Bicycle loans for City Hall workers okayed

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Council’s committee on laws is in favor of the proposed ordinance granting bicycle loans to qualified city officials and employees.

This was after the committee on laws, ordinances and styling raised no objections to the legislative measure sponsored by Councilor Eugenio Gabuya Jr.

“Considering the foregoing, this committee finds the proposed ordinance to be within the power of this august body to enact, subject available funds for the said purpose,” a portion of the committee report read.

However, the committee also recommended that it shall be referred to the committee on budget and finance for comments and recommendations.

Considering that the members of the city council see no problem in the committee on laws’ report, they have agreed to refer it to the budget committee.

The committee report was signed by its chairman, Councilor Sisinio Andales.

Last March 20, 2018, Gabuya submitted his ordinance to the other members of the city council. Gabuya, who is a sports enthusiast, sponsored the legislation in order to encourage officials and employees to use bicycles as their means of transportation, saying it is good for their health.

He said the state has the right to protect and promote the health of the people and instill health consciousness among them.

It was stated in the proposed ordinance that elected officials and permanent employees are qualified to avail of the bicycle loan which amounts to P15,000. As defined in the legislation, permanent employees refer to casual and regular City Hall workers.

Those interested in getting such a loan can fill up the application form at the City Treasurer’s Office. After it is approved by the office head, the form shall be forwarded to the Human Resources and Development Office and this will be reviewed within 15 days.

From there, the approved application shall be submitted to CTO for the processing of the check and then the payroll maker shall maintain the records of the borrower.

Payment will be charged every third Friday of the month for elected officials and regular employees, and every second payroll of the month for casual employees.

Once this proposed ordinance will be approved by the city council, the implementing authorities are CTO and HRDO. (FREEMAN)