ILOILO — Iloilo Province has emerged as one of the Philippines’ top-performing local governments in generating its own income.
The Department of Finance – Bureau of Local Government Finance ranked the province 10th nationwide in locally-sourced revenues for fiscal year 2024.
The distinction, announced during the Provincial Treasurer’s Office’s awarding ceremony on November 14, underscores Iloilo’s strengthened fiscal position as it collected P1.3 billion in locally-sourced revenues last year.
Provincial Treasurer Jean Maire Umadhay said the province’s strong performance reflects disciplined revenue management and an expanded local economic base, noting that 50 percent of the total income came from local economic enterprises, particularly the provincial and district hospitals.
These 13 healthcare facilities generated P656.8 million, making them the single largest contributor to locally sourced funds.
Real property tax (RPT) followed as the second biggest revenue source, raising P438.8 million.
“Real property tax is the biggest tax revenue of the province. Through diligent RPT compliance and innovative strategies, Iloilo has established itself as a leader in this area,” Umadhay said.
The ceremony honored municipalities, assessors, RPT focal persons, and treasurers who helped drive these gains.
Umadhay stressed that the event was not merely about awards but about recognizing shared progress.
“This awarding ceremony goes beyond the presentation of plaques and cash prizes. It is a celebration of our collective impact on local economic development and a reflection of our commitment to paving a better future for our communities,” she added.
Vice Gov. Lee Ann Debuque expressed gratitude to taxpayers whose compliance enabled provincial programs and infrastructure development.
Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul Banias also assured the public that revenues are managed prudently.
“You have no reason to worry, as under the leadership of Gov. Toto Defensor and Vice Gov. Lee Ann, we ensure that every peso is utilized effectively for the benefit of our constituents,” Banias said.
Awardees were recognized across multiple categories, including real property tax efficiency, prompt tax remittance, fiscal administration, year-on-year growth, fund utilization, and tax collection performance.
The provincial government said the recognition cements Iloilo’s trajectory toward stronger fiscal independence and sustainable development, driven by effective governance and taxpayers’ trust./PN
