Approval of P2.3B prov'l budget sought

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia is now seeking legislative approval for a working budget on next year’s operation amounting to P2.319 billion.

The proposed 2009 budget is five percent higher compared to last year’s P2.2 billion budget of the province.

In her message to the Provincial Board, Garcia said “this budget espouses the judicious application of resources, bearing my principle in governance that a budget must be – beyond theoretical presentation – an approximation of the people’s hopes and aspirations. It reflects the new age of politics, the new age of governance that we believe has dawned upon this great, indivisible and solid one Province of Cebu.”

The proposed budget, which Garcia submitted, has been referred yesterday to the appropriations committee on first reading, which is chaired by PB member Wenceslao Gakit.

The budget covers general services (P769,748,000), social services (P754,991,000), and subsidy to the economic services (P794,462,000), which the governor stressed are in consistent with the “goals and guidelines of the laws.”

The governor said the proposed budget conforms to her administration’s “budgetary thrust and policies” particularly to her 12-point agenda.

“This budget is on track with the most recent developments affecting local fiscal administration and adopts new concepts of local governance which are directly related to budget administration,” Garcia said.

“It advocates the principles of good governance, with emphasis on participative governance in planning and budgeting as the key to attain fiscal discipline, allocation efficiency, and effective utilization and management of scarce financial resources.”

Garcia said the two-billion plus annual budget has consistently shown its relative independence from the Internal Revenue Allotment.

“Our estimated funds and resources are being considered in the utilization for programs, projects and activities, and for other purposes not contrary to law, with the end view of promoting the general welfare of the Cebuanos, in accordance with the requirements of law and established budgeting principles, procedures, forms and schedules, as observed in the preparation process of this annual budget,” Garcia said in her letter. — Garry B. Lao/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)