Lawmaker backs sector reps on Special Autonomy Fund use

BENGUET Representative Ronald Cosalan expressed his support to the clamor of the private sector representatives (PSRs) of the Regional Development Council (RDC) on the proper use of the autonomy fund.

Cosalan said the special autonomy fund (SAF) should be used for the information, education, and communication campaign of the advocacy as planned.

“I agree with the private sector representatives on their claim [that autonomy fund should be for autonomy and not for other purpose],” said Cosalan during an exclusive interview with Sun.Star Baguio on Saturday.

During the third quarter meeting of the RDC on August 31, PSRs strongly opposed the use of SAF to a New York tour of officials for a fashion show. The tour was proposed by the Department of Trade and Industry Regional Director Myrna Pablo.

The fashion show was held September 15 to 17 at the Waldorf-Astoria, 301 Park Avenue, New York. The fashion show aimed to promote the cultural clothes of the country.

After the RDC meeting, the council conducted a special meeting the following week where members discussed the issue. As a result, the council allowed the SAF to be used for the tour.

Cosalan said the autonomy bill is still under the House Committee on Appropriations for the study of possible sources of revenues.

He added that after the bill will pass the committee, it will be returned to the House Committee on Local Governance.

Ifugao Representative Teddy Baguilat Jr. earlier said IEC campaign should push through even if the bill is still pending in the 15th Congress because some rural areas are not yet informed. He cited two barangays in Ifugao where the communities have never heard of it.