ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) -- The town of Odiongan is set to be elevated from a second-class municipality into a first-class municipality later this year.

This change cames a result of the enactment of Republic Act 11964 or the Automatic Income Classification of Local Government Units Act, which President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. recently signed into law.

Under the new law, LGUs will be classified based on their income ranges and average annual regular income. The first general income reclassification will be made within six months after its effectivity and every three years thereafter.

As a first-class municipality, Odiongan will be eligible for increased administrative and statutory aid, financial grants, and other forms of assistance from the national government. The new classification will also serve as the basis for determining an LGU's capability to undertake development programs and projects, as well as adjustment of compensation for LGU personnel under the Salary Standardization Law of 2019.

Mayor Trina Firmalo-Fabic has expressed joy at this upcoming change, emphasizing the importance of unity between the government and private sector in driving positive change in the community.

In her recent address during the Rizal Day celebration, she highlighted Odiongan's recognition of government efficiency and hopes for the community to remain prosperous, progressive, and resilient.

She also noted that the upgrade brings Odiongan closer to its residents’ dream to have it become as the first city in Romblon.

“This new classification is a welcome development to us especially to the community who will benefit from the additional National Tax Allotment to the LGU. Also, being a first-class municipality will encourage investors to invest in businesses in our town,” the Mayor said in a separate interview with Radyo Pilipinas Lucena on Thursday.

Based on COA's audit report, the municipality generated a total income of P218 million in 2021.

According to RA 11964, a municipality must have an annual average income of P200 million or more to be classified as a first-class municipality. (PJF/PIA Mimaropa - Romblon)