Senator Wants VAT Removed From Power Rates

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Senate Majority Leader Francis “Tol” Tolentino said he will work to remove the value-added tax on electricity costs if re-elected.

Tolentino, along with other senatorial candidates from the administration-backed Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas, arrived in Bacolod on Friday for a press conference and a political rally in Victorias City.

He said eliminating VAT on electricity will lower power rates and benefit consumers.

Tolentino acknowledged widespread complaints about high electricity costs.

As one of the co-authors of the Negros Island Region law, he said he is committed to supporting the newly created region.

He pledged to strengthen the Negros Island Region, which includes Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

Tolentino said he will push to amend Sections 108 and 109 of the National Internal Revenue Code to lower electricity costs.

He also vowed to give more attention to Siquijor to ensure it is not left behind by Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.

Meanwhile, former Sen. Manny Pacquiao said that if re-elected, he will push for free housing for the homeless, particularly in the newly created Negros Island Region.