CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – Gov. Lilia Pineda asked the local government units (LGUs) to be resourceful in looking for ways and means for their priority projects and do not rely solely on their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA).
The appeal was made during the meeting of the provincial government with the members of the Pampanga Councilors’ League (PCL) attended by some Mayors and Vice Mayors.
Gov. Pineda said IRA dependence limits LGU from implementing necessary programs and projects for their constituents.
She said there are other ways to look for funding such as asking support from the government agencies, and entering into a partnership with private companies and institutions.
“Limited budget should not hinders you from instigating many projects. You have to be resourceful,” Pineda told.
The governor stressed that economic development and effective programs do not depend on how fat is the bank account of the municipality or city but on the management style, linkages and connections of the local officials.
“For your constituents, you have to be unabashed in asking support from the national government and high-ranking officials with budget,” she said.
Pineda urged them to enter into a public-private partnership (PPP) on some projects and adopt the PPP code that is being drafted in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
“You can also enter into partnership with some private entities. This will not only assure you of a projects but also possible profit for your municipality. But first formulate a PPP code for your locality,” said the governor.
BY JENNA LUMBANG
