Makati’s Fiscal Discipline Fuels City Growth
MANILA, Philippines — Outgoing Makati Mayor Abby Binay emphasized the importance of maintaining the city government’s reputation for fiscal discipline, transparency, and steady financial growth cultivated during her nine years in office. She stressed that these core values remain essential for continued progress.
Binay highlighted how her administration’s focus on innovative public service, transparency, and strict adherence to auditing standards helped build strong taxpayer trust. “For the past nine years, we took bold steps to revolutionize public service and deliver groundbreaking benefits to our constituents while ensuring that every peso of taxpayers’ money is accounted for,” she said.
Consistent Revenue Growth and Fiscal Autonomy
The city’s fiscal discipline under Binay’s leadership has resulted in impressive revenue growth, rising from P16 billion in 2016 to P24.15 billion in 2024. These figures consistently surpassed yearly revenue targets, with the local government collecting P15.65 billion as of May this year alone.
“The city’s stable revenue growth has been crucial to achieving our short and long-term goals over the last nine years,” she noted. This strong financial foundation earned Makati City recognition from the Department of Finance as the top city for fiscal autonomy in fiscal years 2022 and 2023. Additionally, the city received eight consecutive unmodified audit opinions from the Commission on Audit from 2017 through 2024.
Tax Cuts and Economic Growth Initiatives
Binay also pointed to the recent approval of city ordinance No. 2025-047 in March, which lowered real property taxes and tax assessments. “This is our way of showing our appreciation to our taxpayers, while ensuring that Makati remains the location of choice for foreign and local investors. More investments mean sustained economic growth, more jobs for Makatizens, and continued public services,” she explained.
These fiscal measures support the city’s goal of sustained economic growth and job creation, reinforcing Makati’s standing as a prime investment destination.
Advancing Health and Education Programs
Binay underscored how her administration’s developments enabled the launch of flagship health and education programs. Beyond the Ospital ng Makati, residents now benefit from the Makati Life Medical Center, which offers top-tier medical care, including specialized cancer services.
The city also enhanced education by upgrading 518 public classrooms into smart classrooms equipped with Hybrid Interactive Boards and free internet access. Students received school supplies, hygiene kits, dental kits, and grocery packs, ensuring a supportive learning environment.
Teachers at city public schools were granted special allowances along with smart devices and essential tools to enhance their teaching capabilities.
Local leaders noted that these initiatives reflect Makati’s commitment to delivering quality public services while maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency.
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