BACOLOD City – The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) authorized Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia to “explore, discuss and negotiate” with the Department of Finance (DOF) or any other government financial institution so that several proposed projects in the city can be funded.
The Medium-term Development Fund Office of the DOF provides concessional financing and free technical assistance to local government units nationwide.
Among the proposed projects that need funding were the development of the Progreso Village Relocation Site and the Bacolod City College site, the construction the Bacolod MassKara Coliseum, several road and bridge development projects, construction of south and east terminals, and the installation of high-tech public safety measures.
The SP gave Leonardia the authority to outsource funds by passing a resolution on Wednesday.
Councilor Caesar Distrito, chairman of the SP committee on finance and appropriations, authored the resolution, which came in response to Leonardia’s request.
The mayor said the projects will “help spur the economic and social development of the city.”
He added that they will “provide livable and competitive relocation for informal settlers, promote sports, tourism and cultural development, address the need for quality education, and answer the peace and order concerns.”
Leonardia said the city government would also welcome donations and proposals from property owners in the city.
“There might be families that will be willing to donate. [We] are open to that,” he said./PN
