Aklan Approves Counterpart Fund For PRDP

Aklan Approves Counterpart Fund For PRDP 

by Odon S. Bandiola

The Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan presided by Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo has approved the realignment of some P2.197 million from the unexpended appropriations in the 2014 annual budget. Specifically, it will fund programs and projects under the 20 percent IRA development fund. The money serves as the provincial counterpart for the implementation of agricultural programs to be funded by the Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) of the Department of Agriculture in Aklan. 

The realignment of funds was approved through Resolution No. 280, Series of 2014 passed by the Aklan SP during its 44th Regular Session on December 17, 2014.

Realigned are unexpended appropriations in the 2014 annual budget under the 20 percent IRA development fund for the Aklan Rivers Development project - P0.5 million, special program for employment of students - P0.480 million, livelihood assistance for NGOs/POs - P0.217 million and the PGEDECO livelihood projects - P0.5 million and P0.5 million intended for rubber tree plantation projects.

Initially submitted for funding by the PRDP by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist are agricultural projects like Native Chicken Restocking/Production and Marketing, Small-Scale Production of Coco-based Crude Oil and Copra Cakes and Oyster and Mussel Production and Marketing.

These projects will cost about P12.537 million. The total project cost will be shared by the Department of Agriculture in the amount of P2.005 million; World Bank - P6.017 million and the counterpart fund of the province, to include the equity from the beneficiaries.

The PRDP, funded by World Bank has already set aside some P110 million for the cement paving, widening and upgrading of the Banga-Libacao road. 

Due to the deplorable condition of Banga-Libacao road, farmers in the area are having difficulties transporting agricultural product from their farms to the market. Transportation fare from Libacao to Kalibo cost P100.00 per passenger. The improvement of the said road will hasten progress and development.  /MP