ILOILO – Iloilo Province has emerged as one of the country’s top-performing local governments in revenue generation, ranking 10th among 82 provinces nationwide with a total of P1.3 billion in locally sourced income for 2024, according to the Department of Finance’s Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF).
The province’s achievement shows its fiscal discipline and efficient local tax administration under the leadership of Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., whose “MoRProGRes Iloilo” agenda continues to emphasize strong governance and self-sustaining economic growth.
“This recognition reflects the collective commitment of Iloilo to maintain excellent fiscal performance and responsible local governance,” Defensor said, as he accepted multiple awards from the BLGF during the 2025 Conference of Assessors, Treasurers, and Technical Personnel held on October 8 at the Grand Hotel in Iloilo City.
Top Performer in Revenue Efficiency
The province bagged first place for Highest Collection Efficiency in Four Locally Sourced Revenues, posting an impressive 102% efficiency rate across all income streams.
It also led in Real Property Tax (RPT) collection, recording P438.58 million with a 106% collection efficiency, earning Iloilo the top spot in this category.
Treasury Office Recognized for Strong Fiscal Management
The Office of the Provincial Treasurer likewise took home several major citations, including first place for Highest Locally Sourced Revenue in Business Tax and Other Taxes with P99.17 million collected.
It also secured second place awards for Timely Submission of Treasury Reports (eSRE), Best Performing Provincial Approver and Reviewer of eSRE Reports, and Highest Revenue in Economic Enterprise with P656.83 million, posting a 100% efficiency rate and 17% year-on-year growth.
Assessor’s Office Delivers Record Gains
The Office of the Provincial Assessor was also recognized with first place awards for Highest Increase in Taxable Assessed Value and Highest Increase in Real Property Units, signalling expanding investment and property development in the province.
Fiscal Gains Reflect Growing Local Economy
The string of awards was formally presented to Governor Defensor during the provincial flag ceremony on October 20, celebrating Iloilo’s ascent as a fiscal powerhouse in Western Visayas and across the Philippines.
Defensor vowed to sustain the momentum, noting that continued fiscal excellence would pave the way for more inclusive progress in the province./PN