ZAMBOANGA City Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar and the finance committee on Tuesday, June 11, spearheaded the Executive Budget Forum, as city department heads, division chiefs and administrative officers prepare their individual budget proposals for 2020.
The forum, which was also attended by representatives from the civil society, is among the initial process in budget preparation leading to the conduct of budget hearings and the eventual submission of the proposal to the Sangguniang Panlungsod for consideration.
Salazar said the same forum aids and guides the city officials in the preparation of the budget proposals which should include programs and projects that complement her flagship program.
The mayor, in her message, appealed to all present to help her make a difference and make Zamboanga City successful in the next 36 months which comprise her third term in office.
She urged them to persist and not to give up despite the challenges.
“I ask all of you today, this is the 36 months that I have to make a difference and I ask you all to help me make Zamboanga successful,” Salazar said as she vowed to be fiercer in the implementation “of all rules and regulations for as long as it will help the people of Zamboanga City.”
City Budget Officer Geraldine de la Paz said this city expects an increase in the 2020 budget based on local and external sources alone. ( Bong Garcia/SunStar Philippines)