Minutes of Sangguniang Panlungsod Session

EXCERPTS FROM THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF OLONGAPO, HELD ON OCTOBER 07, 2009 AT THE CITY HALL

Present:

Hon. Cynthia G. Cajudo - - - - - - - - - - - City Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer

Hon. Gina G. Perez - - - - - - - - - - - - - - City Councilor

Hon. John Carlos G. Delos Reyes - - - - - - " "

Hon. Rodel S. Cerezo - - - - - - - - - - - - - - " "

Hon. Sarah Lugerna Lipumano-Garcia - - -" "

Hon. Angelito W. Baloy - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “

Hon. Edwin J. Piano - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -“ “

Hon. Aquilino Y. Cortez Jr. - - - - - - - - - - " "

Hon. Elena C. Dabu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - " "

Hon. Jonathan G. Manalo - - - - - - - - - - - " "

Hon. Cheenee F. Hoya - - - - - - - - - - - - -SK Federation President

Absent:

Hon. Anselmo A. Aquino - - - - - - - - - - - -City Councilor

Call to Order

The Presiding Officer Cynthia G. Cajudo called the session to order at 5:03 in the afternoon.

Roll Call

With nine (9) City Councilors and the Presiding Officer present, a quorum was declared. However, City Councilor Cheenee F. Hoya. arrived after the roll call.

The Presiding Officer recognized the presence of Mr. Tala, visitor from the American Samoa.

Reading and Adoption of Minutes

On motion of City Councilor Gina G. Perez, the Minutes of the Regular Sessions dated 9th and 16th of September, 2009, were unanimously approved and adopted by the members of the body.

Reading and Approval of the Day’s Agenda

Before the approval of the day’s agenda, Councilor Rodel S. Cerezo moved to dispense with the reading of the day’s agenda, since majority of the City Councilors already have their copies. The motion for the dispensation for the reading of the items on first and second readings was unanimously approved.

First Reading:

1. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-112 – A Resolution Authorizing The Honorable City Mayor James Gordon, Jr. To Enter Into A Contract Of Affiliation (COA) By And Between San Lazaro Hospital Represented By Its Chief Of Agency, Arturo Cabanban, M.D. And Gordon College For The Affiliation And Training Of Its Nursing Students. Sponsored by City Councilors Angelito W. Baloy and Jonathan G. Manalo. (Referred to The Committees on Health and on Education)

2. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-113 – A Resolution Authorizing Gordon College President Arlida M. Pame To Enter Into A Memorandum Of Agreement (MOA) By And Between Philippine Orthopedic Center Represented By Its Chief Of Hospital Teodoro R. Castro, M.D. And Gordon College For The Training Of Its Health Science Students In Fulfillment Of Their Course Requirements. Sponsored by City Councilors Angelito W. Baloy and Jonathan G. Manalo. (Referred to The Committees on Health and on Education)

3. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-114 – A Resolution Authorizing The Honorable City Mayor James Gordon, Jr. To Secure A Department Of Environment And Natural Resources (DENR) Bathing Permit For Mayanga Island And Other Islands Surrounding Or Within The Jurisdiction Of Olongapo City. Sponsored by City Councilor Gina G. Perez. (Referred to The Committee on Business)

4. Resolution No. 2009 R-115 – A Resolution Acknowledging The Accomplishments Of City Councilors Anselmo A. Aquino And Edwin J. Piano And Indorsing Them To The Philippine Councilors League Award For Three Termer Councilors 2007-2009. Sponsored by City Councilor Gina G. Perez. (Referred to The Committee as a Whole)

5. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-116 – A Resolution Endorsing Carmelita B. Yco As Officer-In-Charge Of Department Of The Interior And Local Government (DILG)-Olongapo In Lieu Of Permanent DILG Director. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano. (Referred to The Committee as a Whole)

6. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-117 – A Resolution Authorizing The City Mayor James Gordon, Jr. To Enter Into A Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) With The Farland Personnel Management Corporation, Represented By Mr. Rommel Asuncion For The Guam Build-Up Project. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano. (Referred to The Committee as a Whole)

7. Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-32 – An Ordinance Establishing The Title Of Olongapo City As “CITY OF VOLUNTEERS.” Sponsored by City Councilor Gina G. Perez. (Referred to The Committee as a Whole)

Second Reading:

1. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-088 – A Resolution Ratifying The Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) Entered Into By And Between The City Government Of Olongapo Represented By Mayor James Gordon, Jr. With LRC Manpower Corporation Internationale, Inc., Represented By Miss Ma. Lourdes Capua For The Guam Build-Up Project. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

2. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-094 – A Resolution Enjoining Local Government Units (LGUs), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) And NonGovernmental Organizations (NGOs) Around Subic Bay To Participate In The Creation Of Subic Bay Waterways Council And Support The Projects Thereto. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

3. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-100 – A Resolution Supporting The City Council For The Welfare And Protection Of Children And In Effect Designates The Early Childhood Care Development Officer (ECCDO) For Olongapo City. Sponsored by City Councilor Elena C. Dabu.

4. Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-29 – An Ordinance Instituting Olongapo Product Center In The City, Creating A Policy Making Body, Establishing A Program For The Selection, Quality, Preservation, Packaging And Promotion Of Authentic Local Products And Providing Funds Thereof. Sponsored by City Councilor Gina G. Perez.

5. Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-30 – An Ordinance Establishing Guidelines For Conferring The Title Of Adopted Son/Daughter Of Olongapo City. Sponsored by City Councilor Gina G. Perez.

6. Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-031 – An Ordinance Codifying All Significant Ordinances Passed By The Sangguniang Panlungsod Of Olongapo. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

7. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-108 – A Resolution Confirming The Renewal Of Temporary Appointment Of Mr. Dante P. Ramos As City Government Department Head II (ESMO) SG – 26. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

8. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-109 – A Resolution Confirming The Renewal Of Appointment Of Ms. Arlida M. Pame As City Government Department Head II (College President) SG-26. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

9. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-108 – A Resolution Confirming The Renewal Of Temporary Appointment Of Mr. Dante P. Ramos As City Government Head II (ESMO) SG-26. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

10. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-109 – A Resolution Confirming The Renewal Of The Appointment Of Mrs. Arlida M Pame As City Government Head II (College President) SG-26. Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

11. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-111 – A Resolution Authorizing The Charging Of Philippine Peso Equivalent Of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) As Fund Assistance/Mobilization For The 2010 Conference Of The Association Of Pacific Island Local Governments (APILG). Sponsored by City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

City Councilor Jonathan G. Manalo manifested for an additional item under First Reading, entitled “An Ordinance Reverting The Amount Of Php500,000.00 From The Items Under Maintenance And Other Operating Expenses To The Item Other Machineries And Equipment Under Capital Outlay Of The Olongapo City Mall.” (Referred to The Committee on Appropriations)

The Presiding Officer acknowledged the presence of the Council Secretary of Zambales.

