Monday, November 27, 2006 For summit, council taps P1M from Pagcor By Linette C. Ramos Sun.Star Staff Reporter
APART from expenses for road repairs and beautification projects, the Cebu City Government is spending an additional P1 million for the Asean summit next month.
The Cebu City Council approved last Wednesday the appropriation of P500,000 for the uniforms of some 350 student volunteers who will assist in the summit.
The councilors also approved the appropriation of P450,701.12, which will defray the costs of the “Asean Pasigarbo sa Sugbo” at the SM City Trade Hall.
Both appropriations will be charged to the City Government’s Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) funds.
The “Asean Pasigarbo sa Sugbo” will showcase Cebu’s fashion accessories, handicrafts, furniture, novelty items and delicacies.
It will run from Dec. 9 to 12 and will be held “to promote Cebu to the world, putting our best foot forward during the much-awaited Asean summit.”
Local goods
Organizers of the project hope to attract delegates of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit to buy local products during the trade fair.
“Considering the enormity of the activity, it would be very strategic for the City to promote our local industries and tourism... The event will give us a chance to show the Asean community what Cebu is proud of,” Councilor Eduardo Rama Jr. said.
The event was organized by the City’s Local Small and Medium Scale Enterprise Development, the Department of Trade and Industry and the Junior Chamber International.
Also last Wednesday, the council approved the financial assistance requested by Cordova Mayor Arleigh Sitoy to defray the expenses for the clothing requirement and uniforms of the student volunteers.
Some 350 volunteers from various colleges and volunteers will assist in the registration, documentation and other relevant service during the summit conferences.
Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña already approved Sitoy’s request for P500,000.
