Martinez denies stalling P518.2 million DRRM fund

CEBU, Philippines — Provincial Board (PB) Member Celestino “Tining” Martinez III has pushed back against claims by Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces that the board’s alleged “delaying tactics” have stalled the approval of the proposed P518.2-million Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Trust Fund.

In a statement posted on social media, Martinez said Empaces’ remarks reflected a lack of understanding of the legislative process in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

“Mr. Aldwin Empaces is clearly out of his depth in his role as Assistant Administrator,” Martinez said.

He disputed claims of delay, noting that the resolution covering the proposed DRRM Trust Fund expenditure was received by the office of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan secretary only on March 30, 2026.

Martinez added that his office got a copy of the proposal on March 31, just before the Holy Week break, stressing that the review process has only recently begun.

“Before making public statements, Mr. Empaces should first take the time to understand the matter at hand,” he said, adding that speaking on issues he “clearly does not grasp” only highlights unfamiliarity with the process.

Martinez emphasized that the board adheres to established procedures in evaluating proposed expenditures, especially those involving substantial public funds.

“Let me be clear: in the Sangguniang, we do not delay—we review,” Martinez said. “And we do so carefully, thoroughly, and in strict accordance with our rules and legislative procedures.”

He also noted that Empaces, being new to Capitol operations, should first familiarize himself with the process before issuing public statements.

Martinez said he would formally request Empaces to appear before the PB, along with the budget officer, DRRM officer, and planning officials, to answer questions on the P518.2-million proposal.

He added that the measure has already undergone four revisions, underscoring the need for further clarification from concerned offices.

The exchange came amid concerns raised by the Executive Department over the status of the proposed DRRM Trust Fund, intended to assist communities affected by twin calamities late last year.

The fund, endorsed by the Office of the Governor, is currently under review by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan after being referred to the Committee on Laws.

The Executive Department earlier described the referral as another instance of “delaying tactics,” warning that it could further delay the release of assistance.

Empaces said the process has been stalled since last year, affecting the distribution of critical aid and the implementation of key disaster response programs.

He added that the proposal was not immediately taken up despite being submitted as early as late 2025.

Martinez, however, maintained that the measure is still under careful review, with discussions ongoing at the committee level. He said it may be included in the board’s agenda next week, depending on the outcome of deliberations. Sandara Laurente CTU-Tuburan Intern, FPL CEBU NEWS