Under the leadership of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., the Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to strengthen revenue governance through a modern, transparent, and equitable real property assessment system implemented by the Office of the Provincial Assessor (OPASS).
Recognized for exemplary local assessment performance by the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) Region XII, South Cotabato remains among the top-performing provinces in the region, with taxable assessed values nearing ₱27 billion as of September 2025.
This milestone reflects the provincial government’s strong commitment to sound fiscal management—an agenda consistently championed by Governor Tamayo as a cornerstone of effective governance and inclusive growth.
Ritchie Ballesta, Provincial Assessor, said recognition is the result of sustained technical reforms and consistent policy direction at the provincial level.
“Our focus has been on strengthening the fundamentals of property valuation—accuracy of data, uniform application of standards, and compliance with national policies. These are essential to maintaining a credible and equitable assessment system,” the Provincial Assessor said.
Beyond regional rankings, OPASS has implemented reforms to future-proof South Cotabato’s Real Property Tax Administration (RPTA).
Central to these reforms is the gradual digitalization of tax mapping, assessment records, and valuation systems.
“The shift toward computer-based and paperless processes has improved data integrity, streamlined transactions, and enhanced access to assessment services for property owners across the province,” Ballesta explained.
In line with Republic Act No. 12001, or the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act (RPVARA), OPASS successfully formulated an updated Schedule of Market Values (SMV) using standardized and science-based valuation approaches.
The updated SMV ensures consistency across property classifications and promotes fairness in taxation—balancing revenue generation with social equity as directed by the provincial leadership.
Human resource development also remains a priority.
OPASS personnel underwent intensive training on SMV formulation and base unit construction cost development, and actively participated in national professional engagements.
“These initiatives ensure that local assessment practices remain technically sound and aligned with national standards,” he said.
Revenue gains extended beyond taxation. Through efficient records management and frontline services, OPASS generated over ₱1.9 million in non-tax revenues in 2025 alone—demonstrating operational efficiency and public confidence in assessment services.
As preparations intensify for the 2027 General Revision of Assessments, OPASS continues to engage property owners and stakeholders to promote accurate property declarations and compliance.
“Proper declaration supports fair taxation and enables the province to plan and deliver services more effectively. It is a shared responsibility between government and property owners,” Ballesta emphasized.
These efforts reinforce South Cotabato’s vision—under Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr.—of building a stronger, fairer, and more resilient province through responsible revenue governance.
