Mandaluyong, PH – December 11-12, 2023. The Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) under the Department of Finance (DOF) conducted its Executive Development Program, Collaborating for Local Government Committee to LGRP: Key Stakeholders Dialogue, a major initiative funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The event focused on the project’s pivotal components: (1) fortifying institutional development and policy support for property valuation; (2) implementing comprehensive property valuation database and information systems; (3) enhancing real property tax administration within selected Local Government Units (LGUs); and (4) continuing professionalization of assessors and strengthening the capacity of LGUs.

The event created a transformative learning space to discuss and share key insights among the representatives from ADB, DOF, BLGF, the Project Management Unit (PMU), local-elected government officials, members of their Sanggunian and assessors from various LGUs. The collaborative space became an avenue to discuss and talk about the initiatives and innovations of the LGUs on the enhancement of real property assessment and appraisal for taxation purposes including the Gains and Opportunities for the 20 Pilot LGUs. The initiative ended with a strengthened support and commitment to the project’s pivotal components and to bring success to the implementation of LGRP.

Among the attendees are Mr. Pavit Ramachandran, Country Director, Philippines Country Office, ADB, Mr . Aekapol Chongvilaivan, ADB Senior Economist on Public Finance, Undersecretary Bayani H. Agabin, Legal Services and Local Finance Group (LSLFG), DOF with Assistant Secretary Atty.  Joyce Briones, and BLGF Executive Director Consolacion Q. Agcaoili. The event was also honored by the presence of esteemed Local Chief Executives, namely Governor Ricarte R. Padilla of Camarines Norte, Mayor Marilou F. Morillo of Calapan City, Mayor Lucy T. Gomez of Ormoc City, and Mayor Myca Elizabeth R. Vergara of Cabanatuan City.