Cebu Councilor Calls for Transparency in P153 Million Typhoon Relief Funds
Cebu City Councilor Pastor "Jun" Alcover Jr. has formally demanded a comprehensive and itemized report on the P153 million calamity funds utilized by the city government in response to Typhoon Tino. This move targets Mayor Nestor Archival's administration, seeking clarity on how the funds were allocated and disbursed following the declaration of a state of calamity.
Typhoon Tino's Impact and Fund Authorization
Typhoon Tino struck Cebu on November 4, bringing heavy rains, flash floods, landslides, widespread power outages, the evacuation of thousands of residents, and confirmed fatalities. In its aftermath, the Cebu City Council approved a state of calamity based on recommendations from the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. This declaration enabled the city to access P153 million from its Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF), which includes P120 million under the Quick Response Fund (QRF) and P33 million designated for the Relief and Recovery Assistance Fund.
Legal Basis and Oversight Powers
Councilor Alcover emphasized the oversight powers of the council under Sections 16 and 458 of the Local Government Code of 1991. He stressed that transparency and accountability are crucial in the use of public funds, especially during disaster situations. Alcover highlighted the need for detailed documentation to maintain public trust when city resources are mobilized for humanitarian purposes.
Specific Documentation Requests
The councilor has requested a full breakdown of projects, implementation status, and procurement documentation. This includes vouchers, contracts, purchase orders, and liquidation reports related to the calamity funds. Additionally, Alcover is pushing for complete accounting of external cash and in-kind donations received by the city government for Typhoon Tino relief efforts.
Response from City Officials
City Treasurer Emma Villarete disclosed that she has not yet received a copy of the formal request but assured that her office is prepared to present reports on funds received for Typhoon Tino operations. The demand underscores ongoing efforts to ensure that disaster response expenditures are properly monitored and justified, safeguarding public resources in times of crisis.
