Screengrab from https://www.valenzuela.gov.ph website
MANILA, Philippines — Valenzuela City residents and business owners need not worry about bringing large amounts of cash with them when they settle their tax obligations at city hall.
The Valenzuela City government has launched its online and credit card payment facilities — operated by the Development Bank of the Philippines — which let taxpayers choose how to pay their dues, whether online or through credit cards.
In a statement, the city government claimed that it was the first local government unit in Metro Manila to accept payment for selected taxes and fees online and through debit, credit or prepaid cards issued by Visa.
Under the scheme, payments for business license fees, real property tax, and engineering permits can now be made online through the city government’s website, www.valenzuela.gov.ph.
Users only need to register online for free, specify their properties for which they will pay real property tax, and then pay their dues.
If the clients prefer to transact business at City Hall, they can no longer bring cash with them, but instead pay with a swipe of their credit, debit, or prepaid card.
Valenzuela Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian said that the service could better enhance the city government’s pledge for simple, speedy and excellent services.
“This is a new milestone toward our ultimate goal of global competitiveness and world-class excellence,” he said in the statement.
DBP Valenzuela Manager Lea Remolano said that they chose Valenzuela for the project because of these values.
“We have chosen Valenzuela City for this project because this LGU is known for its innovative stance and thrust on computer integration,” he said.