Council investigates misuse of Cebu City's calamity funds

Cebu City officials are facing criticism over the use of calamity funds for rice distribution. Allegations suggest that the rice was given out in areas not declared as disaster-stricken, raising concerns about political motives ahead of the 2025 midterm elections. During a City Council session on March 19, Councilor Mary Ann de los Santos criticized the distribution program. She called it “undignified and questionable,” noting it seemed to benefit Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia's political party. The rice was distributed on March 11 in two barangays that were not under a state of calamity. De los Santos presented a video showing the rice being carelessly dumped from a truck. She raised questions about both the legality and intent behind the distribution. She emphasized the need for transparency and proper use of public funds. The rice was part of a large purchase from A1 Milling Corporation, costing over 49 million pesos. This purchase was meant for areas declared as disaster-stricken, but the most recent declaration only covered mountain barangays affected by the El Niño phenomenon. Councilor Nestor Archival Sr. called the rice distribution an “illegal act” with evident political ties, highlighting the mayor's name on shirts worn by the distributors. Other council members reported complaints about the quality of rice, with some sacks found to have mold and worms. In response to the situation, the City Council has demanded the Local Disaster Risk Reduction office to explain the use of calamity funds. The Department of General Services must also provide delivery receipts and a list of beneficiaries. Councilor Joel Garganera noted that recent state of calamity declarations require City Council approval. He pointed out that no such declarations have been made recently. A proposal was made for the Department of Social Welfare and Services to create clearer protocols to ensure fair aid distribution. Mayor Garcia has not yet publicly responded to the controversy. The situation adds to the tense political atmosphere in Cebu City as elections approach. Garcia faces strong competition from several challengers, including Councilor Archival and former Bureau of Customs chief Yogi Filemon Ruiz.