The Cebu Provincial Board (PB), in its regular session on Monday, October 13, unanimously approved a resolution providing cash assistance and aid amounting to P10,000 each to all employees of the Cebu Provincial Government working in four Province-owned hospitals – Juan Dosado Memorial Hospital in Sogod, Daanbantayan District Hospital, Bantayan District Hospital, and Cebu Provincial Hospital in Bogo City, pushed by People’s Governor Pamela Baricuatro.
The resolution also includes employees whose residences are situated in hardest-hit local government units, particularly, Catmon, Sogod, Borbon, Tabogon, Tabuelan, San Remigio, Medellin, Daanbantayan, Bantayan, Madridejos, Santa Fe, and Bogo City.
The resolution, authored by PB Members Red Duterte and Stanley Caminero and co-authored by PB Member Raymond Calderon, stated that the Provincial Government recognizes the invaluable service and sacrifice of its employees, particularly those assigned to the provincial hospitals and the Cebu Provincial Capitol, who have rendered continuous and dedicated service despite the recent challenges brought about by disasters and other extraordinary circumstances affecting the Province.
The Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act No. 7160), particularly, Section 465 (b) (1) (vi), empowers the Provincial Governor to “carry out emergency measures during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters and calamities,” and Section 468(a)(1)(xi) authorizes the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to appropriate funds for specific purposes not otherwise provided for in the annual budget.
The resolution quoted that the Commission on Audit (COA), in its various circulars, has recognized that the grant of financial or cash assistance to government personnel may be allowed under exceptional or humanitarian circumstances, subject to proper appropriation and compliance with auditing and accounting rules. The current socio-economic challenges and public health concerns have placed significant strain on the welfare and well-being of government employees, especially those on the frontlines and in critical support roles.
“Whereas, it is deemed just and necessary to provide financial assistance to these employees as a humanitarian gesture, in recognition of their dedication, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to public service,” the resolution read.
Subject to the Capitol’s available funds, the P10,000 cash assistance serves as a token of the Province’s appreciation and compassion to the concerned employees and health workers to help them recover and meet their basic needs.
“The final list of beneficiaries of this assistance shall be prepared by the Human Resources Management Office (HRMO) of the Cebu Provincial Government, subject to the approval of the Office of the Governor,” the resolution added. /𝑪𝑨𝑷𝑰𝑻𝑶𝑳 𝑷𝑰𝑶
