Tuesday, October 17, 2006 Capitol submits P2B budget
THE Cebu Provincial Government has set aside more than P2 billion for next year for roads, bridges, health and education and socio-economic projects.
The proposed appropriation is P2.001 billion, or about P8 million less than this year’s budget.
“(This budget is) a reiteration of this administra-tion’s thrust and a reaffirmation of its philosophy of governance. The budget stresses continuity of existing programs while granting flexibility to immediately respond to changing needs and circumstances,” Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia said in her message to the Provincial Board.
More than P810 million or 40.51 percent of the total budget is allocated for general public services while more than P445 million or 22 percent is set aside for social services.
Economic services get 37.25 percent or more than P745 million of the total allocation.
Most provinces have exceeded the 45 to 55 percent limit on personnel services appropriation but this is not the case for the Province of Cebu. In next year’s budget, personnel services only accounts for 25.65 percent, a slight decrease from this year’s 27 percent.
Garcia also pointed out that unlike other smaller provinces where more than 90 percent of its budget depends on the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA), Cebu’s IRA is only 48.55 percent of the total 2007 proposed budget.
Also, for next year, Capitol employees’ work will be recognized and rewarded through the program on awards and incentives for service excellence.
Outsourcing as a way to fill up vacant positions will continue to be implemented next year.
“As the state of the Province is strong, this budget intends to make that strength work for the people and to make it real for the people through programs that make a concrete contribution to their daily lives,” the governor said. (MBG)
