LGUs should be consulted on national programs

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers has slammed the Department of Social Welfare and Development over the large crowds that swarmed the department’s offices to claim cash assistance for indigent students.

This problem could have been avoided if the cash aid distribution was done with the assistance of the local government units (LGUs). However, this could only be possible if the national government consulted the LGUs first. LGUs have the right to be consulted by the national government on the implementation of programs and projects that directly concern them.

Section 2(c) of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, states that it is “the policy of the State to require all national agencies and offices to conduct periodic consultations with appropriate local government units, nongovernmental and people’s organizations, and other concerned sectors of the community before any project or program is implemented in their respective jurisdictions.”

This provision is complemented by Section 25(b) of the same Code, which says “National agencies and offices with project implementation functions shall coordinate with one another and with the local government units concerned in the discharge of these functions. They shall ensure the participation of local government units both in the planning and implementation of said national projects.”

LGUs are institutionally capable of helping the national government distribute cash aid to students residing within their territorial jurisdictions.

A friendly reminder to the national government: LGUs are partners of the national government in the local implementation of national programs, projects, activities, and services.

REGINALD B. TAMAYO,

Marikina City

[email protected]