ILOILO – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) has approved a P2.2-billion supplemental budget for this year, aimed at enhancing health services and infrastructure projects.
Prior to the approval, the proposed budget was scrutinized by the Committee on Appropriations chaired by Board Member Domingo Oso Jr.
The supplemental budget proposal was submitted by Provincial Administrator Raul Banias on behalf of Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. on March 11. It had the endorsement of the Executive Committee of the Provincial Development Council.
The budget totals P2,271,686,200.
Looking ahead, the 2025 annual budget for the province is set at P5.1 billion, with P4.17 billion allocated from the General Fund and an additional P957 million earmarked for the Local Economic Enterprise (LEE).
This funding will focus on key development sectors including connectivity, tourism, water supply, agriculture, and renewable energy.
Specific allocations include P1.14 billion for personal services, P1.5 billion for operating expenses, P5 million for capital outlay, and over P1.52 billion for special purpose appropriations.
The budget for the LEE will principally cover salaries for health workers and personnel across 12 district hospitals and the Iloilo Provincial Hospital in Pototan town.
The General Fund is allocated to Personal Services, Special Purpose Appropriations, and Capital Outlay, among others.
Also, the bulk of the budget is directed towards development programs, focusing primarily on connectivity, tourism, water supply, provincial-led Agricultural and Fisheries Extension Systems (PAFES), and renewable energy, among others.
Here’s the breakdown of the General Fund worth P4.174 billion:
* Personal Services – P1,144,766,540
* Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses – P1,498,199,069
* Capital Outlay – P5,000,000
* Special Purpose Appropriations – P1,526,957,536/PN
