Lapu-Lapu City has approved a P4.72-billion budget for fiscal year 2026, funding core government operations, public hospitals, market management, and disaster preparedness programs.
The budget was passed unanimously by the Sangguniang Panlungsod through Ordinance No. 17-033-2025 on December 11, 2025, and approved by Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” Chan on December 22.
Implementation takes effect January 1, 2026.
Of the total, P4.25 billion is allocated to the General Fund Proper to support city offices, including the Office of the Mayor, Vice Mayor, Sangguniang Panlungsod, and departments covering education, human resource management, and Lapu-Lapu City College.
Hospital services will receive P432.56 million for Lapu-Lapu City Hospital and Sta. Rosa Community Hospital, while P33 million is earmarked for city market and slaughterhouse operations.
The budget, prepared by City Budget Officer Judith D. Furuta and endorsed by Mayor Chan, ensures the continued delivery of essential programs and services.
Mandatory allocations are included, such as the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund under RA 10121, with 30 percent reserved as a Quick Response Fund for emergency and post-disaster aid.
Twenty percent is allocated to the Development Fund to finance priority projects under the city’s 2026 Annual Investment Program.
Employee welfare measures are strengthened through bonuses, productivity incentives, medical allowances, and other compensation packages aimed at improving service delivery.
Health services will continue under the no-balance-billing policy in city hospitals, ensuring that indigent patients, senior citizens, and other qualified beneficiaries are not charged beyond PhilHealth coverage.
Transparency and accountability provisions are reinforced, requiring revenue and expenditure postings in public spaces and online platforms.
Procurement activities will follow RA 9184, with early procurement allowed to ensure timely project implementation. (VCL)
