The Cebu Provincial Board is poised to strip a significant P14 million allocation from the proposed 2026 budget of the Cebu People's Action Center (CPAC). This move follows a review that questioned the center's formal status as an official provincial office.
Budget Committee Recommends Funding Removal
During a review, the Provincial Board's Committee on Budget and Appropriations decided to recommend the removal of the CPAC's funding. The primary reason cited is that CPAC is not formally organized as a proper office or agency under the provincial capitol. The committee's report emphasized that the center appears to function merely to augment manpower for other departments needing additional staff.
The committee further clarified its stance, stating, "Given this circumstance, the funding that will be needed for the PPAs (Programs, Projects and Activities) which CPAC personnel will implement will have to be sourced from the implementing department's budget allocation." It was also noted that CPAC lacks Plantilla positions and currently operates with job order workers and volunteers.
Governor's Office Pushed for CPAC Funding
The Governor's office had initially earmarked the P14 million for CPAC in its proposed P11.9 billion budget for 2026. The center serves as a frontline office for provincial residents, handling complaints and requests for assistance. The broader provincial budget prioritizes healthcare services, infrastructure, disaster mitigation, and preparedness.
Final Decision Pending Second Reading
Board Member Celestino "Tining" Martinez III clarified that no budget cut has been finalized yet. The committee's report must still be approved during the Provincial Board's regular session. The crucial second reading and potential finalization are scheduled for Monday, December 22, 2025.
"We're just presenting our committee report. So if there's any reduction or finalize to be made, it has to be done during the 2nd reading," Martinez stated. This leaves the door open for debate and potential revision before the budget is officially passed.
