2013 investment plan held hostage

HERE’S what was overlooked in yesterday’s stormy Cebu City Development Council Meeting.

The 2013 Annual Investment Plan (AIP) worth at least P900 million was not passed.

The projects listed here are supposed to tap the city’s 20 percent development fund.

Mayor Michael Rama said he may call for a special meeting before year end to act on this – or just wait for the next CDC full council meeting next year.

Even if the AIP is not passed, projects on the list can still be funded and implemented.

Councilor Margot Osmena said the city’s planning officer will just have to identify P220 million worth of priority projects on the list and have it approved by the City Council which is almost done reviewing the 2013 annual budget.

Councilor Jose Daluz said the projects listed in the AIP will not go to waste since the AIP will serve as a “continuing proposal that can later be taken up by the City Council r the mayor.”

Under the Local Government Code, 20 percent of the annual internal revenue allotment received by the city should be set aside fo development projects.

The 2013 AIP has projects for social development – P194.3 million, economic development – P 593.6 million and environment management/economic development – P97.3 million.

These include lot acquisition for resettlement sites (P27 million), renovation of the sports complex/evacuation center in Budlaan ( P10 million), and P4 million for the city’s development plan for children.

Economic projects include P180 million to complete the reconstruction of Carbon Market unit II and another P110 million for a new fish market and fish port.

For the ecology, P13.1 million is proposed for Materials Recovery facilities. More garbage trucks and drainage improvement are included./Chief of Reporters Doris Bongcac