Mayor Greg Gasataya has submitted the proposed ₱4.75 billion Bacolod City government budget for 2026 to the Sangguniang Panlungsod for review.
The proposed budget reflects a 7.96 percent (₱350 million) increase over last year, driven by gains in both local and external revenue sources.
The SP approved the proposed budget on first reading at its regular session on Wednesday, Oct. 15, Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson said.
The SP then transmitted the proposed budget to the Committee of Finance, chaired by Sayson for deliberation and hearings.
Sayson said their aim is to finish the review of the budget by December 15.
Gasataya, in a press statement, said the proposed Local Expenditure Program (LEP) underscores the city government’s commitment to inclusive growth, efficient service delivery, and fiscal responsibility, ensuring that every peso is directed toward programs and projects that benefit Bacolodnons the most.
“Our goal is to make sure that every peso spent is felt by the people through improved public services, infrastructure, education, health, and social programs,” Gasataya said.
The Social Services Sector will receive the largest allocation at ₱2.29 billion (48 percent) of the total budget, highlighting his administration’s focus on improving quality of life and addressing the needs of the underprivileged and vulnerable sectors, a statement from the mayor’s office said.
This includes funding for health, education, social welfare, and housing and urban development — areas that directly impact the city’s 747,000 residents, it said.
The General Public Services Sector follows with an allocation of ₱1.19 billion (25 percent), covering essential operating expenses and services rendered to the public, including scholarship programs.
The Economic Services Sector is allotted ₱1.13 billion (24 percent), reflecting increased funding for infrastructure, transportation, flood control, trade and industry, power, energy, and tourism. These initiatives are expected to enhance urban mobility, disaster resilience, and economic activity across Bacolod.
Meanwhile, ₱114.77 million (3 percent) is earmarked for Other Services, covering the implementation, enforcement, and evaluation of various city government projects.*