Free shipping of relief goods bill hurdles second reading

THE House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading a measure seeking to provide free freight services of relief goods to disaster-stricken areas, a proposal seen expediting the delivery of basic goods during times of calamity.

In a voice vote, congressmen approved House Bill (HB) No. 10924, which allows the government to partner with private logistics companies, including carriers and freight forwarders, for the quick delivery and distribution of goods to areas declared to be under a state of calamity.

“This measure aims to provide tax incentives to private and common carriers and provides for a systematic way of delivering goods,” San Jose Del Monte City Rep. Florida P. Robes said during her sponsorship speech of the measure before the House plenary.

The bill provides private logistics companies with a 100% tax deduction on gross income based on the amount of expenses incurred throughout their freight services.

Meanwhile, lawmakers also approved a bill mandating government agencies and companies to establish an employment program for senior citizens, which the bill’s authors see as promoting the employability of the elderly.

The bill would also provide a 25% tax deduction for companies that hire senior citizens.

“The bill proposes incentives for private entities that intentionally employ senior citizens, [which] would include an additional deduction from their gross income equivalent to 25%,” Party-list Rep. Rodolfo M. Ordanes, who sponsored the bill, told the House floor. — Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio