The P339.4 million supplemental budget number 4 of the province of Negros Occidental was unanimously approved yesterday by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on third and final reading, without question from its members.

Board Member Salvador Escalante, chairperson of the SP committee on Finance and Appropriations, said yesterday that P200 million has been earmarked for land banking purposes, such as the purchase of land for Capitol employees:

A P27 million counterpart fund of the provincial government to more than P500 million worth of Philippine Rural Development Projects in the hinterlands of Cadiz City, Toboso, Silay City, as well as in Pontevedra, Peace and Order Fund – P10 million, Negros First CyberCentre electricity, airconditioning and insurance expenses - P8.2 million, terminal leave benefits - P2.5 million, renovation of PEDIC office and Negosyo Center - P3 million, subsidy to LGUs – P15 million; grants and donations – P15 million, as well as for the purchase of equipment, payment of travel expenses , and for repair and maintenance.

The bulk of the P339.4 million was taken from the sale of Capitol prime property, and others from the reversion of accounts payable, retained earnings and funds from sale of bidding documents.

Escalante said the provincial government also proposes the swapping of lots at the Minoyan area in Murcia and Pana-ad in Bacolod City, which are now being occupied by Capitol employees, to properties to be purchased near Bacolod City.

This is in line with the proposed expansion of the Mambucal Mountain Resort in Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia, and the Panaad Park in Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City, in the near future, he added.*GPB

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