Cebu (CNN Philippines, October 9) — Cebu province will focus on improving health facilities and road networks in 2024, following the approval of its Annual Investment Plan (AIP).
Around ₱3.5 billion of the ₱12 billion fund has been earmarked for the improvement and construction of hospitals and health facilities, as well as the acquisition of medical equipment for endemic and pandemic response programs.
This is one of the biggest items in the 2024 AIP that was approved during the Provincial Development Council meeting held last Oct. 6. The AIP is at least 20% of the annual budget of the local government.
Another ₱3.5 billion was set aside for the construction and improvement of roads and bridges in the province. The amount also includes the installation of solar street lights all over the island.
The AIP also provides ₱3.3 billion for the Water System Development Program pushed by Gov. Gwen Garcia.
Other items in the AIP include ₱500 million for the construction and improvement of buildings and other structures; ₱200 million for the construction of drainage and flood control projects; ₱150 million for the restoration of cultural heritage buildings, parks, and museums; ₱100 million for the acquisition of ambulance and emergency response vehicles; ₱350 million for the development of ports, seaports, and airports; and, ₱400 million for agricultural, veterinary, and environmental facilities.
The 2023 annual budget of Cebu Province is ₱20.15 billion. Garcia has yet to propose the province’s annual budget for 2024.
The governor said her administration would prioritize health as well as road projects which would further spur development in the countryside.
