Labor leader urges probe on P1.2-million NOHS donation

LABOR leader Wennie Sancho has asked for an investigation on the remaining 50 percent or P162 million of the total P252-million worth of appropriations for donation of the Negros Occidental High School (NOHS).

Although, Sancho commended Thursday Mayor Evelio Leonardia for the school donation, he said Leonardia still has to explain on where the more than P162 million went.

“What about the other half of the P252-million worth of donations, especially in the light of the P1.2 million appropriated for the Class 1980 of the NOHS’ supposed computerization program for their Alma Mater that was solicited by Councilor Em Ang and moved by Councilor Caesar Distrito for approval at the SP last Feb. 8, 2013?” Sancho, convenor of the 3,000-member Negros-Panay Alliance of Labor, asked.

But, Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus Sayson said Sancho should not include Leonardia from the mess that the Ang-solicited fund for NOHS’ alleged computerization had created, as its program of work showed that Raca, in his letter dated Jan. 25, 2013, requested for P1.2 million for sports development program - P336,000; medical mission - P588,000; livelihood program - P396,000, and feeding program - P180,000.

Sancho said Sayson should discipline his members at the City Council and should call for an investigation on this and the other organizations, some of which are reportedly bogus and are unregistered and un-accredited, yet they continue to receive money or donations from the city government.

The program of works of Ang’s project for her classmates also showed that P50,000 was allocated for tarpaulins; P150,000 for contingencies; and P70,000 for gasoline and transportation, among others, Sancho said.

Sancho added that it was not also clear what sports program is Class 1980 undertaking; who are participating; where and when are they holding the medical mission and who will be the recipients; what livelihood assistance or programs will be implemented and the target-beneficiaries and where the feeding program will be held.