The local government here is ready with PHP20 million in allowances for city athletes and coaches who are part of the Western Visayas delegation to the 2023 Palarong Pambansa that will be held in Marikina City from July 29 to Aug. 5.

In a press conference on Monday, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said the money would be released once the Iloilo City Schools Division of the Department of Education (DepEd) submits a voucher attached to a payroll containing the accurate names of the recipients.

“We have more than sufficient funds. The (Iloilo) province has released PHP45 million for five districts. We have PHP20 million for only one district. I can say without fear of contradiction that we have more than enough,” he said.

Iloilo City has a 94-member delegation joining the 539 athletes; 131 coaches, assistant coaches, and chaperones; and a 143-member technical working group from Western Visayas that arrived in Manila on Monday.

Treñas said supposedly the allowances would be released before the sports event but documents were returned to the Iloilo City Schools Division by the city accounting office several times due to corrections.

“We approved the appropriation very early and in time for their first sports activity. I think it is a lesson for them,” he added.

In a previous interview, DepEd 6 (Western Visayas) information officer Hernani Escullar said the office provides food, transportation, and accommodation for the athletes.

The region is eyeing the championship in this year’s national sports event.

Western Visayas ranked third in the 2019 Palaro with 49 gold, 40 silver, and 73 bronze medals. (PNA)