Pacquiao may get Manila tax exemption

The Manila City council approved on second reading yesterday an ordinance granting Manny "The Pacman" Pacquiao’s request to exempt him from paying amusement taxes due the city for his July fight with Mexican boxer Oscar Larios.

Pacquiao’s company, MP Promotions, Inc., sponsored his bout with Larios, held at Araneta Coliseum. The fight was shown simulcast live in select shopping malls, including SM Manila.

Although the ordinance would still have to undergo publication and be open for opposition during the third and final reading, its proponent, First District Councilor Ernesto Dionisio said, "It is good as approved."

In a letter to the city government dated June 19, Pacquiao asked "for exemption for the payment of local amusement taxes with the proper offices. Note that part of the proceeds that will be derived by the MP Promotions from the event will be donated to charity."

Dionisio said the council was only able to take it up yesterday because of delays such as lack of quorum.

Second District Councilor Edward Ang, who is opposed to the exemption, said he wanted to know how MP Promotions would spend the money and if it was given to charity.

First District Councilor Isko Moreno suggested that they should require Pacquiao to make an accounting.

Dionisio argued that it was only fitting that the local council approved the request, emphasizing that Pacquiao was an "adopted son" of the city.

"Even the local governments of Quezon City and Pasay City gave him exemptions, why not Manila. He is a true-blooded Filipino, a Manileño who has brought honor to the country."