Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 5448)
The Special Science Fund is created to promote scientific and technological research and development, foster invention, and utilize scientific knowledge as an effective instrument for the promotion of national progress.
The National Science Development Board, Philippine Atomic Energy Commission, National Institute of Science and Technology, Philippine Coconut Research Institute, Philippine Inventors Commission, National Research Council of the Philippines, Science Foundation of the Philippines, relevant colleges and units of the University of the Philippines, and bureaus of the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources involved in scientific research.
Expenditure of the Fund shall be pursuant to appropriations made by law and included in the annual General Appropriations Act after the initial period, ensuring congressional oversight.
The rates are: P35.00 for 1,000 kilos or less; P100.00 for 1,001 to 1,500 kilos; P250.00 for 1,501 to 2,000 kilos; and P450.00 for 2,001 kilos and above.
A fixed additional tax of P15.00 for motorcycles and scooters, and P30.00 for jeeps.
Science stamp taxes equal to 100% of existing documentary stamp taxes, with additional fixed rates on tax clearance certificates: P50 on first-class, P30 on second or tourist-class, and P5 on third-class or steerage passengers.
The Commissioner of Internal Revenue and the Commissioner of the Land Transportation Commission must turn over collections monthly to the Treasurer of the Philippines.
No. Collections form part of the Special Science Fund and cannot be transferred, diverted, used, or expended for any purpose other than those specified.
A fine up to P10,000 or imprisonment up to six years, or both. Government officials may also be dismissed and disqualified from public office, and aliens deported.
The Act took effect on January 1, 1969, and the Special Science Fund lasts for five years, after which the taxes shall accrue to the General Fund unless otherwise provided by law.