Negros Occidental SP approves PHP 7.6-B 2026 budget

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental has unanimously approved the province’s PHP 7.618-billion budget for 2026, signaling a bold push to strengthen essential services and speed up recovery efforts.

The annual budget, passed during the regular session on Tuesday, was presided over by Vice Governor Jose Benito “Joeben” Alonso.

The proposed spending plan was approved on second and third reading in immediate succession following a motion by Board Member Marxlen de la Cruz, chairperson of the Committee on Finance and Budget.

All board members present voted in favor of the measure.

The newly approved budget is PHP 1.1 billion higher than the 2025 allocation of PHP 6.457 billion—an increase of 17.98 percent.

Provincial officials said the expanded budget reflects the Capitol’s commitment to investing in key areas such as social services, infrastructure, health care, agriculture, and disaster resilience.

Negros Occidental has faced multiple weather disturbances this year, with Typhoon Tino being the most destructive—triggering heavy floods and significant damage to crops.

These recurring calamities influenced the budget’s direction, prompting provincial leaders to prioritize funding for post-disaster rehabilitation, emergency response upgrades, and the development of climate-resilient infrastructure.

The budget also includes funding for upgrades to provincial and district hospitals, which the government identified as critical following the COVID-19 pandemic and more recent disasters.

These health system improvements are part of the province’s broader long-term development strategy.

Key infrastructure projects under the Abanse Negrense agenda will also be supported by the 2026 budget.

These include road improvements, water system expansion, agricultural modernization programs, and livelihood projects aimed at boosting local income and employment.

With the passage of the budget, all provincial departments and offices are expected to align their 2026 work programs with the expanded recovery and development goals of the administration.