With no other observations/comments, the members of the body unanimously adopted and approved the day’s agenda, as amended.

Communications and Referrals of Business

Communications Read:

1. Copy of Barangay Resolution No. 25, Series of 2009, of Brgy. West Bajac-Bajac, Olongapo City, entitled: “A Resolution Adopting R.A. 8980 Otherwise Known As “The Early Childhood Care And Development Act” For Full Implementation In Barangay West Bajac-Bajac.” (Referred to the Committee on Social Welfare)

2. Letter from Aurora M. Ramos, CSD Manager, Subicwater, addressed to the Hon. City Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. billing the amount of Eight Hundred Sixteen Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Five and 23/100 (Php816,755.23) for the September, 2009 water consumption of various local government accounts as herein attached. This excludes water bill arrears outstanding as of August 31, 2009 inclusive of interest amounting to Four Hundred Fifty Seven Million Seven Hundred Eighteen Thousand Nine Hundred Eighteen Pesos and 60/100 only (Php457,718,918.60). (Referred to the Committee on Appropriations)

3. First Indorsement from Hon. Mac Arnold D. Concepcion, SK Chairman, Barangay New Cabalan, Olongapo City, endorsing to the Office of the Punong Barangay Audie S. Sundiam the Letter of Reply of Barangay Treasurer Perla C. Jacinto dated September 28, 2009 to SK Memorandum No. SKNC 06-2009. For reference and immediate action. (Referred to the SK Federation President and to the Committee on Barangay Affairs)

4. Memorandum from Hon. Mac Arnold D. Concepcion, SK Chairman, Barangay New Cabalan, Olongapo City, to Perla C. Jacinto, Brgy. Treasurer, New Cabalan, this city, regarding the Reply To SK Memorandum No. SKNC 06-2009. The last paragraph of the memorandum states “you are hereby DIRECTED and ORDERED, within three (3) consecutive days from receipt hereof to comply with the SK Memorandum No. SKNC 06-2009 by providing us the CERTIFIED TRUE COPY OF THE DETAILED statements of the actual income and expenditures of the Sangguniang Kabataan for the period of January, 2009 to July, 2009. Failure to comply with the aforesaid period of time will constitute to a violation of the provisions of the stated applicable law.” (Referred to the SK Federation President and to the Committees on Barangay Affairs and on House Rules)

5. Letter from Austere A. Panadero, Undersecretary, Department of the Interior And Local Government, A. Francisco Gold Condominium II, EDSA corner Mapagmahal St., Diliman, Quezon City, addressed to City Mayor James Gordon, Jr., Attention: Vice Mayor Cynthia G. Cajudo, Office of the Vice Mayor, informing that the travel to Israel of Vice Mayor Cynthia G. Cajudo, this city, from September 13 to 22, 2009, as represented, to study the government structure of the said country, upon the invitation of Director Josh Keinstein, Knesset Christian Allies Caucus is hereby approved. The letter further states this authorization is subject to the following conditions pursuant to DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2001-52 dated May 08, 2001 as amended:

(1) That no expenses shall be borne by that City Government in connection with the travel herein authorized;

(2) That Vice-Mayor Cajudo has been properly cleared from money and property accountabilities and from any administrative charge or criminal case filed against her;

(3) That she shall submit a report, together with her recommendations, if any, within fifteen (15) working days after her return to her official station to your office, copy furnished, through channels, the Secretary of Interior and Local Government, Attn: the Undersecretary for Local Government/the Director, Bureau of Local Government Supervision.

It is further understood that this approval shall likewise be subject to the pertinent provisions of all laws, rules, and regulations. By authority of the Secretary, signed Austere A. Panadero, Undersecretary. Attached is Vice-Mayor Cajudo’s official travel report.

(For information)

6. Letter from the City Mayor James Gordon, Jr. addressed to the Hon. City Vice Mayor Cynthia G. Cajudo and Members requesting the Sangguniang Panlungsod to consider an ordinance reverting the amount of Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (Php500,000.00) from the item Loans Payable under Maintenance & Other Operating Expenses to the item Other Machineries & Equipment under Capital Outlay of the Olongapo City Mall. This is certified by the City Mayor, as urgent.

Hon. Cynthia G. Cajudo

Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer

And Members

Sangguniang Panlungsod

Olongapo City

Gentlemen and Mesdames:

May I request the Sangguniang Panlungsod to consider an ordinance reverting the amount of FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (Php500,000.00) from the item Loans Payable under Maintenance & Other Operating Expenses to the item Other Machineries & Equipment under Capital Outlay of the Olongapo City Mall.

The memorandum of Mr. Honorio Gomez, Mall Administrator, dated 29 September 2009 shall be made an integral part of his request.

In accordance with the rules of the Sannguniang Panlungsod, I hereby certify to the urgency of this Ordinance.

Very truly yours,

(SGD.) JAMES GORDON, JR.

City Mayor

(Referred to the Committee on Appropriations)

7. First Endorsement from the City Mayor to this body the copies of Gordon College Board of Trustees Resolutions: Approving the candidates for graduation, academic year 2008-2009; Accepting Atty. Bernadine S. Gantan as member of the Board of Trustees; Granting incentive to top ten (10) examinees of Gordon College in any licensure examination, and Recommending the change of signatory of the Land Bank Account of Gordon College from Mr. Arvin Esposo to Mr. Marcelino D. Andawi, Olongapo City Treasurer. (Referred to the Committee on Education)

8. Memorandum issued by the City Administrator Ferdie M. Magrata to all Department Heads and Chief of Offices, this city, on the submission of City Employees Directory. It says here: “The Office of the City Mayor is currently updating the Directory of City Officials and Employees, including those appointed as consultants and under contracts of service and job-orders. In view of the foregoing, you are hereby directed to submit, in soft and hard-copies, the Employees Directory under your respective Departments/Offices, containing the following information: (1) name and actual position/designation (2) local and provincial address (3) telephone numbers (landline or cell phone) (4) email address, and (5) date and place of birth. Submit the aforesaid Directory to the Office of the City Mayor, through Ms. Mel Monje, copy furnished the Office of the City Administrator, on or before 15 October, 2009. For compliance, signed City Administrator Ferdie M. Magrata.” (Referred to the Council Secretary)

