Gov.Gambito warns of ‘Worst-Case Scenario’
By Rachel Magday
NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines -‘ Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has ordered stricter austerity measures across the provincial government, warning of a potential “worst-case scenario” as surging fuel prices continue to strain the economy amid tensions in the Middle East.
The directive came during an emergency meeting convened Monday with department heads to map out additional interventions to mitigate the deepening impact of the crisis on both government operations and vulnerable communities.
Gambito called for disciplined spending and forward planning, urging officials to brace for prolonged economic strain.
“Let us assume that we are moving toward a situation of scarcity. To sustain ourselves, we must save so that we have resources when they are most needed,” he said, stressing that the scenario, while extreme, remains possible if geopolitical tensions persist.
Savings generated from the intensified austerity program, he said, will be redirected to fund financial assistance for vulnerable sectors, particularly those still recovering from recent calamities.
“Many of our farmers are only beginning to recover from the effects of recent typhoons. Now they are confronted with another crisis,” the governor added.
As part of intensified cost-cutting efforts, the provincial government is eyeing the suspension of non-essential programs, projects, and activities (PPAs), particularly those that can be deferred without compromising the office performance. These include capability-building initiatives and certain infrastructure projects that may be implemented in phases. From these measures, the province expects to generate savings, including an estimated ₱5 million specifically from the temporary suspension of capability-building activities.
The provincial government is also considering scaling down the Grand Ammungan Festival, with proposals to shorten the celebration from five days to a single-day event. The festival has an allocated budget of ₱15 million, part of which could be realigned under the austerity program. Meanwhile, potential savings of around ₱5 million are being eyed from the temporary suspension of selected capability-building programs
Earlier, the provincial government implemented a four-day workweek as an initial austerity measure.
Meanwhile, financial assistance for the transport sector is currently being processed, with the provincial government allocating ₱18 million for the program.
Additional support initiatives are also underway. The “Bagas ti Umili” program, with a budget of ₱17.2 million, is set to be rolled out next month. This is on top of the ₱80-million rice subsidy program funded by the national government and implemented at the provincial level.
Support for the agriculture sector will also continue through the provision of agricultural inputs and seed subsidies.
“Our people must feel that in the midst of this crisis, there is a government that genuinely cares for them”, Gov Gambito said. “We are dealing with a a very serious problem that affects everyone—perhaps even more severe than COVID-19. By providing assistance, we aim to restore the purchasing power of our citizens and help revive the local economy”.
