The Philippines has 87 provinces that serve as the second-level administrative divisions, positioned between the national government and municipalities or cities. Each province is governed by an elected governor and provincial board, responsible for delivering services that require coordination across multiple municipalities, including provincial roads and hospitals, agricultural extension programs, and environmental management. Provinces handle budgeting and planning for infrastructure projects, provide technical assistance to local governments, and implement national programs at the regional level. They maintain provincial jails, manage investment promotion, and oversee social welfare services. While provinces have significant autonomy in local affairs, their powers are more limited than those of highly urbanized cities, which operate independently of provincial jurisdiction. The provincial government acts as an intermediary layer that bridges national policy with local implementation.