Negros Occidental LGUs urged to adopt property valuation reform

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on Tuesday, Jan. 6, urged local government units (LGUs) in the province to adopt a standardized system of real property valuation and assessment under a 2024 law.

Lacson made the call during an orientation on Republic Act No. 12001, or the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act (RPVARA), held Tuesday at Negros Residences in Bacolod City.

The activity was spearheaded by the Negros Association of Chief Executives in partnership with the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental and the Cadiz City government.

The orientation aimed to familiarize LGUs and stakeholders with the law’s key provisions and prepare them for its proper and uniform implementation.

The RPVARA seeks to institutionalize a fair, transparent, and standardized system of real property valuation across the country.

Ma. Pamela Quizon, officer-in-charge chancellor of the Local Government Finance Institute, served as the resource speaker.

The institute is the primary training and capacity-building arm of the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF).

Quizon discussed the policy framework and technical requirements of the reform, including valuation standards, compliance mechanisms, and potential implementation challenges.

In his message, Lacson said the law affirms the use of market value as the basis for property valuation under uniform national standards.

He said the approach is expected to enhance credibility and strengthen public confidence in local taxation and assessment systems.

Lacson added that the RPVARA clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of LGUs, including the preparation and regular updating of the Schedule of Market Values.

He said the law also mandates public consultations and compliance with valuation and assessment standards prescribed by statute.

“This reform is not only about compliance, but about building a valuation system that is fair, credible, and responsive to development needs,” Lacson said.

The governor thanked participating officials, saying their attendance reflected a collective commitment to strengthening local governance through property valuation reforms.

He also acknowledged the BLGF for providing guidance, technical assistance, and continued collaboration with the province and its LGUs in implementing the law.