The City Government of Iriga, through the City Budget Office headed by City Budget Officer Elena Maria V. Portea, conducted the Budget Forum for FY 2027 on July 6, 2026 at the DTI-SSF 2F ICT Building, in preparation for the crafting of next year’s budget. This marked the first time the city held a budget forum, bringing together stakeholders to help shape the coming year’s fiscal priorities. The event was attended by Mayor Rex C. Oliva, Vice Mayor Edsel S. Dimaiwat, and Councilors Dandreb N. Abonite, Chair of the Committee on Finance and Appropriation, and Jor-El O. Caayao, along with department heads, heads of offices, and representatives from civil society organizations.
The forum tackled key agenda items to guide the coming year’s fiscal planning. Ar. Benedicto A. Mirasol, Acting City Planning and Development Coordinator, presented the highlights of the FY 2027 Annual Investment Program. This was followed by the presentation of approved plans for FY 2027, with Josephine B. Serdeño, RSW, Social Worker III and GAD Focal Person, presenting the GAD Plan and Budget, and Sheela M. Medina, LGOO VI of the DILG, presenting the Peace and Order and Public Safety Plan.
Mirah A. Nacario, Acting City Treasurer, discussed the sources of funding for 2027, covering the National Tax Allotment and local revenue targets. Dariel O. Mamano, Budget Officer II, presented the spending ceilings by object of expenditure, while Sylvia C. Esparaguera, Administrative Assistant VI, discussed the budget calendar and budget forms. Last to present was Ruvi Ann P. Hermogeno-Andalis, CGADH I, who discussed the general guidelines and other fiscal policies. Following these presentations, the forum closed with an open discussion, giving participants the opportunity to raise questions and clarifications on the budget process. Overall, the activity reinforced the city’s commitment to sound fiscal planning, guided by the principle that budgeting is not just about spending but about providing quality public service to every Irigueño.
Source: Lungsod Ng Iriga