Negros Occidental LGUs to receive P2-B aid under BBM program
LACSON
BACOLOD CITY – Local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental, including this highly-urbanized city, are set to receive more than P2 billion in financial assistance under the national government’s “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” (BBM) program.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson announced in a media interview on Monday, Feb. 23, that the total allocation for the province amounted to P2.044 billion and will be released through the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF).
Lacson said P342 million has been earmarked for the provincial government while the remaining will be distributed to this city and to 31 component cities and municipalities.
According to Lacson, the funds will be equally divided between two priority areas. Fifty percent will be used to support rice distribution programs, while the remaining half will finance local infrastructure projects.
Each LGU has been informed of their allocation computed by the national government.
Lacson said the program is inclusive. “The program is for all. We just have to upload—to let them know that we will take part in this BBM program.”
Negros Occidental third district Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez hosted a special briefing on the program on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the residence of his father, Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez.
Municipal and city mayors from across the province attended the meeting, along with former Eastern Samar Gov. Ben Evardone, who was tasked by the Office of the President to discuss the mechanics of the BBM program to local officials.
Lacson added that the province was the first visited by Evardone under the program due to the strong unity among its leaders and the absence of division between the governor’s office, congressional representatives, and local chief executives. “We should be happy about that impression from the national level,” he added.