Capitol takes over animal hub

Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. confirmed yesterday that the Provincial Government will take possession of the controversial Negros First Animal Hub that was constructed at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City without a permit.

“I have already issued a memorandum for the takeover,” the governor said.

He said that the provincial government will allocate a budget for the completion of the building that erects on the property of the province.

Acting Provincial Administrator Lucille Gelvolea said there will be a procedure to follow for the takeover even if the facility was constructed and located at the Capitol property.

She said that the province won’t pay the contractor of the animal hub because the construction has no permit and did not follow any project construction procedure.

The province, she said, will assess first the extent of the construction to determine how much budget is needed to finish the building.

The allocation for the completion of the construction will be made by the province and because it involves construction, the normal bidding procedure will be conducted, she added.

“We will assess if the smaller amount will be allocated, small volume procurement could be applicable,” Gelvolea said.

Program of work and purchase request should be made for the completion of the project, she pointed out.

The controversial animal hub was discovered in March 2018 during the celebration of the Panaad Festival.

The province has cancelled the project that was supposed to cost P10 million.

Eva Reso-or who admitted to be responsible for the construction of the building admitted that she has not secured any permit from anybody in the province.

She said she takes full responsibility for its construction.

Meanwhile, Marañon, during the first flag ceremony for 2019 yesterday, encouraged the Capitol employees to do their respective shares to solve the problems faced by the province and the entire country as well.

“We have to thank the good Lord Almighty for a great year for us in 2018. You should have a collective New Year’s resolution to improve or surpass our previous records. Maybe we can have more awards, the Seal of Good Governance and improve our services for the province. There is so much to be done in solving the huge problem that we are facing,” the governor said.

“If well do an extra mile and work harder, if we have the resolve to improve. We can achieve it if we have unity,” he added.*