Makati LGU allots over P9-B for social development in 2024

The local government of Makati City said Thursday it has allocated nearly P9.2 billion for the city's social development sector.

Makati City Mayor Abby Binay said the amount is nearly half of the P19.70 billion budget for 2024. She said citizens of Makati City could expect enhanced benefits and programs for this year.

"Despite a reduction of P700 million in the National Tax Allotment due to the transfer of the 10 barangays to Taguig, I want to assure Makatizens that our commitment to social services remains unwavering," Binay said in a statement.

"We are blessed to have a steady and thriving economy, and we recognize the importance of utilizing our resources wisely to enhance the overall well-being of residents and foster a more inclusive and equitable society," she added.

Binay said the City of Makati would add anti-shingles vaccine to its list of covered vaccinations to enhance the overall health and wellness of residents who are aged 19 and above.

The vaccine cost ranges from P8,000 to P10,000, but it will be given for free to holders of Yellow Cards, which provide Makati residents with government-subsidized health care.

Based on the approved 2024 budget, the health sector received the largest share among the social development sub-sectors, with P4,136,000,000 (45%), followed by education with P3,253,038,000 (35%), and social welfare, P1,810,718,000 (20%).

Binay also said the city has allocated P2.36 billion for the Ospital ng Makati (OsMak), P1.71 billion for the Makati Health Department (MHD), and P54.38 million for the Veterinary Services Department.

She said health programs covered by this year's budget include the MHD's Primary Health Care Management (P1.04 billion) and OsMak's Patient's Care Program (P1.29 billion).

On the other hand, the city has also allotted P1.70 billion for the Makati Social Welfare Department (MSWD) and P108.14 million for the Youth and Sports Development Department (YSDD).

The local government said that this year's budget is higher by P473.9 million compared to the 2023 budget of P19.23 billion. — VDV, GMA Integrated News