Cebu guv expects smooth relations with PB this year

CEBU, Philippines -  Gov. Hilario Davide III considered the smooth passage of the 2014 annual budget a sign that the executive and the legislative departments  of the Province of  Cebu would have a good working relationship this year.

Davide expressed his gratitude  to Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale and members of the Provincial Board (PB) for approving the P2.6 billion proposed annual budget for 2014 without controversy.

He said the approved budget would guide how the Provincial Government should spend in the implementation of its projects and programs for the year.

“Mao na ato gusto nga (We like to have a) harmonious ang executive and legislative. I’m happy nga mao ni karon ang nahitabo (that this is the case),” Davide said.

He said that for the past six months since they assumed office, there has already been a good working relationship between elected officials of the two branches of the provincial government.

Majority of the PB members are Liberal Party allies of Davide and Magpale.

“I thank the Vice Governor and the Provincial Board for their cooperation and support sa atong mga programa (of our programs),” the governor said.

The PB, during its final 2013 regular session last Dec. 16, approved without further deliberations and discussion the P2.6 billion annual budget submitted by the Office of the Governor.

Board Member Grecilda Sanchez, who heads the PB committee on budget and appropriation, said the proposed budget was carefully scrutinized as it passed through  a series of hearings attended by concerned Capitol department heads.

The 2014 budget is less by P1 billion compared to the P3.6 billion submitted by then governor and now third district Rep. Gwendolyn Garcia for 2013.

Davide assumed office last July 1 after winning in the May 2013 elections.

Of the P2.6 billion budget for this year, P726.12 million is for general services; P1.38 billion for social services; and P490.47 million for economic services.

Development projects and activities worth P407 million are contained under the Province’s Annual Investment Plan for 2014, which is covered by the annual budget.

At 113 million, the biggest chunk of  the amount goes to road, bridge, highway construction and rehabilitation program.

David earlier said he was submitting a lean, prudent but efficient budget, with the end goal of achieving excellent government  service at the least cost. (FREEMAN)