The 10th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Ilocos Norte passed two provincial resolutions on RA 7171 on 2nd and Final Readings during their recent Regular Session.
The aforesaid resolutions sought the Department of Budget and Management’s approval to release the share of the province in the RA 7171’s Excise Tax of Virginia and Burley Tobacco in the years 2014 and 2015.
According to the Chairman of the Committee on Finance and Appropriation Vicentito Lazo, the two SP’s resolutions were part of the necessary requirements for the DBM to release the funds.
Records show that the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte’s share from the excise tax of tobacco in the year 2014 and 2015 is more than Php512 million and more than Php364 million, respectively.
The list of proposed programs, projects and activities was likewise incorporated in the said resolutions including research and development, agricultural infrastructures and livelihood that will surely benefit tobacco farmers. It is in accordance with the Annual Investment Plan for 2018 of the PGIN.
SPM Davinci Crisostomo assured that they complied with the guidelines set forth by the DBM and Republic Act 7171 in the implementation of the said fund.
Beforehand, Vice Governor Angelo Marcos Barba called for an urgent meeting with the concerned department heads in drafting the said twin resolutions.
Governor Imee Marcos will personally follow up the release of the said funds from the DBM. (Source: Office of the Vice Governor)
