As we faced a number of terrible natural disasters in the past years, from super­ typhoons to earthquakes and flash floods, we saw the bayanihan spint of every Fihpino eager to give their time and resources to suffering Filipino families.

Unfortunately, with the Philippines being considered one of the most affected by the effects of climate change, we must brace ourselves for much more calamities in the years t0 come as well as create systems that ensure quick and efficient recovery from such disasters.

One such system that needs to be reevaluated with an eye for victims of calamities is our tax system. As such, this measure seeks to relieve our countrymen affected by terrible distress of the burden of taxes to encourage a quicker recovery.

This bill safeguards donations to victims of calamities by allowing organizations exemption from donor’s tax provided that at least 90% of the donations go directly to the affected community and not administrative costs.

In addition, this bill mandates real estate tax exemption for affected communities for two years from declaration of a state of calamity.

Lastly, in support of our local entrepreneurs who provide for their families and generate jobs within their community through business, business establishments affected by a calamity shall be exempted from tax payments for a period of one year after the

calamity.

This measure adds to the various initiatives of government, civil society, and the private sector to strengthen our resilience to adversity and invigorate the spirit o bayanihan ingrained in the collective heart of Filipinos.

In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.