Government budgets divert funds toward livelihood assistance programs to spur economic growth.
Revised Article:
The new livelihood initiatives proposed by the Cebu City Coastline Management Board (CMB) have hit a snag, as funding was slashed from the Cebu City Council's budget. An official from the CMB lamented that the lack of funds hinders the rollout of these projects, which include candle, liquid soap, and detergent production; food processing; traditional massage and wellness services; and footpath construction.
The budget cuts, affecting livelihood programs, are reportedly at odds with resolutions approved by council members not aligned with Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia.
After much debate, the City Council approved a P587 million first supplementary budget (SB1) on March 26, 2025. Regrettably, the initial P80 million earmarked for livelihood programs was missing from SB1. Funding for employee bonuses, road asphalting, and the completion of the Cebu City Medical Center were, however, approved.
CMB Chairman Ed Karlon Rama spoke out about the impact of the cuts. He explained that training programs planned for 16 coastal barangays, scheduled from March to April, have been derailed due to the resolution's rejection in November 2024, which allocated P15.4 million for the programs.
Currently, the CMB finds itself at a standstill. "In 2025, we cannot move because we don't have livelihood projects," Chairman Rama admitted.
To alleviate the situation, the CMB has asked for funding assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment.
Without proper funding, the CMB is stuck. "We can't progress...without us having livelihood projects," Chairman Rama pointed out.
Potential Solutions
To overcome this setback, the CMB could re-evaluate its budget priorities, engage with council members to emphasize the significance of the projects, and explore alternative funding sources, such as national or international grants and private partnerships. Additionally, the CMB might rally public support for the programs and collaborate with other stakeholders to create a strong advocacy campaign. Lastly, they could seek support from other government agencies, such as the Department of Science and Technology, to explore partnerships and funding opportunities.
By taking these actions, the CMB could secure additional funding, rejuvenate stalled projects, and move forward with their important initiatives for the betterment of the community.
[Universal Note: The information presented in this article is solely for informational purposes and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should independently consult with experts before making decisions related to funding, budgeting, or financial matters.]
- The Cebu City Coastline Management Board (CMB) is seeking funding assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment to resume their stalled livelihood projects, which were affected by budget cuts in 2025.
- In light of the funding shortage, the CMB is contemplating re-evaluating their budget priorities, engaging with City Council members to emphasize the importance of the projects, and exploring alternative funding sources like national or international grants and private partnerships.
- To create a strong advocacy campaign for their programs, the CMB is considering rallying public support and collaborating with other stakeholders, such as the Department of Science and Technology, to explore partnerships and funding opportunities.
- By taking these actions, the Cebu City Coastline Management Board aims to secure additional funding, breathe new life into their stalled projects, and continue their initiatives to improve the community, including promoting outdoor-living, home-and-garden, and sustainable lifestyle projects in Cebu by 2025.
