24, following a voluntary halt in operations by haulers and quarry operators in the town.
Mayor Defends Current Collection System
Mayor Capil, who assumed office on July 1, emphasized that he has only been in his position for almost five months. He explained that the current collection system was already in place when he started his term and that his administration has simply continued it. "I just assumed office last July 1. Almost five months pa lang ako. Dinatnan na lang natin ang collection system at atin lang tinuloy," Capil stated through local media.
He firmly asserted that the quarry operations in Porac are in order and directly refuted the claims made by the Association of Porac Sand and Gravel Quarry Operators Inc.. The mayor clarified that the municipal government has not issued any order to cease quarry activities, placing the responsibility for the shutdown squarely on the operators themselves. "Sila po ang kusang loob na nag-stop ng operation. Ang mga quarry operators ang kusang nagsara base sa pinalabas nilang statement," Capil added, noting that based on municipal records, almost all quarries were still operating.
Quarry Operators Cite Pressure and Excessive Fees
In contrast to the mayor's statements, the Association of Porac Sand and Gravel Quarry Operators Inc. announced in a November 21 statement that its members had voluntarily shut down their operations. The group cited "pressure, excessive taxation, and inconsistent municipal processes" under the current administration as the primary reasons for their decision.
The association specifically pointed to the "continued pressure from the local executive, particularly in the release of municipal clearances needed to legally continue operations." This claim, however, was met with skepticism from Mayor Capil, who stated, "We did not receive any letter of complaint. Kaya alam namin na maganda ang takbo ng operasyon."
Ordinance Changes Under Deliberation
Addressing the core issue of double taxation, Mayor Capil dismissed it as unfounded. He revealed that any potential changes to the regulatory fees are currently being deliberated by the Sangguniang Bayan of Porac. To avoid disrupting businesses, especially in the quarry sector, during these deliberations, a status quo is being maintained. "In hearing pa po ang aming mga ordinance. Para walang maabala na negosyo lalo na sa quarry habang dinidinig ito, status quo muna," the mayor concluded.
