Capiz to spend P1-M for Davao City trip

By: Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — The provincial government of Capiz will spend more or less P1 million for its three-day trip to Davao City for the Strategic Planning Seminar and Executive Legislative Agenda meeting on October 17-19, 2019.

This was confirmed by Provincial Administrator Dr. Edwin Monares who clarified that the funds were already programmed in each department of the provincial government.

Monares said 70 Capiz officials will attend the meeting, including the department heads and administrative officers.

He clarified reports that the trip includes a visit to Samal Island.

He stressed that the strategic planning could be held here but it needs to rent a bigger venue to accommodate the delegates.

Monares said the Davao City trip is not a junket as this will be fruitful and productive.

Aside from the Strategic Planning seminar and Executive Legislative Agenda (ELA), they will also hold a benchmarking session on tourism, eco tourism, computerization, Rescue 911 and other programs which were successfully implemented in Davao City.

Monares said that the funds to be used in the activities such as transportation expenses and hotel accommodation will not be wasted. He stressed that planning is very important for the program to be implemented

Several members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Capiz, including the vice governor, will not attend the seminar in Davao City.

Board members Jonathan Sonny Besa, Enrique Martin, Weldie Apolonario, Matt Hachuela, and Thea Faith Reyes said they cannot attend the meeting due to prior commitments.

Vice Gov. James Mitang Magbanua said he has a scheduled meeting with the national officials of an organization, thus he cannot join the Davao City meeting.

Magbanua said the budget for the Davao trip needs approval of the board.

Philippines Councilors’ League (PCL) president and ex-officio member Mitch Patricio will also not attend for the same reason.