The Provincial Development Council of Negros Oriental failed to approve several projects during its executive committee yesterday when a member sought deferment of action on the proposals for “further study”.

The PDC execom was convened by Gov. Roel Degamo to tackle project proposals including the approval of the feasibility study on the proposed construction of a four-storey central block building at the compound of the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital.

Deferment was requested by Board Member Arnolfo Teves Jr. who said he wanted to make a further study of the proposal, although the item had been received by his office almost a month ago.

Teves also vehemently objected to the request of the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office for funding of the livelihood assistance on organic farming and system on Rice Intensification Technology demonstration project worth P5 million.

Degamo insisted that the proposal should be endorsed to the Provincial Board for approval to address the food security concerns of the province. However, Teves questioned the cost of the innoculant and the necessity of the project.

The governor said Teves’ opposition is without basis as he failed to provide the cost that is correct for him.

Degamo directed provincial agriculturist, Greg Paltinca, to discuss with Teves the pricing and the importance of the program.

Former board member, Arturo Umbac, who sits in the PDC execom representing the private sector, said he lamented the bickering and too much delving on technicalities and legalities when their function as PDC execom members is merely recommendatory.

It is up to the provincial board whether to approve or reject such proposals, he pointed out.

Teves said he is not against the project per se, but on its high cost.

Approved during the PDC execom was the priority electrification and energization projects for funding under the 80 percent Royalty Tax amounting to P9.175 million. These are in Barangay Canaway, Siaton worth P1 million; another P8 million in barangays Villasol and Kalamtokan in Bayawan City; and in Dagbasan Mabinay at P175,000.

It also deferred action on the proposed electrification project in Tinaogan, Bindoy, Narra in Bayawan and Pitogo in La Libertad because the item was submitted late.*JG

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