Council blocks appeal to probe donation

CEBU, Philippines — Members of the majority bloc in the Cebu City Council denied an appeal to investigate the donation of 16,000 live chickens to the city government by a private company.

Councilor Jessica Resch, an ex-officio member of the council representing the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, asked for an executive session to shed light and put an end to the issues surrounding the donated chicken.

Resch, who belongs to the minority bloc, delivered a privilege speech Wednesday stating that “the issue of the missing chickens has not died at all.”

She wanted to invite the donors in an executive session for them to be able speak up regarding the issue.

More than a month ago, the council approved the resolution of Councilor Raymond Alvin Garcia authorizing Mayor Edgardo Labella to enter into and sign a deed of donation with the donor of the live chicken broilers.

Resch wanted to know where the deed of donation is, why the donor is looking for it, and if it has been signed and notarized, can the council be furnished a copy thereof.

“The issue of the missing chickens seems to have been symbolic of what a failure we all are as a legislative body, as a government. What a shame to the constituency we represent,” said Resch.

Resch’s motion calling for an executive session was denied with nine of the members voting against it. — FPL (FREEMAN)