9. First Endorsement from the City Mayor to Hon. Cynthia G. Cajudo, Vice-Mayor and Presiding Officer and Members Sangguniang Panlungsod the copy of the Memorandum of Agreement entered into by and between the Subic Bay Development and Management Corporation (SBDMC) represented by its Corporate President, Jeff Lin, and the City Government of Olongapo represented by the City Mayor James Gordon, Jr. (Referred to the Committee on Environment)

10. Comment to Order dated October 02, 2009 a copy received by the counsel of the respondents on October 05, 2009 with opposition to motion for intervention on Administrative Case No. 06 (06-11-09) Sotero S. Dabu, et. al., complainants vs. Capt. Carlito A. Baloy, respondent. The dispositive portion says: “It is respectfully prayed that the motion for intervention be denied. After a final resolution of this issue, if the intervention is granted, the respondent RESERVES his right to file an Answer to the Complaint in Intervention, on a time as shall be hereafter granted and it is so respectfully prayed for. Notice of hearing to the Secretariat of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and the proposed intervenors. This pleading shall be be submitted for the resolution on October 15, 2009 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning. Submitted by Estanislao L. Cesa, Jr., Marc Raymund S. Cesa, and Maria Rosario S. Cesa, counsels for the respondent, and Alreuela B. Ortiz for the respondent. (For information of the City Councilors and referred to Ms. Gina Legaspi)

11. First Endorsement from the City Mayor to the body the attached copy of the Memorandum of Agreement to be entered into by and between Lyceum of Subic Bay, represented by Mr. Alfonso E. Borda, College President/CEO, and the Olongapo City Health Office, represented by the City Mayor.

12. Contract of Affiliation by and between Lyceum of Subic Bay, represented by Mr. Alfonso E. Borda, College President/CEO, and the Olongapo City Health Office, represented by the City Mayor. (Referred to the Committees on Education and on Health)

13. Letter from the Philippine Welding Society, addressed to Prof. Arlida M. Pame, regarding the 5th Japan Welding Engineering – Welding Engineer Training Course. They are inviting her to participate in the 5th Welding Engineers Training Course, to be held in Cebu City on October 19-24, 2009. This training is subsidized by the Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship (AOTS), and being implemented by the Japan Welding Engineering Society, thru the technical collaboration agreement with the Technical Adviser of the Japan Welding Engineering Society and Dr. Nobutaka Yurioka, Professor of Joining and Welding Research Institute, Osaka University. (For information and referred to the Committee on Education)

14. First Endorsement from the City Mayor dated October, 2009 forwarded to this body regarding the copy of the Memorandum of Agreement entered into by and between the LRC Manpower Services Internationale, Inc. represented by the City Mayor. According to our receiving Clerk Ms. Tess Geggenheimer, Ms. Mel of the Mayor’s Office advised her to hold this communication. (For notation for further discussion with the Mayor’s Office and referred to City Councilor Edwin J. Piano)

Committee Reports

City Councilor Gina G. Perez reported on the PCL NEO-NB or National Executive Officer - Board Officers Meeting and the 3rd Series of 2009 Continuing Legislative Education Program held on September 24, 25, and 26, 2009 at Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental and Siquijor Province.

In attendance were City Councilors Aquino, Cortez, Dabu, Manalo, Perez, and Piano. There was a lecture regarding the local response to climate change and general program policies of the city by Hon. Victoriano D. Alabastro and Hon. Clayborne Clyde Lein of PCL Bayawan City, Negros Oriental Chapter.

In the NEO-NB Officers Meeting, the agenda included reports from the regional, provincial, and the city chapters, the post activity report of Davao Oriental Federation on their 42nd Founding Anniversary on July 1st, the summary report regarding the first PCL Regional Congress on June 18-20, 2009, which includes their sportsfest, awarding of 3rd termer councilors, the PCL Zamboanga Del Norte 16 councilors report, and the Region IV-B assembly report.

Furthermore, the City Councilor apprised the body of the following: (1) there is an appeal to President Gloria Mcapagal-Arroyo to amend Executive Order 811; (2) the Joint Resolution No. 4, Series of 2009, submitted by Virac, Catanduanes Chapter; (3) a communication addressed to President Arroyo, the Senate, and the Congress to adopt a uniform date of implementation of Joint Resolution No. 4, which was submitted by the Valenzuela City Chapter; (4) a request to President Arroyo to issue an Executive Order directing the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) that the ‘Extra Gift and Collective Negotiation Agreement Incentive’ should not be subjected to the personnel services limitation of the LGUs; and (5) there was a request from the National Youth Commission to disseminate the Recognition Program for the ‘Gawad sa Kampeon ng Kabataang Pilipino 2009’ to PCL Members.

For the update on the Ten (10) Outstanding Councilors of the Philippines, City Councilor Perez said that the PCL and Philippine Jaycees signed a MOA on June 24, 2009 during the NEO-NB CLLEP in Davao City. The set deadline for submission of requirements for the nominees is on September 15, 2009. The City Councilor said that the city has nominated City Councilor Edwin Piano. Out of the seventeen (17) regional nominees, there will be ten (10) awardees for the First Quarter of 2010. Other awards include: (1) the Outstanding Sanggunian in Highly Urbanized Cities, in Independent Component Cities and in Component Cities; (2) the categories for the 1st and 3rd class, and 4th and 6th class municipalities. The DILG shall soon issued a Memorandum Circular about these for those LGUs interested to join; and (3) the Third-Termer Award. The City Councilor also mentioned that there is a PCL website.

In other matters, City Councilor Perez said that there was a MOA between the Philippine Councilors League and Basic Transport Management Corporation, the biggest taxi company in Metro Manila. The said MOA will ensure availability of taxi for the City Councilors who may need taxi service, which can just be notified via contact numbers. Also discussed was the next venue of the NEO-NB CLLEP on the fourth quarter which is at Ilo-Ilo City by the end of October.

