The Palawan provincial government submitted its 2025 budget ordinance on January 24, after prolonged delays that sparked contentious debates and public appeals for urgent resolution.
The ₱5.3 billion annual budget, now awaiting Governor Dennis M. Socrates’ approval, had been stalled in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, a hold-up that officials say disrupted key government operations. Projects, programs, and even employee salaries were affected by the delayed passage, highlighting the budget’s far-reaching impact on public services.
Attorney Christian Jay Cojamco, the provincial government spokesperson, confirmed that the ordinance was submitted to the Administrator’s Office late last week. However, the weeks-long delay has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including the Catholic Church, whose senior bishop in Palawan urged officials to act swiftly for the benefit of the community.
Critics argue that the stalled budget is symptomatic of broader inefficiencies, while proponents assert that rigorous debate is essential for fiscal responsibility. For ordinary Palawenyos, however, the delay translates to stalled infrastructure projects, interrupted social programs, and uncertainty for government workers dependent on timely salaries.
While optimism grows for the budget’s approval, the incident has reignited discussions about the need for streamlined processes in local governance. Advocates for reform argue that mechanisms to expedite budget deliberations could help prevent similar disruptions in the future.
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