Comelec gets P4.14B for 2013 elections

To prepare for the synchronized elections in May, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is getting P4.14 billion, the Budget and Management Department said Monday.

 

Money was charged against the savings from unused appropriations under the 2012 General Appropriations Act.

 

“We augmented the Comelec’s budget to enable them to make the necessary preparations for this year’s elections,” said Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad.

 

“The additional fund support will ensure that pre-election activities are accomplished according to schedule and with the utmost efficiency,” the Budget chief added.

 

The department said P1.54 billion will cover expenses for the Synchronized National and Local Elections, and P755.08 million for activities related to the Precinct Count Optical Scan machines including the development of collateral and software support, maintenance, and training and seminar.

 

The budget requirements for Overseas Absentee Voting – under other items – will get P100.9 million.

 

The P4.14 billion will only be used for the 2013 elections,  according to the Budget chief, noting that unused funds will no longer be available by the end of the year. — VS, GMA News