For information, City Councilor Perez relayed the following: (1) City Councilor Leoncio Uy of Southern Leyte was elevated to the Vice-Mayor position and vacated the PCL Provincial Federation President position, so Vice-President Antonio Lubang took over; (2) invitation from Mother Earth Foundation for the Six Zero Waste International Dialogue on November 18-21, 2009 at Puerto Princesa City; (3) the Opening Program of the NEO-NB CLLEP was graced by Hon. Agustin R. Percides, Mayor of Dumaguete City, who was introduced by Hon. Manuel T. Sagarbarria, the PCL Vice-Chair for Visayas Island. Also present was Hon. Herminio G. Teves, the former Congressman of the 3rd District of Negros Oriental, in behalf of Hon. Margarito O. Teves, the Secretary of the Department of Finance, who was introduced by Hon. Karen F. Villanueva, the PCL City Chapter Board of Director; (4) The Bench-Marking Day Tour, where four options were offered. These includes Bais City, which has whales, dolphins, and marine sanctuary; Lake Balanan, which has a water reservoir, mountain ranges, and streams; Antulang Resort, a high-end beach resort with water sports activities, and Siquijor Island island tour, with a municipality visit, where the group had an itinerary. City Councilor Perez said that they did a courtesy visit to the Siquijor Municipal Hall with Mayor Quezon, made a rolling tour in Lazi and Mariam municipalities, stopped at San Isidro Labrador Church and Convent Museum, lunch at Salagabong Resort with Congressman Orlando B. Fua, rolling tour at Enrique Villanueva Municipality, and courtesy visit to Larena Municipal Hall with Mayor Gold Calibo. The closing program was headed by Hon. Emilio Macias III, the Governor of Negros Oriental, who was introduced by City Councilor Pete Ligan, the PCL Negros Oriental Provincial Federation President. The Hon. Herminio G. Teves, who was the former Governor and presently the 2nd District Representative, was also there. According to City Councilor Perez, for the observations and recommendations, PCL Olongapo City Chapter will submit a report regarding the successful conduct of the PCL Week Celebration and on the Poll Automation and Charter Change Forum. Officers are to convene and decide on the recognition activities and incentives for the tree-termer councilors, which was already put as an item in the First Reading. Furthermore, the City Councilor informed the body that there was a proposal for the NEO-NB CLLEP Activities to be held in Olongapo-Subic before the body ends its term. She said she will check on this if they can still carry this out.

City Councilor Gina Perez, likewise, reported about the forum during the PCL Week Celebration on September 17, 2009, held at the Olongapo City Convention Center. Said forum aimed to enlighten the constituents of Olongapo regarding the proposal to amend the 1987 Constitution, and about the computerization of the upcoming local and national elections on May 10, 2010. It was the local legislators, who initiated the said event, with the aim to provide the necessary information to equip the constituency regarding the aforesaid issues. The resource speakers invited were Mr. Rene B. Sarmiento who discussed the Poll Automation of the Commission on Elections. The City Councilor expressed her gladness that Mr. Sarmiento was able to come because during the PCL Dumaguete NEO-NB CLLEP, he was supposedly the speaker, but was changed at the last minute to Atty. Jeffrey Hernandez, who was also not able to attend, thus, the discussion on poll automation was cancelled. Another speaker, Hon. Riza Hontiveros-Baracle delivered a speech and presented the issue on why Charter Change should not be considered in the Lower Congress. For another topic, Hon. Victor Francisco Ortega discussed the Committee on Constitutional Amendments, the states report, accomplishments, as well as the advantages of amending the Philippine Constitution. Special guests in attendance were: Hon. Anne Marie Gordon, the Vice-Governor of the Province of Zambales; Hon. James Gordon, Jr., the Mayor of the City of Olongapo; Hon. Cynthia Cajudo, the City Vice-Mayor; Hon. Ramon Lacbain, the former Vice-Governor of Zambales; Hon. Wima Bilman, the Mayor of the Municipality of Castillejos, Zambales; and Hon. Rissie B. Villoria, the Vice-Mayor of the Municipality of Iba, Zambales. The Olongapo City Chapter Officers, who spearheaded the event, were: City Councilor Gina Perez, the Chapter President; Vice-President City Councilor Anselmo Aquino; Secretary-General City Councilor Edwin Piano; Auditor City Councilor Rodel Cerezo; Business Manager City Councilor Ellen Dabu; PRO City Councilor Jong Cortez; and Directors City Councilors Jonathan Manalo, Lugerna Lipumano-Garcia, and SK Federation President City Councilor Cheenee Hoya.

According to City Councilor Perez, the total number of attendees were one thousand six hundred eighty (1,680). From this, there were seventy-six (76) Barangay Chairmen and Officials, fourteen (14) District Heads, four hundred twenty (420) teachers from secondary schools, seven hundred eighty-three (783) teachers from the primary schools, five (5) teachers from different colleges, three hundred three (303) student leaders, thirteen (13) non-governmental organization officers, fifty-one (51) from Zambales Province, LGUs, and DepEd, and eleven (11) officers and staff from COMELEC Olongapo City. Other activities include the COMELEC satellite registration of new voters. Said registration started from 9:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. There were two hundred twenty-three (223) registered new voters as reported by COMELEC Officer Atty. Lydia Pangilinan.

Lastly, City Councilor Perez said she took advantage of continuing discussion on the nomination of city title , and the outcome were: the title “City of Volunteers” – 169 nominations; “City of Excellence” – 25 nominations, and “City of Peace and Order” – 1 vote.

Calendar of Business

1. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-088, entitled “A Resolution Ratifying The Memorandum Of Understanding (MOA) Entered Into By And Between The City Government Of Olongapo Represented By Mayor James Gordon, Jr. With LRC Manpower Corporation Internationale, Inc., Represented By Miss Ma. Lourdes Capua For The Guam Build-Up Project,” was tabled by the body, on motion of City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

2. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-094, entitled “A Resolution Enjoining Local Government Units (LGUs), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) And NonGovernmental Organizations (NGOs) Around Subic Bay To Participate In The Creation Of Subic Bay Waterways Council Support The Projects Thereto,” was deferred by the body, on motion of City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

3. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-100, entitled “A Resolution Supporting The City Council For The Welfare And Protection Of Children And In Effect Designates The Early Childhood Care Development Officer (ECCDO) For Olongapo City.” Sponsored by City Councilor Elena C. Dabu.

