Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has expressed gratitude despite the Cebu City Council approving a reduced P14.6-billion budget for 2025, lower than his proposed P17.9 billion.
While acknowledging significant cuts to education, climate change initiatives, and economic recovery programs, Garcia remains optimistic about the city’s prospects.
The cuts include drastic reductions to the city’s free education supplies and livelihood programs, but Garcia reassured the public that efforts to support businesses and constituents affected by the pandemic and Typhoon Odette would continue.
Despite the reductions, the mayor hinted at possible adjustments and additional funding sources, including a supplemental budget.
Garcia also thanked the eight councilors who voted in favor of the budget and stated that the city would work with the approved allocation while remaining open to changes if necessary.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 2, 2025
