Farmers get tax discount for organic farming

CEBU, Philippines - Farmers who devote their properties to organic farming will get a consolation from the provincial government – a 10 percent real property tax discount.

This after the Provincial Board approved on final reading an ordinance granting the said discount to agricultural lot or farm owners who solely, exclusively and directly devote their properties to organic farming or agriculture.

The purpose of the ordinance, which was sponsored by PB member Arleigh Sitoy, is “to build on local agriculture and consequently spur province-wide economic development through the promotion of organic agriculture.”

Section 3 of the ordinance states that “a lot or farm owner who makes use of the total portion of an agricultural land registered in his name solely, exclusively and directly for organic agricultural activities can avail the incentive offered under this ordinance.”

The ordinance covers the areas where buildings are constructed as storehouse for the farm, as long as the lot is certified as an organic farm and accredited by the body endorsed by the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 7.

Farm owners who have no record of any misconduct are the ones qualified for the discount.

Any certifying body accredited by the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards, which could state that the land has been devoted to organic farming, is applicable.

The ordinance aims to implement the provisions of the Republic Act No. 10068 or the “Organic Agriculture Act of 2010” which is aligned with the development and practice of organic culture at the grassroots level. – (FREEMAN)