MINDORO, Philippines — Homeowners, farmers, and business owners in Oriental Mindoro may face higher taxes starting in 2026 following the provincial government’s proposed new Schedule of Market Values (SMV) for land and structures across the province. The SMV serves as the official benchmark used to calculate real property tax, transfer tax, estate tax, and other related fees.

Under the proposal, the assessed value of residential, commercial, and agricultural lands—particularly in Cluster 1 towns such as Pinamalayan, Naujan, Bongabong, Roxas, and Puerto Galera—is set to increase significantly. Residential lots that were previously valued at just a few hundred pesos per square meter could now be assessed in the thousands, meaning annual property taxes may rise even if no improvements have been made to the property.

The agricultural sector is expected to feel the impact the most. Proposed valuations for irrigated and unirrigated rice fields, coconut, banana, mango, lanzones, rambutan, and multi-crop lands could translate into heavier tax burdens for smallholder farmers who rely on fluctuating crop yields. Business owners, from small stores to resorts, warehouses, and gas stations, may also see higher costs due to the revaluation of commercial and industrial properties.

While the proposal has sparked concerns among landowners, the provincial government has clarified that it is still in draft form. It will undergo public consultations, hearings, and discussions in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, with possible revisions before final implementation. Authorities are encouraging residents, farmers, and business owners to actively participate in these consultations to voice their feedback.

This proposed change raises a deeper question about balancing local revenue generation with economic sustainability: Should property valuations reflect market trends even if they risk overburdening ordinary homeowners and farmers? (Larawan mula sa: Wikipedia)