Earthquake assistance under the Bohol Earthquake Assistance (BEA) funds were held back due to the recent elections to avoid accusations of partisanship.
This was disclosed by Jagna Mayor Fortunato Abrenilla to DYRD “Inyong Alagad” this morning, Tuesday, May 31, 2016 after listed beneficiaries of the earthquake assistance fund coursed their concern thru the program over the delay of fund release.
According to Abrenilla, the 1st tranche has been released amounting to some P30 million while the 2nd tranche will soon be release pending compliance of requirements.
Abrenilla denounced the imposition of a 45 day ban before and after election on the release of funds for public works that started on March 25 to June 23, 2016
“I don’t know the rationale behind the 45 day ban. There should be an exception if it is a continuing project”.
The Comelec prohibits agencies from pursuing actions for infrastructure projects 45 days before and after a local election as mandated by the Omnibus Election Code.
The 2nd tranche amounting to P30 million is now awaiting release by the Office of Civil Defense, according to Abrenilla. (Chito M. Visarra)