The Davao City Treasurer's Office (CTO) has announced a remarkable achievement in local revenue collection, with total earnings reaching Php 15,146,232,423.44 for the year 2025. This figure represents a significant 12.93 percent increase compared to the 2024 collection of Php 13,411,774,117.29, highlighting the city's robust financial growth and effective fiscal management.
Key Factors Behind the Revenue Surge
Atty. Lawrence D. Bantiding, the City Treasurer, explained to the City Information Office (CIO) that this impressive growth was driven by multiple factors. He noted that the majority of the city's revenue sources saw substantial increases, including:
- Business taxes
- Real property taxes
- Professional tax
- Property transfer tax
In a statement, Bantiding emphasized, "The factors contributing to this increase include the improvement in business activities within the city, the rise in the number of professionals, and the heightened awareness among taxpayers regarding their obligation to pay taxes correctly." This reflects a positive trend in economic activity and civic responsibility among Dabawenyos.
Impact of Good Governance and Business Environment
Bantiding further highlighted that every resident of Davao City is cognizant of the excellent governance demonstrated by the local administration, which is evident in the steady rise in revenue collection. He pointed out that the increase in gross sales and revenues from existing business enterprises serves as another clear indicator of the favorable business environment in the city.
"Due to the increasing revenue, the city now has sufficient funds to provide better services for our constituents," Bantiding added. This financial boost is expected to enhance public services and infrastructure, benefiting the community directly.
Future Projections and Considerations
Looking ahead, the city has set an ambitious target for 2026, with an approved final collection goal of Php 15,889,456,550. This projection takes into account various factors, such as inflation and the implementation of a real property tax amnesty, which are anticipated to influence revenue streams. The steady increase in collections over the years underscores Davao City's commitment to sustainable financial planning and economic development.
Overall, this revenue milestone not only showcases Davao City's economic vitality but also reinforces its position as a leading local government unit in the Philippines, capable of driving growth through sound policies and community engagement.
