SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA — The provincial government of Antique has outlined plans to increase its annual income by PHP119.86 million through amendments to its existing revenue code.
According to Philippines News Agency, the author of the proposed 2023 Revenue Code of Antique, the legislation recently passed its second reading during a regular session on Monday. This move comes after the provincial board initially approved the proposed ordinance in its first reading back in September 2023, which was subsequently subjected to a series of public hearings and consultations.
The amendment aims to update the provincial revenue code, which has not been revised in 18 years since its approval in 2006. Key changes proposed include increased fees for provincial government services and the use of equipment, which Condez described as outdated under the current financial regime.
The projected additional income of PHP119.86 million is expected to arise from various sources. These include the rental of the Binirayan Hostel, which is anticipated to generate PHP855,200; fees for the use of heavy equipment and material testing amounting to PHP3.3 million; and rentals for the old capitol building function room, floating cottage, and "Balay na Bato" for pictorial purposes, expected to bring in PHP530,400. Additional revenue sources include the Sports Development Complex rental, environmental fees, permit applications for quarrying, and charges for services at the Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital, among others.
Bienvenido Nallos Jr., Antique's Provincial Planning and Development Officer, emphasized in a separate interview that the increased revenue would fund various programs, projects, and activities aimed at enhancing services for the province's residents. "The more collections we have, the more services there will be for the people," he stated.
The initiative to revise the revenue code was prompted by Governor Rhodora Cadiao, who urged the local finance committee and the provincial board to consider updates that would enable the government to improve its service offerings through enhanced collection mechanisms. This legislative effort signifies a proactive approach to fiscal management and service enhancement in the province of Antique.