COUNCILOR Peter T. Laviña is set to propose a resolution asking for the release of the balance of Davao City's Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) after a Supreme Court (SC) decision declared illegal the conversion of 16 towns into new cities last year.

This aside from the request to extend the business permits renewal timeframe to January 20 during the first City Council session for 2009 slated January 6.

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Laviña said the city is supposed to receive P2.055 billion as its IRA share last year but this was reduced to P1.861 billion due of the creation of the new cities.

"Instead of an increase of P263 million from the previous year, the city got only an additional P69 million, thereby losing about P194 million," he said.

"With the SC ruling, the city rightfully deserves to receive the full share of the IRA. We need this money to help pump prime the local economy and provide more social services as we face the effects of the global recession in our city," he added.

The 16 cities whose creation was invalidated by the SC include Bogo in Cebu, Catbalogan in Samar, Baybay in Leyte, Mati in Davao Oriental, Tabuk in Kalinga, Lamitan in Basilan, Borongan in Eastern Samar, Bayugan in Agusan del Sur, Tandag in Surigao del Sur, Batac in Ilocos Norte, Carcar in Cebu, Guihulngan in Negros Oriental, El Salvador in Misamis Oriental, Cabadbaran in Agusan del Norte, Naga in Cebu, and Tayabas in Quezon. (GLP)

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(January 3, 2009 issue)
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