A mayor in the Philippines serves as the chief executive of a city or municipality leading development projects, public services, disaster response, and local governance. While many people know mayors are powerful figures, few understand how their compensation is determined. This article explains the Mayor Salary Philippines, the laws that dictate it, and the factors that influence it.
Legal Framework: Why Mayor Salaries Are Standardized
Salary Standardization Law (SSL)
The salaries of mayors and other government officials in the Philippines are governed by the Salary Standardization Law (SSL). The most recent framework in effect is Salary Standardization Law V (SSL‑V), which sets uniform pay scales for government positions across all local government units (LGUs).
This law ensures fairness and predictability in government pay. Positions are classified into salary grades (SG), with mayors typically placed in higher grades due to their level of responsibility.
Local Government Code (RA 7160)
The Local Government Code of 1991 defines the roles and responsibilities of LGUs, including mayors, and allows LGUs to determine allowances and other compensation components within national guidelines.
How Much Do Mayors Earn? (2025 Figures)
Mayor salaries in the Philippines vary depending on the type of LGU (municipality, component city, highly urbanized city) and their income classification. Under SSL‑V, mayors’ salaries fall into the following approximate ranges:
| LGU Type | Salary Grade | Approx. Monthly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Municipal Mayor | SG 30 | ₱185,695 – ₱207,978 |
| Component City Mayor | SG 30 | ₱185,695 – ₱207,978 |
| Highly Urbanized City Mayor | SG 31 | ₱217,144 – ₱246,267 |
These figures are base salaries and may vary slightly based on step levels within each salary grade and local ordinances.
Components of Mayor Compensation
a. Base Salary
The fixed monthly pay determined by the Salary Standardization Law according to the mayor’s salary grade.
b. Allowances
Mayors often receive Representation and Transportation Allowances (RATA) to cover expenses when performing official duties. Other allowances may include communication, fuel, and meeting representation allowances, depending on LGU policies.
c. Bonuses
Government officials, including mayors, receive statutory bonuses like:
- 13th-month pay
- Cash gift
- Performance-Based Bonus (PBB) (subject to eligibility and performance)
These bonuses are separate from the base salary and can significantly increase total compensation.
What Determines the Salary of Mayors?
a. LGU Classification
Cities and municipalities are classified based on average annual income, from 1st class to 6th class. Higher classification usually allows for higher salaries and allowances for officials.
b. City Type
Highly urbanized cities like Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Quezon City have larger budgets and populations, placing their mayors at higher salary grades compared with smaller municipalities.
c. Legal and Budgetary Limits
While the national government sets the basic salary through SSL, LGUs can adjust compensation within budgetary limits and legal ceilings, provided they comply with personnel service limitations under the Local Government Code.
Comparison With Other Local Officials
To provide context, here’s how mayor salaries compare with other local government positions:
- Vice Mayors: Slightly less than mayors but still high due to leadership roles.
- City/Municipal Councilors: Earn less than mayors and vice mayors, reflecting their legislative functions.
- Provincial Governors: May earn comparable salaries to city mayors, especially for larger provinces.
Public Perception and Transparency
Public understanding of official salaries fosters government accountability and transparency. When citizens are informed about how much local leaders earn, it supports:
- Better evaluation of public officials’ performance
- More informed voting decisions
- Discussions on budget priorities and governance
Challenges and Debates
a. Disparities Among LGUs
Despite standardization, differences in classification and budgets mean a mayor in a small municipality earns significantly less than a mayor in a major city — leading to debates on compensation fairness.
b. Allowances and Misuse Concerns
While allowances are legal, misapplication or misuse has been a point of discussion among citizens and watchdog groups.
How to Find Specific Mayor Salaries
If you want to know the exact salary of a mayor in a particular city or municipality:
- Check the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the latest Salary Standardization Law schedules.
- Visit the LGU’s official website or review their budget ordinances.
- Review Commission on Audit (COA) reports for public sector salary data.
Conclusion
Mayors in the Philippines play a crucial role in local governance, and their compensation reflects both national standardization laws and local government classifications. Salaries vary depending on city status and income class, while additional allowances and bonuses contribute to the total benefits package. Understanding these figures enhances transparency and promotes accountability in local leadership.