By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Talisay City Mayor Neil Lizares III yesterday revealed the city government is pushing for the collection of an amusement tax on two major tourist destinations in the city.

“That is why the local amusement ordinance is under review by the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Talisay City,” Lizares said.

This was revealed during an interview with Lizares after a courtesy call by Negros Press Club officers, led by Renato “Aksyon Boy” Duran.

Lizares said both the Campuestohan Highland Resort and the Ruins are only paying the business renewal tax.

He said, based on data they gathered, the city government can generate at least P15 million a year from each establishments if 10 percent of the entrance fee they charge can be collected as amusement tax.

Lizares hopes they can start the collection this year.

The mayor said that it was the executive department that requested the city council to review the local amusement tax ordinance.

He said the amount, if collected from both establishments, can do a lot in the delivery of basic services.

Meanwhile, Lizares said the city government has already exceeded its Real Property Tax collection target for the first quarter; adding, he hopes collections reach P100 million by the end of the year./DGB, WDJ