Negros Occidental proposes PHP 8.52 billion 2027 budget

BACOLOD CITY — The Negros Occidental provincial government has proposed a PHP 8.52 billion budget for 2027, an increase of PHP 900.09 million from its PHP 7.6 billion budget for 2026.

The proposed budget represents an 11.81% increase.

The proposed appropriation consists of PHP 8.203 billion for the General Fund Proper and PHP 315.55 million for the Economic Enterprise Development Department, a special account under the General Fund, bringing the total proposed budget to PHP 8.519 billion.

The budget aims to strengthen the delivery of essential public services and advance priority programs in agriculture and food security, infrastructure development, economic growth, trade, investment and employment.

It also covers public health, environmental management and tourism, education, culture, sports and information and communications technology, as well as good governance and human development.

Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson submitted the proposed annual budget through officer-in-charge Budget Officer Gemma Flores to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for deliberation Tuesday.

In his message, Lacson said the proposed budget reflects the provincial government’s commitment to good and responsible governance, guided by its seven-point development agenda and the prudent use of public resources.

He emphasized the need to set clear priorities and carefully manage available resources amid growing government responsibilities and the continuing needs of Negrenses.

Meanwhile, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz said the proposed budget reflects a significant increase driven by a higher National Tax Allotment and stronger local revenue collection.