Ad hoc body to aid Labella to simplify budget

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama has moved for the formation of an ad hoc committee to work with Mayor Edgardo Labella to “refocus and streamline” the budget and help find other sources of funds for priority projects.

“My dear friends and colleagues, there are 19 of us here in the legislative whom the people directly entrusted. My good friend, my brother in service, our Mayor, sits alone in the executive branch as the only one directly entrusted and accountable to the people. Capable as he may be, he is nonetheless, new,” said Rama in a privilege speech Wednesday before the City Council.

Rama felt the duty and obligation to help Labella to keep his people in check, accountable and responsible.

The ad hoc committee Rama has proposed comprises himself, Councilors Phillip Zafra, Raymond Alvin Garcia, Eduardo Rama Jr., Nestor Archival, Franklyn Ong, Lea Japson and Alvin Dizon.

In his privilege speech, Rama stressed that it is important for them to ensure that they have not forgotten who is the boss— the people.

“We are here to serve and protect the people’s welfare and the people’s money,” said Rama.

Rama, in a press conference yesterday, said the 2021 budget should focus on the pandemic, flooding, and social concern, among others.

He, however, clarified that he is not dissatisfied with the proposed projects for next year.

“I’m not saying dissatisfied, but we just have to bring enlightenment so that we will not be made answering sa mga tawo,” said Rama.

For the vice mayor, “what is the need of the time, that will be the budget.”

“Please do not take my admonitions with a grain of salt. I am not politicking. I have no interest in taking other people’s jobs or usurping anyone’s authority. I am merely exercising my brotherly prerogatives and obligations as the party leader and keeping in line with our promise of transparency,” said Rama towards the end of his privilege speech.

Rama also assured that there is still time to pass the 2021 budget.

The City Council has already been conducting a budget hearing on the proposed P10.8 billion budget for next year. — GMR (FREEMAN)