KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato has recorded a significant increase in revenue from sand and gravel tax collections, rising from ₱15 million to more than ₱45 million annually, following strengthened governance and stricter regulation of natural resource operations.
According to Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Siegfred Flaviano, the increase is the result of improved enforcement of existing policies and more efficient monitoring of sand and gravel extraction activities across the province.
Flaviano said tighter supervision and compliance checks have ensured accurate tax collection while requiring operators to adhere to environmental and regulatory standards.
The provincial government emphasized that the increased revenue directly benefits local communities. A portion of the collections is distributed to barangays hosting extraction operations, as well as to concerned municipalities and the provincial government. These funds are used to support local programs and projects, including infrastructure development, health services, and social initiatives.
The initiative aligns with the flagship governance agenda of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., which focuses on responsible and sustainable management of natural resources. The administration continues to prioritize environmental protection while ensuring that communities receive tangible benefits from the province’s natural assets.
Provincial officials underscored that the growth in revenue demonstrates the impact of transparent governance and effective tax administration. With increased local funding, barangays and municipalities are better equipped to deliver essential public services and respond to the needs of their constituents.
The provincial government continues to call for cooperation among stakeholders to sustain responsible resource management and ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from South Cotabato’s natural wealth.
