City dad questions JVR’s ‘failure’ to convene youth body

CEBU, Philippines – What has the administration of Mayor Johnny "JVR" De los Reyes done so far for the youth of Talisay City?

As far as implementing youth-related programs under the Talisay City Youth Development Commission (TCYDC), there's none, according to City Councilor Danilo Caballero.

Caballero, who sits as a member of the commission, said De los Reyes has not convened the members about the programs and projects to be implemented in relation to youth development.

The creation of TCYDC is provided under a city ordinance which was enacted in 2004.

Because De los Reyes, who as mayor is automatically the commission's chairman,  did not meet the body, Caballero accused the mayor's administration of not fully implementing the ordinance.

"We cannot recall any instance receiving formal invitation for a meeting called upon for the purpose of enforcing such ordinance," Caballero said.

Under the ordinance, all city councilors who are members of the 5th Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Youth Development shall also be the regular members of  the TCYDC.

Caballero said the city council approved in 2014 an appropriation of P1.5 million for the implementation and maintenance of the TCYDC, as stated in the 5th SP Appropriation Ordinance Number 2013-03.

But since 2014, Caballero said, no meeting has ever transpired.

"For transparency and responsible governance, there is a need for every member of the cited SP Committee on Youth Development to be properly aware of the past and ongoing implementation and maintenance of the TCYDC, including the disbursement of its funds," Caballero added.

Last session, the city council passed a resolution requesting De los Reyes to fully enforce such ordinance.

Caballero also asked the executive department to submit an expenditure report on how the funds are being used, particularly since 2014 up to present.

Caballero said he will furnish copies of the executive department's report to the office of the Commission on Audit, City Accounting and City DILG.

De los Reyes, meanwhile, said he is still waiting for the copy of the approved council session and chose not to issue a statement until then.  (FREEMAN)