Upon the motion of City Councilor Elena Dabu, the Presiding Officer recognized the presence of the CSWDO Head, Mrs. Gene Eclarino, to answer queries about the proposed measure.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes said that since the title of the proposal is to convey support, which may mean they are not supportive of the said Council at start the City Councilor asked how the body will support, through the resolution, the said City Council for the Welfare and Protection of Children.

City Councilor Dabu suggested to the body that the title can be: “A Resolution Expressing Support For The Programs Of The City Council For The Welfare And Protection Of Children,” instead of: “A Resolution Supporting The City Council For The Welfare And Protection Of Children And In Effect Designates The Early Childhood Care Development Officer (ECCDO) For Olongapo City.” The City Councilor informed that the said Council was long created, and that the reason for the proposed measure is to replace members who are no longer connected. She, likewise, informed the body that with regard to the membership of Brgy. Capt. Audie Sundiam which was observed by City Councilor Lipumano-Garcia, City Councilor Dabu said that the Liga ng mga Barangay President was already posted vacant since there was no confirmation yet for Brgy. Capt. Audie Sundiam.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes pointed that it is presumed that the body supports all the projects of the city and to express support for the proposed measure was a general statement, and might render the proposed measure useless. The City Councilor suggested to be more specific on what the body needs to support in the said Council.

Ms. Gene Eclarino discussed that the Council for the Welfare of Children takes care of the children’s rights in four (4) components – survival, protection, participation, and development. In Survival, this is the provision of physical needs, such as in Feeding Programs, PhilHealth, and many others. Social Protection includes programs on curfew hours, programs for the CICL, and the like. In the Development aspect, there are trainings conducted in school, summer education, etc. Lastly, Participation is encouraging the children to participate in city activities, like in legal policies. She added that they would want the children’s voice be part in the policy planning and other activities that concern the children’s rights. Thus, Ms. Eclarino said that to further strengthen the Council legally, they need the Executive Order from the City Mayor, which was already done, and the purpose of the proposed resolution is for the Council programs to persist even with a different administration.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes reiterated that everybody is presumed to support the said Council, but after the measure is approved and signed by all, then, it will go to the department head. The City Councilor said that what he was looking for was a more specific or more particular need of the Council, which it doesn’t have at present, and which the body should support.

Ms. Gene Eclarino explained that she was designated as ECCD Officer, because the ECCD Program, being a pilot of the regional office was given budget, thus, a previous resolution was passed. She again said that what they used is an Executive Order signed by the City Mayor and a Resolution that shall give teeth to the Council, such that its programs will not get affected even after the incumbent City Mayor’s term ends. Mrs. Eclarino said that it will be an additional responsibility for her as the City Social Welfare Officer, but she is not requesting for another fee nor another position.

City Councilor Dabu apprised the body that the city won in the regional level of the “Most Child-Friendly City” competition, as well as in the national level, but only came in second to Makati City. The City Councilor stressed that legislations, such as the proposed measure, add points during evaluation. Ms. Eclarino added that one of the major requirements in the Child Friendly City competition is a Local Policy Legislation regarding this. She said that since the year 2001, the city was given the recognition as the Most Child Friendly City in the regional and national levels.

The Presiding Officer declared a recess.

RECESS: 5:55 P.M.

RESUMPTION: 6:12 P.M,

Draft Resolution No. 2009 R – 100 was approved by the body unanimously, in its second and final reading, on motion of City Councilor Elena C. Dabu.

4. Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-29, entitled “Ordinance Instituting Olongapo Product Center In The City, Creating A Policy Making Body, Establishing A Program For The Selection, Quality, Preservation, Packaging And Promotion Of Authentic Local Products And Providing Funds Thereof.”

City Councilor Gina Perez mentioned that the draft copy of the proposal was forwarded to the City Mayor and to the City Council Office, through Vice-Mayor Cynthia Cajudo, and the City Administrator and City Legal Officer on September 28, 2009, to solicit suggestions. Before the City Councilor motioned to open it for discussion, she first provided a brief background on the proposed measure.

According to City Councilor Gina G. Perez, Gawang Gapo Products Exhibit, started in CY 2004 and to date, there are already more than one hundred (100) products in the city. For Tourism matters, the city needs an authentic or product intrinsic in the locality, like the durian products of Davao, the mango and “danggit” products of Cebu City, and the peanuts of Bohol. For Olongapo City, the City Mayor is trying his best to come up with the city’s own local product. City Councilor Perez said that the proposed ordinance aims to have a clear procedure in the process of selecting out of the one hundred products, and how many of it should be chosen. Once the product(s) is/are chosen, the next step is to improve on its quality in terms of its outer features, its taste, smell, etc., and also in terms of preservation, storage, or viability to determine the length of time it can be displayed in the groceries or markets once launched. Packaging and promotion of the product(s) is/are also important and will also be in the objective of the proposed measure, just like the Mekeni and the Pampanga’s Best products in Pampanga.

The City Councilor stressed that it is the objective to really come out with an Olongapo product that the city will be later be known for, thus, a Gawang Gapo Board shall be created. In the proposal, the chairman of the said board will be the City Council Chairman on the Committee on Livelihood, instead of the City Mayor who has gargantuan tasks to do. For the vice-chairman, the DTI was placed, however, the City Administrator suggested that it is better if the City Council Chair on the Committee on Business and Trade is placed. The Members include the following: Livelihood and Cooperative Office, Business Permit Office, City Tourism Office, City Nutrition Officer, a representative from the Mayor’s Office, Small and Medium Enterprises, and the DTI.

According to City Councilor Perez, the said board will have the following functions: (1) Design the over-all plans and programs of the Gawang Gapo Product Center. This will be the area where enhancement of the products will be done. The Livelihood Training Center at Kalaklan recently inaugurated may also be used; (2) Formulate specific guidelines for the selection, preservation, packaging, and promotion of the local quality products. They shall convene and adopt the guidelines through a board meeting; (3) Evaluate the study proposals related to the Gawang Gapo products , and approve the effective ones after identifying timelines of its necessity; (4) Decide everything about the Gawang Gapo product in close coordination with the Local Chief Executive; and (5) Convene at least a quarter to monitor the progress of the said program.

City Councilor Perez further discussed that the City Legal Officer and the City Administrator queried if there will be an appropriation for the proposal. The City Councilor said that what she placed was a budgetary requirement, instead of an appropriation because there was already fund allotted for the Livelihood Office, thus, additional funding may be difficult to ask. So, in the proposal, donations and support, whether in cash or in kind from various groups and individuals, will be accumulated and will be directly spent and accounted, specifically for the Gawang Gapo Product enhancement through the said program. This means that it will only use the funds from donations, such that the city will not be appropriating an additional amount.

