Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez has clarified the recent income reclassification of local government units (LGUs) under Republic Act No. 11964, which resulted in Victorias City retaining its 4th class city classification.
While the city remains a 4th class city, the mayor remains optimistic about its future.
“I want to congratulate all LGUs that have been reclassified to higher income classes. This is a significant milestone reflecting the growth and potential of our communities,” Mayor Benitez said.
He explained that the income reclassification is based on the average annual regular income of LGUs from 2020 to 2022. According to the city treasurer’s calculations, Victorias City falls short of the 3rd class threshold by approximately P50 million.
The mayor attributed the increase in the city’s income in 2022 to the implementation of the Mandanas ruling and the gradual economic recovery post-pandemic.
“Looking at 2023, I’m incredibly proud of Victorias City for being recognized as the Most Improved City in Western Visayas by the Department of Trade and Industry. This recognition is proof that we are on the right track,” he added.
Mayor Benitez emphasized that while the reclassification may reflect past performance, the city’s administration is focused on building a stronger and more resilient future for Victorias.
Several LGUs in Negros Occidental experienced significant changes in their income classification following the recent release of the Department of Finance’s reclassification under Republic Act No. 11964. Among those previously classified as 4th class cities, Escalante, Talisay, and Sipalay have been upgraded to 3rd class.
San Carlos, Bago, and Cadiz have been reclassified from 2nd class to 1st class component cities.
Meanwhile, Himamaylan and Sagay have moved from 3rd class to 2nd class.
These reclassifications will have significant implications for the LGUs’ internal revenue allotment (IRA) and their capacity to fund various development projects and services.