DRAINAGE Council to probe project implementation in Apas

The Cebu City Council will hold an executive session tomorrow to discuss the alleged involvement of a private individual in a P5.6-million drainage project funded by the National Government.

Officials of Barangay Apas requested the council that an investigation be conducted on how the project was channeled through Ma. Linda Parcuelles, who was reportedly not an accountable officer of the barangay.

They also alleged that the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), which funded the project, had transacted with Parcuelles without the coordination and knowledge of the Apas Barangay Council.

In an approved barangay resolution in November 2016, the Apas Barangay Council said that the DILG did not coordinate with the village.

Under the Local Government Code, they said agencies are required to ensure the participation of local government units in the planning and implementation of national projects.

Residents of Sitio Mahayahay, where the project is being implemented, also lamented that they were not consulted about the project, which they called a“living threat.”

“The concerns of the residents are mainly about their safety and the health hazard that will be the result of the project in the future,” reads a portion of the barangay’s resolution.

The City Council has invited representatives of Apas, DILG and Parcuelles to tomorrow’s executive session. /