After the explanation, City Councilor Perez moved for the discussion of the proposed measure and asked for suggestions from the body.

City Councilor Gie Baloy asked the proponent if the product producers were also consulted regarding the proposed ordinance. City Councilor Perez said she did not see the need to consult them at that point, since with the approval of the proposed ordinance, the Gawang Gapo Board shall be created. It is the said board which shall meet the Gawang Gapo Product Makers, because they will be the ones to screen the products and study what are needed to be given focused on the product/s.

Councilor Lipumano-Garcia asked the Chairman of the Committee on Livelihood on what she thinks of the proposed measure. City Councilor Elena Dabu replied that City Councilor Gina Perez already talked to her even before the proposed measure was put in the agenda of the City Council Regular Session. She added that the topic was also discussed at the caucus with the City Mayor. The City Councilor mentioned that according to the City Mayor, the proposed measure was referred to different departments such as the Budget, Legal, Administrator’s, and the Livelihood and Cooperative Development Offices. She said that as far as she knows, Senator Dick Gordon donated a certain amount for livelihood, but she doesn’t know what the exact figure was. She now awaits the comment or answer of Ms. Aileen Cuevas Sanchez, the Officer-In-Charge of the Livelihood Office, regarding the proposed ordinance to see if there will be conflict with the existing programs. The City Councilor said she gathered from Melvin Malit of the Livelihood Office, that they are already helping the exhibitors in marketing, promotions, packaging, and labeling. So, her response to the City Councilor was that she awaits the comment that will come from Ms. Aileen Cuevas Sanchez.

The Presiding Officer informed the body that her office was already in receipt of the comments from Ms. Aileen Cuevas Sanchez and that each will be provided a copy.

City Councilor Perez said that she would like to solicit recommendations or suggestions from the Members of the City Council.

City Councilor Jong Cortez suggested that the proponent and the Committee on Livelihood study the giving of incentives to the producers in order to motivate them or to use the incentive for research and development. He likened it to the proposal of former City Councilor Marey Beth Marzan on giving incentives to schools in the amount of Php100,000.00 for those that will have improved results in their NAT and RAT.

City Councilor Gie Baloy commented on how the term ‘authentic’ was defined under Section III, Definition of Terms, of the proposed measure. He suggested to amend the part which read: “All ingredients must be grown in our jurisdiction and/or found within the territorial jurisdiction of our city,” because it may be hard to achieve. Another was in Section 7-Product Selection, on the part which read: “All existing Olongapo products shall be carefully screened by the Gawang Gapo Board, through a Board Resolution. The board shall choose a product as the Gawang Gapo, for the final approval of the Olongapo City Council.” City Councilor Gie Baloy asked the proponent if by the said process of screening, the products are already overly assessed or screened, because it requires final approval of the City Council.

In response to the first query of City Councilor Gie Baloy, City Councilor Perez explained that the reason why she defined the term ‘authentic’ as such because it is precisely the main point why one should try to develop a local product, it has to be sufficiently found in the locality, like durian, which is very common in Davao. The City Councilor said that we need to do research on our area, like for example Camias, which can be grown fast and cheap, and it can actually be grown in the city. In this manner, there will be less expenses since raw ingredients will not be imported from other localities. For her observations, the City Councilor learned the assorted chocolate products sold at the Gawang Gapo Product Booth at the City Hall ground floor were bought at Manila but were just molded and re-packed here in the city, thus, it cannot be considered as an authentic Olongapo product. She said to be “authentic,” it has to be uniquely and primarily sourced from a locality. However, City Councilor Perez considered to use the word ‘main’ instead of ‘all’ for the part which read: “All ingredients must be grown…”

For the second query regarding Section 7 – Product Selection, City Councilor Perez considered to remove the phrase “for final approval,” if that would be the pleasure of the body.

As additional information, City Councilor Jong Cortez said that the ‘walis’ usually bought in Baguio City is actually made in Bataan, and the vegetables sold at La Trinidad were actually from Nueva Ecija. The City Councilor said that the ‘walis’ was just identified in Baguio City. So, the city may also have a ‘walis’ made and have the name ‘Olongapo City’ placed on it, but in reality, it is made from Abucay.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes suggested that since the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council (SMEDC) has long been begging for a space from the City Mayor, the Gawang Gapo may share the office with the SMED Council. The Small and Medium Enterprise Development Act mandates that the local government do the same for them, that they be supported locally, for a space, which up to the present, they were complaining to have none.

The Presiding Officer said that the SMED Office used to be beside the PLEB Office. City Councilor JC Delos Reyes said there was none, and unlike in other cities, their SMED Office is very productive, which is also a showroom where all the indigenous products of the locality are showcased. The City Councilor suggested if they could amend the particular section to make a shared office. City Councilor Perez gladly accepted and noted all the suggestions.

Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-29 was deferred by the body, on motion of City Councilor Gina G. Perez.

5. Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-30, “An Ordinance Establishing Guidelines For Conferring The Title Of Adopted Son/Daughter Of Olongapo City.”

City Councilor Gina Perez first gave a background of the proposed measure. She said that the ‘Adopted Son/Daughter of Olongapo City’ has the same objective and rationale with that of the ‘Ambassador of Goodwill,’ but in the said measure, specific guidelines to declare individuals(s) as Adopted Son/Daughter’ is provided. Another purpose is for the city to convey its sincere appreciation, on behalf of its constituents, to people who have shown immense contribution and served as inspiration to the community.

For the qualification, the City Councilor said that the person endorsed should be of high moral character. The person contributed to the city by way of deed or endorsement, which benefited majority of the city’s population, and/or the individual showed the finest values which Olongapeños may emulate, a person with respectable name, reputation, and qualities, which Olongapeños would be proud of.

