Former Vice President and senatorial aspirant Jejomar Binay said on Monday, March 14, that he is eyeing to introduce amendments to the Local Government Code to further empower local government units (LGUs).
Binay, who served as Makati City mayor before being elected vice president, said that the Covid-19 pandemic made it clear that LGUs are in the best position to respond to the needs of their constituents.
“Panahon na upang muling balikan at amyendahan ang Local Government Code. May mga probisyon po dito na sa aking palagay ay hinog na para baguhin (It is time to review and amend the Local Government Code because some of its provisions may now be improved)," Binay said.
“Ito ay para lalo pang maisulong ang adhikain ng batas na palakasin at patatagin ang ating local governments (This is to further strengthen the objective of the law to improve our local governments),” he added.
Binay explained that local governments are closer to the people and they know the needs of their constituents, making them in the best position to respond in times of emergencies, such as the pandemic.
He said that one provision that needs to be re-examined is the existing criteria for determining the LGUs’ share of the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA).
“Many local executives have pointed out that this provision discriminates against smaller localities, which are usually localities with little or no internally generated sources of revenue,” Binay said.
“I agree with their observation. Perhaps it is time to work on new criteria that balances the needs and interests of all local governments,” he added.
LGUs can also be expected to further expand and improve its services with the Supreme Court (SC) ruling on the so-called Mandanas case.
The high tribunal, acting on a petition filed by former congressman and now Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, ruled that LGUs are entitled to a “just share” on all national taxes.
The ruling is set to be implemented this year, and the IRA of LGUs is projected to increase by 27.61 per cent.
“The Mandanas Ruling is a landmark decision that can significantly improve the capacities of LGUs to fully deliver services and programs to their constituencies,” Binay said.
“But more than that, the Mandanas ruling rectifies an injustice that has deprived local governments of the means to fulfil their mandate and fully serve their constituents,” the former VP added.