In a decisive move to optimize the utilization of provincial funds, Governor Attorney Jose V. Gambito has instructed the heads of various offices within the provincial government to forego programs or projects that cannot be implemented within the year. Instead, the allocated budget will be redirected to fund other projects and programs that would directly benefit the Novo Vizcayanos.

This directive was conveyed during the third-quarter Management Committee (ManCom) meeting held on July 29 at the Ammungan Hall which was attended by the department heads, chief of hospitals and division chiefs of the provincial government. Governor Gambito emphasized that this strategy aims to maintain the absorption capacity of the provincial government in terms of fund utilization. He assured that the deferred projects could still be funded in 2025.

According to a report from the Provincial Planning and Development Office, headed by Provincial Planning Officer Engr. Edgardo Sabado, approximately PHP 20 million worth of projects under the 20% Development Fund have yet to be implemented. These include several infrastructure projects such as the construction of a waiting area at the Provincial Health Office, upgrading of the diagnostic building, rehabilitation of the halfway home for women and girls, and the establishment of a special drug center at the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office.

One of the reasons cited for the delay is the lack of completed programs of work for these projects, which is attributed to a shortage of personnel needed to carry out these tasks. In response, Governor Gambito has also ordered the immediate hiring of additional human resources to expedite the preparation of the necessary programs of work.

“We must ensure that the funds allocated for the development of our province are utilized effectively and efficiently to benefit our constituents,” said Governor Gambito. “If additional human resources are needed to accomplish this, we must act swiftly to address the issue.”

This proactive approach by the provincial government aims to ensure that the allocated funds are used to their fullest potential, contributing to the immediate needs and welfare of the people of Nueva Vizcaya. /RMI

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