MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is poised for significant progress as the proposed Bangsamoro Revenue Code moves forward. The code, championed by Deputy Speaker Paisalin Tago, promises to generate substantial revenue for the region, leading to improved public services, infrastructure development, and overall economic growth.
During a public hearing in Marawi City, Tago said the code seeks to aid the Bangsamoro people by expanding its financial resources, which, in turn, will support improved public services and development projects.
He said that the proposed code is not anti-people but for the people, noting that increased revenue generation will translate into more substantial investments in public services and infrastructure.
The proposed 289-page code is a comprehensive measure that aims to establish greater fiscal independence for the BARMM. It includes provisions for financial autonomy from the national government, optimization of regional resources, and innovation in tax collection.
If enacted, the Bangsamoro government will gain the authority to impose and collect various taxes, including income taxes, property taxes, and business and privilege taxes. It also allows the region to accept grants and donations from both domestic and international sources.
BARMM Deputy Chief Minister Ali Solaiman reiterated the need for taxes to fund government services. Taxes, according to Solaiman, are necessary to fund public education, which includes state colleges offering free tuition and to maintain infrastructure projects.
During the public consultation in Marawi City, stakeholders from Lanao del Sur also shared their recommendations on the bill.
Al-Hussein Macaraya, acting assistant provincial administrator, stressed the importance of implementing measures to increase taxpayer compliance and improve overall revenue collection.
Salih Manggis Sharif, secretary-general of Hayatu Ulama Muslim Scholars in the Philippines, suggested expanding Islamic financial definitions within Title V of the code. He said it would help constituents better understand Islamic terms in finance and banking.
Alim Saad Amate, grand imam and national president of the United Imams of the Philippines Foundations, Inc., proposed the inclusion of a new provision for zakat under Islamic finance, highlighting its potential for poverty alleviation in the region. (BTA/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
