Echiverri said the city posted over P937 million, a tad less than the very optimistic goal of P1 billion for the first quarter alone.
The amount reflected an increase of some P252 million over the figure for the same period last year.
The mayor said much of the credit goes to the city government’s able and efficient fiscal management as a whole and, in particular, the no-nonsense collection efforts of all the city’s revenue raising offices.
Echiverri said his administration is making sure this amount goes back to the people in terms of better, faster and more programs for their welfare and benefit.
The Real Property Tax Division of the City Treasurer’s Office collected over P403 million in the last three months, higher by over P10 million compared to its collection for the whole year in 2004.
The city hall also collected over P103 million in regulatory fees, higher by P99.9 million compared to last year’s P3.3 million.
Echiverri said that after this overwhelming show of support he cannot afford to fail his people.
"Tutuparin ko ang ginawa na nating panuntunang, Buwis na Binayaran, Para sa Bayan," said Echiverri.
The battle cry is seen emblazoned and plastered in strategic places, including mobile government vehicles, in the city.
The mayor said he will continue with the reforms he has started even as he seeks the unwavering support of the people for the realization of "the people’s dream for the city."
He said that the continued cooperation and unity of vision by both the leaders and the citizens will ensure the success of all these programs for development. — Jerry Botial