Antique: The provincial government of Antique has secured a budget of over PHP3.2 billion for the year 2026, with significant allocations earmarked for employee salaries and a power subsidy initiative.

According to Philippines News Agency, the budget includes PHP997.71 million for Personnel Services, PHP1.016 billion for maintenance and other operating expenditures, and PHP1.21 billion for special purpose appropriation. Board Member Karmila Rose Dimamay highlighted that a substantial portion of the budget is dedicated to employee salaries and the Provincial Electric Power Subsidy (PEPS).

The PEPS, which is part of the special purpose appropriation, has been allocated PHP600 million. The provincial government employs over 3,000 individuals in various capacities, and this year, the PEPS benefited approximately 129,789 families. Under this program, families who are consumers of either the Antique Electric Cooperative (Anteco) or the Aklan Electric Cooperative (Akelco) can receive a PHP500 subsidy on their monthly electric bill.

The PEPS is mandated by Provincial Ordinance 2025-418, aiming to alleviate the financial burden of electricity costs for residents. Dimamay noted that families who were unable to avail of the PEPS last year could be included in the upcoming year.

In addition to the PEPS, the budget also provides significant funding for projects and facility upgrades across barangays and the province's eight district hospitals.