City Councilor Perez said that the procedures for the conferment process are: (a) submission of an indorsement letter from the city official, non-governmental organization, academic institution, business group, religious group, or any duly organized organization; (b) the indorsement shall include a comprehensive profile of the candidate with his/her major accomplishments justifying the said application; (c) all documents shall be forwarded to the Office of the City Mayor and/or to the City Council, for resolution, to be approved by at least majority of the Members; (d) once the resolution conferring the title is placed under the First Reading, the City Council Secretary shall immediately schedule a 5-day posting period to give opportunity to any duly organized group to express concern regarding the proposed declaration. City Councilor Perez requested the reactions and/or suggestions of her colleagues for this part of the process; and (e) if it will result to any apprehension on the side of the Members of the City Council, the proposal may be laid on the table until such time the issue is either clarified or considered invalid. When no concerns are raised on the Second Reading, during the deliberation, the City Council may approve the said proposal. The resolution conferring the title ‘Adopted Son/Daughter of Olongapo’ will be awarded during any occasion in front of an audience. As an added provision, the City Councilor said that the title shall be an eternal symbol of distinction bestowed to a person, unless withdrawn by the majority of the City Council Members, through a resolution, for any legitimate cause. Last, is the effectivity date of the said ordinance.

City Councilor Perez then motioned to open the topic for discussion.

City Councilor Edwin Piano said that since the measure is an ordinance, which is permanent in nature, he asked the proponent for the penal provisions to the City Council should it later on decide to bestow the title to individual/s that did not perfectly meet or fit all the requirements. City Councilor Perez replied that they should strictly follow the guidelines prescribed because it would be an embarrassment for the body if they will be the ones to bend the guidelines they proposed. This is why the City Councilor said she fervently requests suggestions from the body for the qualifications they need to set. As a follow-up comment, City Councilor Piano said that the 5-day posting period may be very short because NGOs usually meet once a month. He then suggested to give at least a month long posting period.

City Councilor Perez asked the body if they are all amenable to a 30-day posting period.

The Presiding Officer went back to the query of City Councilor Piano on what happens if the awardee did not follow the guidelines, more importantly after-the-fact that the recognition was already given.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes remarked that the body must know the objective of why they are implementing rules for adopting a person as ‘Adopted Son/Daughter of Olongapo’ because the said person/s did a lot of good and ought to be emulated by the community. This is the reason why honor and recognition is given and it is right that they should be strict on the guidelines. For any deviation on these, the title may be revoked.

The Presiding Officer asked if this can be done. City Councilor Perez affirmed and re-read the part of the provision stating that the title may be withdrawn.

The Presiding Officer declared a recess.

RECESS: 6:35 P.M.

RESUMPTION: 6:40 P.M.

Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-30 was approved by the body unanimously as amended, in its second and final reading, on Motion of City Councilor Gina G. Perez.

The City Councilor mentioned the amendments suggested by the Members, which includes the following: (1) in the conferment process, together with the comprehensive profile of the awardee, necessary legal documents, like NBI clearance or any other background information, shall be attached; (2) when the documents are forwarded to the Office of the City Mayor, the City Council shall likewise be given a copy; (3) the posting period shall be thirty (30) days; (4) during the awarding of the title, the symbol of the city shall be handed over to the “Adopted Son/Daughter;’ and (5) in the miscellaneous provisions, the adopted son/daughter of Olongapo City shall be invited on all major activities of the city.

City Councilor Piano suggested to insert before the phrase ‘legal documents’ the words ‘original or authenticated.’

6. Draft Ordinance No. 2009 O-031, entitled “An Ordinance Codifying All Significant Ordinances Passed By The Sangguniang Panlungsod Of Olongapo,” was deferred by the body, on motion of City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

The City Councilor manifested that during the previous Regular Session, he requested that the title be amended to read as: “An Ordinance Establishing The Olongapo City Code Of General Ordinances.”

The Presiding Officer requested to amend the title.

7. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-108, entitled “A Resolution Confirming The Renewal Of Temporary Appointment Of Mr. Dante P. Ramos As City Government Department Head II (ESMO) SG – 26,” was deferred by the body, on motion of City Councilor Edwin J. Piano, since Mr. Dante Ramos was out of the country at that time, and the body would like to have the resolution confirming his appointment at the time when the concerned individual is present, in case there will be questions to be asked to the appointee.

8. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-109, entitled “A Resolution Confirming The Renewal Of Appointment Of Ms. Arlida M. Pame As City Government Department Head II (College President) SG-26.”

The Presiding Officer recognized the presence of Dr. Arlida Pame, on motion of City Councilor Edwin Piano.

City Councilor Lipumano-Garcia asked Dr. Pame why board resolutions are forwarded late. Dr. Pame asked if it was about the Bataan General Hospital, or the board resolutions for adoption. City Councilor Lipumano-Garcia said that there were a number of it.

In 2006, according to Dr, Pame, during the term of City Councilor Marey Beth, the former City Councilor informed her to just provide a copy of the BOT resolutions for adoption without the need to write a letter of request for indorsement. It was directly placed in the agenda. With the change of Committee Chair, they presumed that the said system still holds. After they found out that the BOT resolutions are no longer placed in the agenda, they then started to write a letter of request.

City Councilor Manalo suggested that to be in consonance with the correct process, after a board resolution is approved, this should be endorsed to the Mayor’s Office, and then the City Mayor will endorse it to the City Council, since the City Mayor is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Gordon College. The City Councilor further pointed that work becomes more difficult when the board resolutions compile before endorsement. Dr. Pame noted the suggestion and said that they have been doing this already since 2007.

City Councilor Jong Cortez requested for the board resolutions on affiliations of nursing and midwifery students be forwarded immediately to the City Council for indorsement or approval, in order not to be the reason for non-graduation of students. Dr. Pame said that they were aware of this and as regards to the tracking of the indorsements, they need to follow-up over and over to hasten the process of its endorsement to the City Council. He said that the Bataan documents were done in May and the San Lazaro in June.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes asked Dr. Pame, to tell them why they ought to confirm her once again. Dr. Pame expressed that first, she considered herself qualified for the position. She said that her administration is doing its best to improve the college, despite the fact that the college no longer receive subsidy from the city government. They have become self-sustaining. The enrollment improved from 1,400 to 2,400 and they already have graduate programs and will open more courses the coming school year.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes asked for the three (3) best things she did for the college and to be particular in it. Dr. Pame answered that first thing was how to manage very meager resources to be able to operate normally and come up with programs that would recognize Gordon College as a “Higher Education.”

Councilor JC Delos Reyes then asked Dr. Pame regarding the college’s relationship with CHED. Dr. Pame said there was no problem, and in fact, Gordon College is being used as a baseline for new colleges that recently opened.

