Computer technology helps improve tax collection in Lanao Norte

MANILA, Philippines - A German computer software technology is now helping five local government units (LGUs) including Lanao del Norte to collect taxes effectively.

Through the technology, the collection of taxes in Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur, Pagadian City, Oroqueta City, Tudela City, Dumaguete City and Lanao del Norte is expected to improve as it will process taxpayer payments, receipts, reports and even track the delinquent taxpayers with a mere click using the key pad.

This is the latest computer technology used in Europe and in some parts of Asia, said Juergen Seelman, German computer analyst and team leader of the GTZ-ITAX Management System.

He said the technology provides services according to the local ordinances in a comprehensive package involving the receipt of payments, generating receipts, reports and tracking the delinquent taxpayers.

“It gives invigorating inputs on the benefits of the system, Integrated Taxation (iTAX) history, procedures to implement the program and sustainability plan that will give better understanding on the advancement of the application in shaping the future with ease and stability,” Seelman said.

Last Aug 5, iTAX Management System conducted a conference at the Mindanao Civic Center Hotel with the participation of the representatives of the six local government units (LGUs) to know the operation of the technology and also sharing insights and experiences of its implementation in the collection of taxes of their areas.

Earlier, the iTAX Management System conducted a seminar like this one participated in by the LGUs in Northern Mindanao. This conference was to follow up and update if the technology works effectively in their respective areas.   

 “The province is weak on tax collection but through this tax system which is very transparent with no politics involved and only focus on the services for the people has helped standardize Lanao del Norte’s taxation,” said Lanao del Norte Gov. Khalid Quibranza Dimaporo.