In Davao City, Mati City Mayor Michelle Rabat has expressed deep concerns about the ongoing budget deadlock in the Davao Oriental provincial government, which she claims is severely impacting the local economy. During her weekly radio show, Magtanong Kay MNR, Rabat highlighted that the provincial budget, which has been reenacted, has resulted in around PHP120 million remaining unused, thereby hampering the economic activity in Mati. She pointed fingers at certain members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, accusing them of exploiting the budget situation for personal or political gains. Rabat stressed the necessity of the city’s intervention to fill the gaps left by the province, stating that without it, many residents would be left jobless. She called on provincial leaders to resolve their differences and focus on ending the budget stalemate to bring back economic stability. In response to the crisis, Mati City has taken on the responsibility of employing additional job order (JO) workers who were previously with the provincial government, increasing the city’s JO workforce from 2,000 to 3,600. While this has been a lifeline for many, it has also put a significant strain on the city’s finances. The monthly salary expenses for these workers have risen to approximately PHP40 million, adding to the city’s financial woes. Rabat has once again urged provincial officials to swiftly resolve the impasse, underscoring the critical need for economic recovery in Davao Oriental.
