Cebu Lawmaker Calls for Budget Realignment Toward Disaster Recovery
During ongoing budget deliberations for 2026, Cebu Provincial Board Member Celestino Martinez has strongly advocated for prioritizing disaster recovery and rehabilitation funds over tourism spending. This urgent appeal comes in response to the series of calamities that have recently struck the province, including a 6.9 magnitude earthquake in Northern Cebu and Typhoon Tino, which collectively claimed over 100 lives through flooding and structural damage.
Questioning Tourism Allocation Amid Crisis
In his privilege speech delivered on November 25, 2025, Martinez emphasized that the provincial government should direct resources toward rebuilding affected areas rather than extensive tourism promotions. Preliminary budget review sessions revealed that tourism receives approximately P101 million in proposed funding, with P73.5 million allocated for foreign travel and P28 million designated for the Suroy-Suroy Sugbo program.
Martinez questioned the timing of such substantial travel expenditures, stating, "I don't think it's time to travel now when we have so many damaged facilities. What can we promote abroad if our infrastructure remains compromised?" He noted that several board members shared concerns about focusing heavily on tourism while critical rehabilitation needs remain unmet.
Advocating for Evidence-Based Urban Planning
The board member stressed the importance of evidence-based urban planning and strategic resource allocation to guide Cebu's future development. He urged the provincial board to invest in rebuilding structures damaged by both the earthquake and recent flooding, arguing that tourism sites themselves require significant repairs before they can be effectively marketed.
Martinez also highlighted the need to strengthen social and health services while reducing dependence on national government assistance. "If we rely on other sources to help us, like the national government, we will be dependent on their actions," he explained, emphasizing the importance of provincial self-sufficiency in recovery efforts.
The budget deliberation process continues this week, with final approval expected from the provincial board soon. The outcome will determine whether Cebu's 2026 financial plan will reflect the shifted priorities toward comprehensive disaster recovery and infrastructure rehabilitation.
