Capitol to provide funds for leagues of local officials

Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia vowed yesterday to provide financial assistance to the provincial leagues of mayors, vice mayors and councilors for their programs and projects.

Garcia’s statement was made during the oath-taking ceremony of the officials of the Cebu Vice Mayor’s League, which is headed by Ace Stefan Binghay, and Philippine Councilor’s League-Cebu Chapter, which is under Alfred Francis Ouano, at the Capitol Social Hall.

According to Garcia, each league will receive P1 million, drawing cheers from the local officials.

But Garcia, however, said “as I commit this, remember that these are public funds. Use this wisely and well.”

During the event, Garcia even called for her political opponents to join in her effort to bring better services to the province.

Among those of her political opponents who attended the event were Pinamungajan Mayor Geraldine Yapha, Medellin Vice Mayor Michael Miranda and Toledo City Vice Mayor Aurelio Espinosa.

They ran in the May 14 elections under the defeated tandem of former Congress representatives Antonio Yapha and Clavel Asas-Martinez.

“We must work together, we must achieve together. I will lead this province not by political posturing,” the governor said.

Garcia stressed that being elected in their respective areas, the local officials have their mandate to serve and unite for the betterment of the province.

“Let us put the province to its rightful stage not just in the national level but on the international stage,” Garcia added. —  Garry B. Lao/LPM