Nueva Vizcaya OKs P292.8-M more budget for aid, health and infra projects

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Nueva Vizcaya has approved a P292.8-million supplemental budget to fund infrastructure projects and expand social services amid rising fuel prices and the ongoing national energy emergency.

The provincial board approved the additional budget during its 39^th regular session on Monday last week.

Board Member Eunice Galima-Gambol said the funds came from excess provincial collections, mainly mining tax revenues, and savings from the province’s 2025 beginning balance.

Governor Jose V. Gambito said P61 million will be used for social protection programs, including the “Bagas ti Umili” rice subsidy, Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation, and “Project GAYYEM” for vulnerable residents affected by inflation.

Another P65 million was allocated for healthcare services, including medicines, medical and laboratory supplies, dental services, and a hospital information system for provincial-run hospitals. The budget also includes funding for new hospital positions, cash-for-work, and livelihood programs.

Nueva Vizcaya also set aside P45 million for the purchase of dump trucks for barangays, P30 million for the upgrading of the Poblacion-Ambaguio-Labang-Nansiakan Road, and P40 million for land acquisition for a proposed engineering office motor pool and cultural center.

Mr. Gambito said the projects aim to provide immediate relief and support for long-term development. — Artemio A. Dumlao