Talisay SP defers consent to annual investment plan

CEBU, Philippines - The approval of the annual investment plan (AIP), that will virtually pave the way for the discussion and preparation of the city's proposed annual budget for next year, was deferred yesterday by the Talisay City council to allow members to review the list of the proposed projects.

Councilor Edward Alesna, chairman of the committee on budget and finance, said he had asked to hold off its approval, saying that the P300-million budget for the construction of the new Tabunok public market was not included in the item.

The AIP, which has listed a P1.8-billion worth of projects, gets its funds from the Local Development Fund which comes from the city's Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) share.

Alesna said the 2014 AIP is broken down into social development projects at P439,981 million, economic development projects at P16,922 million, and environment management/economic projects at P403,895 million.

Alesna said among the programs, projects, and activities that should be given priority are: solid waste management which may include purchase of related equipment, trucks and compactors, as well as purchase of land and sanitary landfill; purchase of lots for hospitals, health centers, day care centers and similar facilities including the construction, repair and/or maintenance of such facilities.

Other projects that should be prioritized include the purchase of lot for resettlement of squatters including construction of housing units and facilities; activities in support of the Food Security Program, and the Livestock Dispersal, Fisheries Development and Fish Culture Farming Programs.

Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante, the council presiding officer, said he might call for a special session this week to discuss the AIP so that a budget hearing can be scheduled next week. (FREEMAN)