Guv: PB Maambong not a puppet chairman

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia dispelled speculations that Provincial Board Member Victor Maambong might end up a puppet chairman of the PB committee on budget and appropriations.

Although Maambong is a political ally, Garcia denied allegations that she will make him a rubberstamp chairman of the committee, which is tasked to scrutinize budget proposals from the executive department.

"I don't think Victor Maambong will appreciate that kind of identification because he has an established track record of being a hard working and an upright member of the board. He has his own mind," Garcia told The FREEMAN.

The governor stressed that she does not dip her hands when it comes to legislative matters, especially with the recent reorganization of committee chairmanships at the PB.

With Maambong now replacing Board Member Gabriel Luis Quisumbing, an opposition, as the chairman of the powerful committee, Garcia said she expects "less absences during crucial voting days" that would sometimes tie down proposed measures covering appropriations.

Garcia expressed appreciation over the rationale behind the committee reorganization. "Ang tinguha sa vice governor nga magkahiusa ang direction og tinguha sa executive and legislative, not for either of our personal reasons but really for the greater good of the province."

With the recent development, Garcia said she is glad that her policies are now "in consonance with the thinking" of Vice Governor Gregorio Sanchez and majority of the board.

Last Monday, the PB implemented a reorganization of its five standing committees, which include the powerful committee on budget and appropriations.

Sanchez, who said the move was anchored on good governance, was empowered by the PB to effect the reorganization through a resolution it recently passed. - Cristina C. Birondo