• THERESA MAE DULMAN
An investigation is being sought into how Barangay Villamonte spent its P300,000 Electric MassKara subsidy from the Bacolod city government, after its float entry was disqualified due to poor quality.
Councilor Al Victor Espino, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Laws, Ordinances, and Good Government, said Oct. 19 that the SP will conduct the investigation, noting the release of public funds from the city as subsidy.
He expressed disappointment over the incident. “Sadly, Villamonte…is my home barangay, I don’t know what happened. I have not yet talked with Capt. Rommel Flores but I am planning to.”
He said that smaller participating barangays successfully presented well-crafted floats despite receiving the same subsidy amount.
Espino reminded participating barangays to submit their official financial liquidation reports for the subsidies received.
Flores, in media reports, clarified that miscommunication and the delay in the release of subsidy were reasons behind the incident.
The Electric MassKara float showdown Oct. 16 was participated in by barangays 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, and Tangub, with the latter declared as champion.
The competition showcased the festival identities, cultural stories, and community pride of the participating barangays. | TMD
