More LGUs back BuCor-TADECO deal

At least eight more local government units (LGUs) have expressed support for the rehabilitation and employment program for inmates in Davao region under a joint venture of the Tagum Agricultural Development Co. Inc. (TADECO) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).

In separate statements released on Sunday, eight LGUs said they support the deal which includes a rehabilitation program for inmates and an employment program for residents in Davao region.

Under the joint venture agreement, the government will receive a guaranteed payment of P26.542 million a year, in exchange for the lease of land for P5,000 per hectare.

Among the LGUs supportive ofthe deal are the Asuncion City Council, Carmen Municipal Council and Liga ng mga Barangay, Dujali Liga ng mga Barangay and City Council, Davao del Norte Liga ng mga Barangay, and Davao del Norte Provincial Council.

Also included are Panabo City Council and Liga ng mga Barangay, Samal City Council, and Santo Tomas City Council and Liga ng mga Barangay.

The Department of Justice, Commission on Audit, and the Office of the Solicitor General earlier questioned the joint venture agreement of the BuCor and the Tadeco as it was "grossly disadvantageous" to the government.

TADECO maintained last may that its contract with the BuCor is legal and binding.

Last week, the provincial board of Davao del Norte expressed support for the rehabilitation and employment program, saying it has provided the region with skills that will enable residents to re-integrate into society as "productive and responsible citizens." —Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/ALG, GMA News