Iloilo City: The city government here is projected to have more than PHP4.2 billion budget in 2025, a 14.83 percent hike from this year’s allocation of PHP3.6 billion. The Sanggguniang Panlungsod approved the proposed budget consisting of PHP4.13 billion for the executive budget and PHP81.95 million for the special account of the Local Economic Enterprise Office during its regular session on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the budget hike is due to the ‘sharp increase in the National Tax Allotment (NTA),’ as reported by the Committee on Appropriations chaired by Councilor Rex Marcus Sarabia. The report notes that the increase in the NTA has come at a crucial time, especially given the reduced expectation of increase from local sources, such as the significant reduction in real property taxes. From this year’s PHP1.45 billion, the NTA is projected to increase to PHP1.71 billion in 2025.

A significant portion of the 2025 budget, or 48 percent, will be allocated for general services, which inc
lude planning, financial administrative, legal, and legislative services. Additionally, 25 percent will be directed towards social services, 15 percent for economic services, and the remaining 12 percent for other services.

In a statement on Thursday, Mayor Jerry Treñas highlighted the importance of this decision, stating that it reflects the dedication and collaboration of the City Council and all stakeholders in addressing the needs of the Ilonggos. With this early approval, the city can proceed with early procurement processes, ensuring that projects and programs slated for 2025 commence on time and deliver timely services to the public. This proactive approach, he added, allows the city to avoid delays, enhance efficiency, and maximize the impact of government spending for the benefit of constituents.