Institutionalizing Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer for Stronger LGUs
TACLOBAN CITY – To boost local economic growth and ensure steady investment promotion nationwide, Northern Samar 2nd District Rep. Edwin Ongchuan has introduced a bill to institutionalize the position of Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer (LEDIPO) in all provinces, cities, and first- and second-class municipalities. This move aims to make the role permanent across local government units (LGUs), enhancing continuity and effectiveness.
The bill, titled “An Act Institutionalizing the Position of Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer in Local Government Units,” seeks to amend the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act No. 7160) by mandating the appointment of LEDIPOs in selected LGUs. Currently, the designation of LEDIPOs rests on the discretion of local chief executives, making the position temporary and susceptible to political changes.
Ensuring Consistent Investment Promotion Nationwide
According to sources, this lack of permanency disrupts long-term investment programs and weakens local economic initiatives. It also leads to the loss of valuable institutional knowledge whenever administrations change. “By institutionalizing the LEDIPO position, we are ensuring that our LGUs are equipped with dedicated professionals capable of implementing long-term economic strategies, attracting investments, and fostering sustainable local development,” Ongchuan said in the explanatory note accompanying the bill filed on June 30.
The bill complements Executive Order No. 18 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which mandates the creation of “Green Lanes” in government agencies and LGUs to fast-track strategic investment projects. Under this order, the LEDIPO will act as the key coordinator for investor-related services at the local level, streamlining processes and encouraging business growth.
Key Provisions and Roles of LEDIPO
The proposed law requires LEDIPOs to be appointed in all provincial, city, and first- and second-class municipalities, while allowing third- to sixth-class municipalities the option to appoint one. Ongchuan envisions LEDIPOs leading the crafting and implementation of the Local Investment and Incentives Code, supporting investment policy development, managing investment databases, and liaising with private stakeholders and national agencies.
Sources noted that since 2010, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has encouraged LGUs to appoint LEDIPOs through various memorandums. However, the absence of a legal mandate has resulted in uneven adoption across regions. If enacted, the bill is expected to professionalize local investment promotion, improve LGUs’ readiness to attract investors, and support the national government’s efforts to drive regional economic growth and enhance the ease of doing business.
Background and Moving Forward
Before serving as a legislator, Ongchuan was governor of Northern Samar from 2019 to 2025. His experience in local governance informs his push to institutionalize LEDIPOs, which he believes will provide stability and expertise in investment promotion at the grassroots level.
For more news and updates on local economic development, visit Filipinokami.com.