CH spends over P300T for seniors induction

CEBU, Philippines - Despite opposition from some of the city councilors, the Cebu City government has shouldered the expenses in yesterday’s induction ceremony and oathtaking of members of Senior Citizen’s Open Organizations Towards Effective Reform.

The city government has allocated P352,000 for the event which was attended by 1,000 officers of the federation of senior citizen’s organizations from the 80 barangays of the city.

In a vote of 7-2, the City Council approved the resolution sponsored by Councilor  Gerardo Carillo for the city government to defray the expenses for the activity of the seniors.

Carillo was supported by Councilors Noel Eleuterio Wenceslao, Philip Zafra, Richard Osmeña, Nendell Hanz Abella, Mary Ann Delos Santos, and Roberto Cabarrubias.

Councilors Alvin Dizon and Eugenio Gabuya opposed the resolution arguing that it would be unfair to use government funds to pay for the meals of the seniors.

Bulk of the amount approved by the Council was allocated for buffet dinner, P280,000. The remaining amount was spent for the rental of the venue, lights and sounds, raffle items, supplies and materials, souvenir items, and blazers for the officers.

 “Let’s be prudent. It’s not acceptable using government funds for meals,” Dizon said.

He said the amount is “too much” for the induction activity and said, “we can hold activity in a simple manner.”

But Wenceslao said the amount is not sufficient for a “lavish dinner” attended by 1,000 participants.

Carillo defended his resolution saying the budget allocation for the seniors is vital to the activity.

 “This kind of activity which will redound to the benefit of the senior citizens deserve the all-out support of the city government,” he added.

The federation is tasked to assist senior citizen’s organizations particularly in health, social, and income opportunities. — /FPL (FREEMAN)