Treasurer: One Cebu exhibitors owe Mandaue

EXHIBITORS who used booths in the Cebu International Convention Center in Mandaue City need to pay the city government, an official said.

Mandaue City Treasurer Regal Oliva said the exhibitors who used stalls in the center must pay P110 per day for their us from Aug. 1 to Aug. 15 since they are generating income.

“We are just seeking equitable interest,” Regal said, adding that taxes are the lifeblood of the city’s economy.

The city’s revenue code provides for the imposition of fees and charges and issuance of a mayor’s permit to exhibitors, Oliva said.

“Mayor’s permit fees are collected from individuals and corporations for the issuance of a permit by the city mayor or his duly authorized deputy or assistant in connection with an application to operate a business … in the city of Mandaue,” Article 5 Section 32 of the code reads.

Even sidewalk vendors in the city are made to pay for tickets, Oliva pointed out.

Those responsible for any event held in the convention center that is open to the public and generates income, like concerts, must pay what’s due to the local government, Oliva said.

James Abadia, city administrator. told Cebu Daily News that he will wait for Oliva and Mayor Jonas Cortes to issue recommendations for action.