The Sangguniang Bayan plays a crucial role in local governance in the country, performing three key functions. These functions include the legislative function, the quasi-judicial function, and legislative inquiry in aid of legislation. Each of these functions serves a unique purpose in ensuring efficient and effective governance at the local level.
The legislative function of the Sanggunian involves the authority to draft and pass local laws through ordinances or resolutions. These laws have the force of law within the jurisdiction of the Sanggunian and are essential for regulating various aspects of community life. By creating ordinances, the Sanggunian can address specific issues affecting the community, such as public safety, health regulations, and environmental protection. Through this function, the Sanggunian can respond to the needs and concerns of the local populace, creating laws tailored to the unique circumstances of their jurisdiction.
The quasi-judicial function of the Sanggunian allows it to preside over administrative cases involving elected local officials who have committed offenses. This function is crucial for holding public officials accountable for their actions and ensuring ethical behavior in government. By adjudicating cases involving misconduct or violations of law, the Sanggunian upholds the principles of good governance and maintains public trust in the integrity of local government officials. This quasi-judicial role serves as a check on the power of elected officials, ensuring that they are held to account for their actions.
Legislative inquiry in aid of legislation empowers the Sanggunian to gather information to make informed decisions when creating or amending ordinances. This process, known as remedial legislation, allows the Sanggunian to conduct research, hold hearings, and gather input from stakeholders to inform their legislative decisions.
In order to carry out these functions effectively, the Sanggunian must establish internal rules of procedures (IRP) that align with their responsibilities and guide their proceedings. By adhering to established IRP, the Sanggunian can ensure transparency, fairness, and efficiency in their decision-making processes, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of local governance.
By establishing and adhering to IRP, the Sanggunian can carry out these functions effectively and contribute to the improvement of governance at the local level.
REGINALD B. TAMAYO,
reginaldtamayo@yahoo.com