By Xander Ledesma
Mandaue City Budget Officer Giovanni Tianero has clarified that the proposed P16 million budget for December 2025 is not solely for the purchase of hams.
The budget will be allocated for various city activities, including a Christmas party for city hall employees, food parks, token giveaways, decorations, and cultural events. The allocation is similar to the 2024 budget, which was divided into two components: P7 million for “Pasko sa Mandaue” activities and P9 million for year-end evaluation programs.
Tianero emphasized that any unused funds will be returned to the City’s general fund. He also noted that the food park tenants will only be charged a minimal occupational tax, rather than rental fees.
The clarification comes after Vice Mayor Nerissa Soon-Ruiz questioned the proposed budget, citing concerns about its potential excessiveness. However, the city government maintains that the budget is necessary to ensure a festive and meaningful holiday season for Mandaue City residents.