Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia warned that over 90,000 senior citizens, 14,000 persons with disabilities, and medical beneficiaries risk losing vital assistance if the City Council fails to approve a resolution seeking exemption from a Commission on Elections (Comelec) ruling.
The resolution aims to bypass restrictions under Comelec Resolution 11060, which prohibits fund disbursements 45 days before elections.
Garcia emphasized the urgency of securing the exemption to avoid disruptions in social services like the City Hospitalization Medicines Program, senior citizens’ quarterly aid, and burial assistance.
The council deferred the resolution due to concerns over vague details and documentation requirements, which Councilor Rey Gealon plans to address.
With a Feb. 11 deadline looming, Garcia urged the council to act swiftly to prevent negative impacts on vulnerable sectors.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 18, 2025
