Citing lack of council nod, vice mayor questions projects

CEBU, Philippines - A P1.2 million worth of infrastructure projects conducted by the executive branch was questioned by Talisay City Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante.

Villarante requested Councilor Edward Alesna to defer the approval of the six separate resolutions prepared by the latter, until such time the members of the Bids and Awards Committee will be able to shed light on why the projects have already been undertaken even without the permission of the legislative body.

Alesna, chairman of the committee on budget and finance, authored a resolution giving authority to Mayor Johnny V. de los Reyes to enter into a contract with the winning bidder/contractor to undertake such projects.

 "I want them to explain because it did not pass council's scrutiny and there was no authorization from the City Council," Villarante said.

The BAC is headed by City Administrator John Yre de los Reyes, who was asked to appear in today's  council session.

The amount covers the asphalt overlay near the Talisay Central School in Barangay Poblacion in the amount of P244,975.

Other transactions were the construction of perimeter fence at the San Roque Elementary School in the amount of P199,087.68 and the rehabilitation of local roads/pathways at Borromeo Brothers Elementary School in Barangay Cansojong for P225,200.

In addition were the concreting of flooring and drainage system at Borromeo Brothers Elementary School for P399,900; the improvement of  COA stock room at Talisay City Hall for P21,600 and rehabilitation of historical sites at the Landing Monument in Poblacion in the amount of P 99,524.17.

Alesna's resolution was based on the BAC resolution which was submitted for Council's appropriation and approval. (FREEMAN)