The Editor
Philippine Daily Inquirer

The piece by Dr. Brillantes entitled, “Local Governance: Reform Stalled by Politics” (PDI , 7/28/09) succinctly discusses the many obstructions that hinder effective local governance.  Many local governments, for instance, are still adjusting and undoubtedly struggling with the costs of the various social service functions devolved to them by law.  The spectrum of national-level directives ordering the implementation of nationally designed programs and interventions, without accompanying financial support, only further strains the economic resources of local governments.  These issues, of course, may be remedied through the reform of relevant the statutes.  The current mode of dividing the Internal Revenue Allotment of local governments, for instance, may be made more just and equitable.  As Dr. Brillantes points out however, partisan politics have gotten in the way of reform measures such as this.

Despite the hurdles of present statutes and political partisanship, Dr. Brillantes also underscores the fact that several local administrations have still managed to excel through creative interventions.  Some local governments, for instance, have improved their fiscal situation through improved revenue generation.  Others have enhanced the relevance of their service delivery programs through extensive community consultations.

Just recently, the Quezon City Council passed an ordinance creating the People’s Council of Quezon City.  The principal author of the ordinance, Councilor Jorge “Bolet” Banal, Jr., inspired by the Naga City People’s Council, envisions the People’s Council of Quezon City as the primary mechanism through which the citizens of Quezon City may help ensure that local governance can progressively become more participatory, accountable and transparent.  The People’s Council of Quezon City, for instance, will facilitate the participation of NGOs, people’s organizations, church groups, and business associations in local policy formulation processes, thus enhancing the overall responsiveness of the city government.  The People’s Council can also serve as the means through which local citizens may hold their local representatives accountable.

That Quezon City has progressed and developed under the leadership of Mayor Feliciano “SB” Belmonte, Jr. is unquestionable.  Sound fiscal administration and strategic development planning has produced a vibrant, diverse, and progressive city.  The People’s Council of Quezon City, as passed by the Sangguniang Panglungsod of Quezon City, may be seen as precisely the type of innovation necessary to overstep the present weaknesses of prevailing national statutes.  Equally concrete, the People’s Council of Quezon City, once approved by the mayor, may be what is necessary to safeguard what Quezon City has already gained through the Belmonte Administration.

 

Ed Chavez, Convenor
Task Force PAT of Quezon City
25-B Matiyaga St., Bgy. Pinyahan, Quezon City