PORAC, Pampanga — Councilor Mike Tapang on Monday said other local government units in the province need not panic if ever their calamity fund is depleted.
This, after Tapang sponsored an ordinance authorizing the local chief executive to utilize the available resources of the municipal government without prejudice, by realigning other funds such as those from GAD, MOOE, Development and Community Funds, in the delivery of services to constituents during the duration of the enhanced community quarantine brought by Covid-19.
“In case the calamity fund intended for the whole duration of the lockdown is inadequate, the local chief executive could realign funds so as not to hamper the delivery of services to constituents and even the frontliners,” Tapang said.
Tapang said under DILG provisions, the realignment of funds from GAD, MOOE, Development and Community Funds is allowed by law.
“We have consulted with DILG provincial director Myrvi Favia regarding our ordinance and confirmed that such realignment is allowed by law,” he said.
Tapang is calling on other LGUs in this time of health emergency situation not to worry if the resources intended for the lockdown has depleted, for they can always realign funds for their constituents.
The ordinance also stated that the mayor is also authorized to release Barangay Aid to augment the budget in preventing, controlling, and managing Covid-19. In case the aid to the barangay fund is insufficient, the chief executive, from the funds sourced from realignments and adjustments, may further increase the amount given or assisted for barangays of Porac.
It is understood, he said, that all funds to be utilized under this ordinance shall be subject to existing laws particularly RA 9184, known as the Philippine Government Procurement Reform Act.
