City gov’t set to release P400-M aid to barangays

A TOTAL of P400 million in financial assistance is ready for release to Cebu City’s 80 barangays.

The Cebu City Council approved the aid during last Wednesday’s session.

Mayor Michael Rama was authorized to sign a memorandum of agreement with the barangays for release of their 2012 assistance.

The aid should be released at the same time to barangays that complete requirements, said Councilor Margot Osmeña.

It should also be released “regardless of their political affiliation,” said Councilor Augustus Pe Jr.

The aid ranges from P3 million to P10 million per barangay based on population and land area.

Mayor Rama, however, said it was his prerogative  as mayor how to release the funds.

“They (the council) cannot direct the executive when to release the financial assistance,” he said.

During the April 11 session, Councilor Jose Daluz III, a Rama ally, asked that the mayor be authorized to enter into an agreement with barangays Tagbao and Buhisan for the release of their  financial aid.

His request was referred to the committe on budget, headed by Osmena for review.

Osmena said they had to review compliance with requirements for release of  aid. she said many of the proposed agreements didn’t have attached documents.

They have to ensure that  barangays had  liquidated their previous  2011 assistance spent on infrastructure projects. /Chief of Reporters Doris C. Bongcac