Six mining firms are facing possible closure if not able to settle their taxes and implement environmental and social protection within the year as the municipality of Eastern Samar has issued a warning of non-compliance, according to Provincial Treasurer Antonia Macawile.
In a report by CNN Philippines, the official cited data indicating that five of these mining companies owe unpaid real property taxes (RPT) amounting to ₱133.86 million, based on the aggregate volumes listed in their permits for transporting chromite and nickel ore stocks.
Governor Ben Evardone stressed that if these companies continue to be non-compliant, he may be compelled to take action, including requesting the cancellation of their Mineral Production Sharing Agreements (MPSAs).
Provincial Legal Officer Eden Ivy Rose Balagasay revealed that these companies have refused to pay RPT arrears, mentioning the excuse that paying these taxes to LGUs would result in a double payment of excise taxes to the national government (NG).
The companies are mandated to pay excise taxes to the NG for the chromite they extract from Homonhon Island, as well as to pay RPT to the host LGU based on guidelines from the Environment Department and provincial ordinances, she added.
The Eastern Samar LGU emphasized that unsettled taxes from these mining companies could significantly contribute to funding vital development projects, such as roads, school buildings, and water supply facilities for their citizens.
