The Manila City Council has approved the release of funds to all 896 barangays in the city, a move aimed at settling longstanding obligations and strengthening local operations. The resolution was passed on December 11 under the leadership of Presiding Officer and Vice Mayor Chi Atienza.
Vice Mayor Atienza described the approval as a testament to responsive governance, saying, “Under the leadership of our Mayor, nakakatuwa dahil nakita niya ang importansya na maibigay ito… This shows that this government really values ang mga barangay dahil instantly, kahit salat sa pondo, ginawan ng paraan para mai-release ito agad sa mga barangay.”
The allocation plan ensures that funds are prioritized based on community needs: 85% for barangay operations and capital outlay, 10% for the Sangguniang Kabataan, and 5% for disaster risk reduction.
Councilor Erika Platon, Liga ng mga Barangay President, said the approval will significantly ease the burden on local leaders, noting, “Marami pong matutulungan ang ating mga Chairman dito… At lalo na, may SK fund na magagamit ang ating mga kabataan ngayong December.”
Councilors Juliana “Yanyan” Ibay and Lou Veloso praised the administration’s effort to address inherited financial obligations, with Veloso emphasizing, “Kahit tayo ay medyo kapos sa pananalapi, pinipilit ni Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso na bayaran ang mga natirang responsibilidad ng nakaraang administrasyon.”
Councilor Louisa Marie “Lady” Quintos-Tan added that while the resolution may seem procedural, “it is very important and will be a big help to the community.”
City officials said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting grassroots governance and ensuring that the needs of Manileños remain a top priority despite fiscal challenges.