The City Councilor mentioned that he was invited to speak before the Catholic Educators Association of the Philippines, and to the query on should the local government create their own colleges and compete with the private sector, he did not know how to answer it, thus, he solicited the opinion of Dr. Pame on this. In response, Dr. Pame told the body that local colleges do not compete with private colleges and universities, since tuition fee rates in private institutions are very high. The local colleges and universities, on the other hand, provide the educational needs of the lower sector of the society. According to her, the Gordon College has 2,460 students at present and they wanted to increase the number, however, what limits this are the qualifications which include passing the admission examination and the inadequacy of classrooms.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes asked Dr. Pame if she can definitely say that Gordon College is not a diploma mill. Dr. Pame stressed that this is not so, because the school ranked 22nd in the list of top performing nursing schools. This, she said, can be attributed to the high selection process standard for their admission. Next is because they hire qualified faculty members. Last are the support of the City Council, the City Mayor, the local government, and the support of all.

For another query, City Councilor Gina Perez inquired on the status of their request for a feasibility study by the City Mayor to open a Tourism course. She gathered from a parent who wanted to enroll her son/daughter that the tuition fee for such course is really high, since it includes fee for travel, which is part of the subject requirements. Dr. Pame said that the Tourism Management course was already approved, however, there were no enrollees, so they plan to market it on summer time.

City Councilor Gie Baloy asked why there was a report of delay in the salaries of the instructors. Dr. Pame admitted that there was a delay in the release of salaries of those under ‘Contract of Service,’ since contract was prepared only when enrollment was already stable. This was because the teaching load depended on the number of students enrolled in one block or section. Thus, they only prepared the contract a week after the opening of classes. Furthermore, even if they set deadline of enrollment, some students do not meet the deadline due to financial constraints, and said students were only able to attend classes on the second week.

As Chairman of the Committee on Education, City Councilor Manalo lauded Dr. Pame and said he thinks she is the best president of the Gordon College. The City Councilor remarked this is due to the following reasons: (1) it was in Dr. Pame’s initiative that the nursing students performed well in the board exams; (2) in her term, Gordon College had the highest number of enrollees; (3) some of the priority programs of the City mayor were accomplished, like the ‘Housekeeping’ program, and currently being worked out is the ‘Cooking’ program; (4) ‘talents’ were honed with the creation of the Marching Band and the theater group, which performed in the ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ show.

City Councilor Manalo also gave his observation regarding the affiliation concerns mentioned by City Councilor Cortez. The City Councilor said that in fairness with Dr. Pame, the process of hospital affiliation takes a while so be suggested to her that when they endorse or forward documents for approval by the City Council, it should already be complete, along with the updated information where to track the documents pending. Dr. Pame noted this.

Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-109 was approved by the body unanimously, in its second and final reading, on motion of City Councilor Edwin J. Piano.

9. Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-111, entitled “A Resolution Authorizing The Charging Of Philippine Peso Equivalent Of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) As Fund Assistance/Mobilization For The 2010 Conference Of The Association Of Pacific Island Local Governments (APILG).”

City Councilor Edwin Piano gave a background of the proposed measure. He said that the City of Olongapo was selected by the Association of Pacific Island Local Governments to be the venue of the 3rd Mayors Conference and one of the requirements was to allot a seed money, in the amount of $10,000.00, to be used by the secretariat, for mobilization, and for all necessary expenses in the preparation. This in turn may be returned through the registration fees, the profits of businessmen, and the sponsorship/s that may be drawn. It is, however, a requirement of the COA to pass a resolution to the effect that the body authorizes the charging. The City Councilor apprised the body that the fund, equivalent to $10,000.00, came from the already approved budget fund assistance. He then opened the topic for discussion of the body.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes asked if the measure was simply transferring of funds from one source to the said particular expenditure, and not an appropriation ordinance. The Presiding Officer answered that it is not an appropriation ordinance. It is authorizing the Philippine peso equivalent to $10,000.00 for the Pacific Island Governments Conference. She then asked the proponent for clarification if the said case is like the fund is available but they will be authorizing the use of it for that purpose. City Councilor Piano affirmed.

City Councilor JC Delos Reyes queried if the body would just approve the proposed measure so as not to be accused of technical malversation. City Councilor Piano said he was not sure what the answer was to it. Then the Presiding Officer suggested to just mention that it will be subject to auditing and accounting rules and regulations. In addition, City Councilor JC Delos Reyes suggested to put the source of fund in the title.

City Councilor Piano took note of the suggestions and asked permission to invite the Budget Officer to shed light and assure the Members of the City Council about the source of fund, so that they can clearly state this in the resolution. According to the City Councilor, the Budget Officer already explained during the Majority caucus that the amount would come from a particular item on the budget, in the fund assistance/donations, but the City Councilor would not just like the body to hear it straight from the Budget Officer.

The Presiding Officer declared a recess.

RECESS: 7:05 P.M.

RESUMPTION: 7:10 P.M.

After the explanation of the City Budget Officer, Draft Resolution No. 2009 R-111 was approved by the body unanimously, in its second and final reading, on motion of City Councilor Edwin J. Piano, with the additional whereas that states it shall be subject to usual accounting rules and regulations.

Other Matters

A. Draft Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance Reverting The Amount Of Php500,000.00 From The Items Under Maintenance And Other Operating Expenses To The Item Other Machineries And Equipment Under Capital Outlay Of The Olongapo City Mall,” was considered by the body as an urgent matter, on motion of City Councilor Jonathan Manalo, as certified by the body.

City Councilor Manalo informed the body that there was a letter request dated September 29, 2009 from the Mall Administrator, Mr. Honorio Gomez, for reversion of fund. The amount of Php500,000.00 will be used for the procurement of the evaporative air-conditioner, called IWATA, and for other equipments of the mall. The City Councilor mentioned that everybody was well aware that the mall has an air-conditioning problem.

The Draft Ordinance was approved by a majority vote from the body, on motion of City Councilor Jonathan G. Manalo.

Nine (9) Members voted in favor and one (1) opposed.

B. City Councilor JC Delos Reyes commented and suggested that for the succeeding Regular Sessions, they should start at 4:00 P.M. He requested everybody to be present before the said time.

Adjournment

There being no further matters to be discussed, the session was adjourned at 7:15 in the evening, on motion of City Councilor Rodel S. Cerezo.

I HEREBY CERTIFY TO THE

CORRECTNESS OF THE FOREGOING:

ELFLIDA S. SALMON

Council Secretary

ATTEST:

CYNTHIA G. CAJUDO

Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer