CEBU, Philippines - Compared to previous years, Talisay City job orders will receive this year a paltry sum of money as Christmas bonus.
Workers in previous years received P5,000 to P7,000, depending on the number of months they have rendered work including kilos of rice or grocery items.
But many job order workers are happy P2,000 this year.
City administrator John Yre De los Reyes said that as much as the mayor would like to give, a Commission on Audit ruling prevents him from being generous.
City accountant Viluzminda Villarante said COA is strict when it comes to releasing money.
In past years, Talisay had a surplus.
Yre hopes the city can afford to give P10,000 next year to the workers. (FREEMAN)