Talisay SP ditches city dad resolution

CEBU, Philippines - After a heated argument, the Talisay City council, in a vote of 9-3, rejected the proposed resolution of opposition Councilor Romeo Villarante calling for support for Rep. Julieta Cortuna’s (Party-list, A TEACHER) House Resolution Bill No. 2742 that seeks to mandate local government units to disclose in public their budget and finances, expenditures, disbursements, funds utilization, bids, and public offerings.

In yesterday’s council session, Majority Floor Leader Rodi Cabigas pointed out that the city government already makes full disclosure of everything the bill asks for. He said these disclosures are posted at city hall and in other public places.

Cortuna’s bill seeks to require governors, city mayors, and municipal mayors to disclose and post the following fiscal items, namely, the annual budget; quarterly statement of cash flows; statement of receipts and expenditures; trust fund (PDAF) utilization; special education fund utilization; 20% component of the IRA utilization; gender and development fund utilization; statement of debt service; annual procurement; and abstract of bids as calculated. 

Also, all local treasurers, accountants, budget officers, and other accountable officers shall post the fiscal items in three publicly accessible and conspicuous places in their website and national newspaper.

Councilor Richard Francis Aznar, who also belongs to the administration, said the public might be “misconstrued” that the city government is not doing anything when it comes to transparency in local finances and budget. 

“The Talisay City Government already observes this procedure,” Aznar said.

He suggested that in Villarante’s proposed resolution, a “whereas” clause should be included that would indicate that the Talisay City government already observes the procedure.

But Villarante rejected the proposal saying the resolution is merely to support the bill of the congresswoman. 

“With due respect, it’s an illogical reason. The resolution is not directed at Talisay City but plainly seeks support for the bill of Rep. Julieta Cortuna,” Villarante said.

Villarante also alleged administration members do not practice transparency citing that until now the city has failed to provide a list of lots purchased by the government. 

“Talisay City does not practice transparency. I am aware of it. How many lots have been purchased by the city government, which until today we have not been furnished a copy of what we have requested?” Villarante said.  (FREEMAN)