THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to receive its required P2.7 billion budget to hold the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) on October 13.
This after the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) approved in principle the budget allocation for the Comelec and the BPE 2025.
“In order for us to utilize the budget allocated, we just have to submit our financial plan on how we will spend it, what we need to procure, et al. It won’t be given to us fully,” said Comelec Chairman George Garcia in an interview yesterday.
“The most important thing is we can now start preparing for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections,” he added.
In a statement, the DBM affirmed the approval of the budget allocation to the Comelec for the BPE.
“As of this date, Comelec has available MDS (Modified Disbursement System) balance of P2.1 billion, which the agency can tap for its immediate due and demandable payables,” said the DBM.
DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran said the Comelec is also allowed to seek additional funding if needed.
“Once depleted, it can always request for additional NCA (Notice of Cash Allocation) for its due and demandable accounts payable relative to the Bangsamoro elections,” said Libiran.
Garcia said parts of the funds would be used to provide additional honoraria for members of the electoral boards (EBs).
“Not only should the EB members in the national and local polls be given additional P2,000. Those that will serve in the BPE should also be given an additional P2,000 across-the-board,” he said.
He added that the Comelec is also planning to hire additional support staff in the voting centers for the BPE.
“Having additional support staff will require an additional budget,” said Garcia.
