Deliberations on Capitol’s 2026 budget moved

Local

CEBU Provincial Government's P11.9-billion budget for 2026 hits a temporary roadblock as lawmakers paused final approval.

The Provincial Board postponed the third and final reading of the proposed 2026 budget on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, agreeing to reopen the spending plan for amendments after concerns were raised by the executive branch.

The decision ensures that all provisions comply with national budget rules and follow proper procedures, allowing the province to fully utilize its funds once approved.

Board Member Celestino “Tining” Martinez III, chair of the Committee on Budget and Appropriations and sponsor of the budget measure, explained that earlier discussions with the executive branch revealed inconsistencies and wording issues in several line items.

These issues needed clarification to meet the standards set by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and align with existing laws.

Vice Governor Glenn Soco revised the session agenda to formally defer the budget’s final reading, a motion that received unanimous support from the board.

A key concern involved lump-sum subsidies intended for local government units affected by floods and earthquakes.

While funds were allocated for disaster response, the proposed ordinance did not specify which towns or cities would receive the money, a requirement under existing jurisprudence.

Martinez said that once the executive branch finalizes the list of beneficiaries, the allocations will return to the board for approval.

During committee review, lawmakers recommended adjustments totaling over P179 million across several offices.

The revisions were designed to strengthen funding for

priority programs, particularly health services, infrastructure projects, and disaster preparedness.

A budget of P14.5 million was earmarked specifically for disaster response equipment, recognizing the province’s need for tools to safely demolish unsafe structures after recent earthquakes.

Other items, such as seedlings and fingerlings, were transferred to agriculture offices to better support farming programs.

Tourism-related expenditures were also reviewed.

A P43-million allocation for foreign and local travel was retained at the executive branch’s request, citing potential participation in ASEAN-related activities.

Provisions on casual employees were consolidated under a revised section of the ordinance to prevent misinterpretation and ensure proper implementation.

The amended budget continues to draw nearly P11.97 billion from the General Fund to cover provincial operations, including hospitals, bus terminals, and the inter-LGU waterworks system.

One notable addition formally incorporates the Annual Investment Program and other supporting documents into the ordinance, aligning it with DBM standards.

Martinez emphasized that reopening the budget does not mean rejection. Rather, it reflects careful coordination with the executive branch to improve clarity and ensure proper implementation.

Lawmakers noted that reviewing the allocations now will help avoid potential legal complications later, which could delay disbursement or limit how funds are used.

Under the Local Government Code, provincial budgets must be approved within specific deadlines.

If a new budget is not passed within 90 days of the start of the fiscal year, the previous year’s budget is automatically reenacted, covering only essential expenditures.

By reopening the 2026 budget for review, lawmakers aim to prevent such complications and ensure all programs are fully funded from the start of the year.

The board has scheduled another special session for Thursday, January 8, to complete final proofreading, review the amendments, and proceed with the third and final reading.

Once approved, the revised budget will give Governor Pamela Baricuatro and her administration clearer authority to implement programs while keeping the spending plan compliant with national rules.(MyTVCebu)