DBM approves realignment of funds for hospital equipment

DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) in Manila has approved the request of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo to realign funds in connection with the controversial P100 million infrastructure outlay from the Department of Health (DOH).

Degamo wants to use the P100 million to purchase additional equipment for the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital, which includes the installation of an automatic oxygen system.

In a letter dated June 24, 2013, DOH Regional Director Dr. Asuncion Andem informed Degamo of DBM's nod, which also gave her the go signal to coordinate with governor on the type of equipment to be purchased for the hospital, as well as their corresponding specifications.

Degamo's office received Andem's letter on June 28, 2013. Anden said the P100 million allotment is valid until December 31, 2013.

The amount was supposed to be released before this year's local and national elections, but was stalled in view of massive politicking and even objection by some quarters.

Degamo wanted the amount transferred to the provincial government coffers and that the bidding process be conducted locally as provided for by existing laws and regulations.

In lieu of this development, Anden requested the governor to forward his written request to DOH Sec. Enrique Ona for approval. If granted, the DOH will immediately process the transfer of funds so that the hospital equipment can be procured on or before the end of December 2013.

Attached to Anden's letter is the approved Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) No. B-13-00982 dated May 10, 2013 signed by DBM Usec Mario Relampagos, which specified that the P100 million for buildings and structures outlays under the health facilities enhancement program of the DOH shall be re-aligned to Hospital Equipment.

Provincial Administrator Arnel Francisco said the governor will be sending the written request to Ona through Anden's office. —/JMO (FREEMAN)