In a move towards more seamless, efficient, and transparent governance, the Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod has approved on first reading a proposed ordinance that seeks to establish the digitalization of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod City.
Councilor Em Ang, the author of the proposed ordinance, said that this measure is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen e-governance through modern technology .
“The ordinance underscores the city’s commitment to efficient and sustainable governance through digital transformation—by reducing paper use, facilitating faster record retrieval, and improving inter-office coordination,” Ang said.
In addition to digitalizing legislative processes, the councilor also proposed the formal adoption of online streaming for all regular and special sessions of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, a practice that has been informally in place for over four years.
“We have been conducting live streaming for more than four years now, even without a formal ordinance. It’s time we institutionalize it so it can be properly funded and our personnel can be adequately trained to handle the broadcast. These are sensitive and important matters that require proper equipment and compliance with our laws,” Ang said.
The proposed measure aims to broaden public access to local governance proceedings while ensuring adherence to data privacy and information security standards.
According to the draft ordinance, the Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, in coordination with the Public Information Office, will be responsible for overseeing the live broadcasts—ensuring video quality, accessibility, and compliance with data privacy regulations.
During the public hearing on the proposed measures, a recommendation was made for technical staff to receive specialized training to improve their capabilities during the transition to digital operations.
The hearing saw participation from representatives of the Management Information Technology and Computer Services, City Budget Office, City Legal Office, members of the council, and various key city departments.
These initiatives underscore the Bacolod City Government’s continuing commitment to transparency, accountability, and innovation in the delivery of public service.*