P1-trillion nat’l tax allotment boosts LGUs' HEARTS projects – DOF, Ph

[Starmix]

According to the report, health, education, agriculture and environment, roads and infrastructure, technology and security, and social protection (HEARTS) projects of the local government units (LGUs) have been ensured as their share in the National Tax Allotment (NTA) has been increased.

The report also stated that, citing the 2019 Mandanas-Garcia ruling of the Supreme Court (SC), the Department of Finance (DOF) on Wednesday said LGUs’ share in the NTA has been increased to 40 percent of all national taxes, instead of those only collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). “This means greater capacity for LGUs to improve the delivery of essential services to their constituents and strengthen the government’s commitment to devolution under the Local Government Code of 1991,” the press release said.

DOF said around 43,634 provinces, cities, municipalities, and villages received a total of PHP1.03 trillion in NTA this year, higher by 18.73 percent from the year-ago’s PHP871.38 billion.

The report added, LGUs in the National Capital Region that received the highest share include Quezon City (PHP8.53 billion), City of Manila (PHP5.35 billion), Caloocan City (PHP4.90 billion), Taguig City (PHP3.74 billion), and Pasig City (PHP2.61 billion).

Among the regions, Region 4-A received the biggest share at PHP122.68 billion in 2025, which is projected to increase to PHP141.15 billion next year.

Source: PNA

 

[gwolf666]

My opinion on this report is that it represents positive news for local communities, as the increased share of government funds provides them with a real opportunity to improve their services and development. However, I also believe that this type of announcement can be used by some authorities to promote an image of progress without necessarily guaranteeing the efficient management of these resources.

From my perspective, the true responsibility for leveraging these funds lies with local leaders and the communities themselves. It is crucial that these resources are used transparently, focused on projects that genuinely benefit the population, and that there is effective oversight to prevent misuse. Good management of these funds can transform lives, but it can also become an opportunity for corruption if there is no monitoring.

I believe that citizens and civil society organizations must stay informed, participate in project oversight, and demand accountability. Only in this way can the increased budget funds translate into real improvements for everyone, instead of remaining empty promises or ending up in the hands of a few. Transparency and active participation are key to ensuring that these resources truly serve for equitable and sustainable development.

 

[Starmix]

This amount is intended for projects in the Philippines region by region, unless corrupted by crocs. Hoping this money will be equally distributed for projects.