BACOLOD City – The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) here has approved on first reading a proposed measure titled the “Bacolod City PAGCOR Trust Fund Cash Advance Ordinance of 2025” during its regular session last week.
Authored by Councilor Dindo Ramos, the proposed ordinance seeks to authorize the grant of cash advances from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) trust fund to finance specified programs, projects, and activities of the city government, while prescribing guidelines for their proper utilization.
He explained that disbursement of PAGCOR funds for socio-civic purposes is often delayed due to bureaucratic procedures, which prevents the funds from reaching their intended beneficiaries on time. To address this, the ordinance aims to fast-track the release of funds within a reasonable period and ensure that they serve their intended purpose.
The proposed measure underscores the need for timely and efficient implementation of PAGCOR-funded initiatives by allowing cash advances to authorized officials in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations. The city mayor, together with the SP finance committee chairperson, will be empowered to grant such cash advances to duly designated Special Disbursing Officers (SDOs) for specific purposes approved by the SP.
Under the proposal, cash advances from the PAGCOR trust fund will be utilized exclusively for social development projects and assistance to indigent constituents, health and medical programs including emergency aid, educational support and scholarships, disaster preparedness and relief operations, as well as other programs and activities duly approved by the SP in line with PAGCOR guidelines.
PAGCOR, a government-controlled corporation, generates revenues that fund socio-civic and national development programs of the Philippine government./PN
