BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
More than P60 million worth of roofing materials have been distributed by the provincial government to thousands of typhoon-affected victims in Negros Occidental, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson disclosed yesterday.
The 2,486 residents of Hinigaran town were the last recipients of roofing materialsworth P14.9 million, and banana seedlings, as Comelec disallows continued distribution, in line with the May 9 elections as the campaign period for local candidates starts today.
If there is more to give after the election period, we will continue to give, Lacson, who yesterday led the distribution of roofing materials to Hinigaran typhoon victims,said.
The P90 million housing assistance of the National Housing Authority is expected to be distributed by the provincial government of Negros Occidental after the elections.
Still, Lacson hopes that NHA manages to secure an exemption from the Comelec with regard to the distribution of housing assistance.
“Just to be fair, if NHA allows us to distribute (P90 million assistance), I will not be present, so that I will not be accused of taking advantage of the resources of NHA for my campaign”, re-electionist Gov. Lacson said.
On the other hand, Lacson also raised the possibility that the election period may also affect their COVID-19 vaccination campaign, as incumbent local officials may focus on their campaigns.
It is possible that in some local government units, the provincial government will continue the vaccination, he said.
But Lacson said he is hoping that LGUs will give time for vaccination.*
