By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has thrown its full support behind a pending bill in Congress that seeks to reduce the value-added tax (VAT) from 12 percent to 10 percent, saying the measure would help struggling households cope with rising costs of living.

In a unanimous vote, the council approved a resolution backing House Bill No. 4302, which proposes the two-percent VAT cut as a form of immediate financial relief for Filipino families.

Councilor Caesar Distrito, who authored the resolution, said Bacolodnons are among millions of consumers nationwide weighed down by one of the highest VAT rates in Southeast Asia.

“At 12 percent, we are higher than our neighbors — seven percent in Thailand and Malaysia, and eight percent in Singapore. The current system disproportionately affects ordinary wage earners and low-income families,” Distrito stressed.

The resolution argues that lowering VAT would increase household purchasing power, stimulate consumer spending, and boost local businesses, ultimately fueling a more inclusive economy.

City officials said Bacolod residents stand to benefit directly, with lower VAT translating to more affordable goods and services and better household savings.

The council’s resolution will be formally sent to the House of Representatives as a show of Bacolod’s “unwavering support” for the proposed reform.

“This is a call for tax reform that puts people first. By easing the burden on consumers, we not only help families recover faster but also strengthen the foundation for long-term growth,” Distrito said./CJ, WDJ