Econg admitted they had gone there to talk about budget planning but was quick to add that they spent their own money for the excursion in the 24-hectare resort island, a 15-minute boat ride from Oslob town.
"Wa mi mangayo sa syudad. Dili niya mi gaan sa mayor kay way kuwarta (We didn't ask any money from the city)," Econg said.
She said it was a vacation and that they were entitled to it.
Rumors about the excursion had made the rounds at city hall infuriating employees who have yet to receive their long-overdue step increment benefit. A budget for this had been approved by the city council but workers doubt whether the city has set aside funds for it. - Liv G. Campo