The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod has approved on first reading an ordinance requiring prior consultation with the city government before the implementation of any national government infrastructure project within the city.
Authored by Councilor Caesar Distrito, chairperson of the Committee on Government Assets, with Councilors Celia Flor, Lady Gles Gonzales-Palen, Dindo Ramos, and Em Legaspi Ang as co-authors, the measure seeks to institutionalize coordination between national agencies and the Local Government Unit.
This is to ensure that projects are aligned with Bacolod’s development plans and community welfare, a press release from Distrito said on Friday, Oct. 3.
The proposed “National Infrastructure Projects Prior LGU Consultation and Transparency Ordinance of Bacolod City” mandates that all national agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Agriculture , Department of Education, Department of Tourism, and government-owned or controlled corporations consult with the City of Bacolod and secure a resolution of endorsement before proceeding with any project.
It also provides mechanisms for transparency, requiring the publication of project details, submission of progress reports, and imposes penalties on violators, including fines, imprisonment, and cease-and-desist orders.
Distrito said that “the ordinance is not meant to delay projects but to guarantee transparency, accountability, and respect for local autonomy”.
“Major national projects often affect traffic, the environment, and businesses, making local consultation vital. This ensures that projects are harmonized with local development plans, while protecting the interests of Bacolodnons”, he said.
Flor said “this measure strengthens the voice of Bacolod in national projects. It ensures that people’s concerns and community needs are heard before any construction begins.”
“By requiring consultation, we empower our barangays (villages) and residents to be active participants in shaping projects that directly impact their daily lives”, Gonzales-Palen added.
Ramos said the “ordinance is about accountability. National agencies must coordinate with us so that projects bring real benefits and not unnecessary problems to our constituents.”
“This is a proactive step to promote transparency and good governance. With clear mechanisms in place, Bacolodnons can be assured that national projects are undertaken responsibly”, Ang said.
In the course of drafting the ordinance, consultations were also made with Bacolod Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, who expressed his support and approval of the measure, Distrito said.
With its approval on first reading, the ordinance will now undergo committee hearings and public consultations before being scheduled for second reading and eventual passage, he said.*
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