Local Leaders Demand National Government Agencies Consult LGUs
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora emphasized the crucial need for national government agencies to seek consultations with local government units (LGUs) before launching projects in their jurisdictions. This call highlights the growing concern that some agencies bypass LGUs, undermining local insights and priorities.
Mayor Zamora firmly supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to revive the practice of securing LGU approval prior to implementing government-funded projects. “LGUs should be consulted because we know the needs of our cities and municipalities. They can’t just start their projects, for example the DPWH, without knowing what the area needs,” the mayor said during an interview with a local news outlet.
League of Cities Voices Shared Frustrations
As president of the League of Cities of the Philippines, Zamora gathered feedback from fellow mayors regarding coordination with national agencies. Many local leaders expressed frustrations about the lack of consultation and coordination in their regions.
“Some mayors raised that in their cities and regions, there is usually no coordination with the local government unit. We support the directive of President Marcos,” Zamora noted. He stressed that while not all LGUs experience this issue, the problem remains significant enough to warrant renewed attention.
Coordination with DPWH as a Model
Zamora shared that in San Juan City, he maintains close communication with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) whenever the agency undertakes projects locally. “They cannot proceed just because they want to build something in this particular area,” he explained, underscoring the importance of collaboration to ensure projects meet community needs.
He also emphasized that securing LGU approval clarifies the project scope and objectives, fostering accountability. “Once the LGUs give a go signal, they are accountable. And we know that the projects will be completed,” Zamora added.
Presidential Directive Aims for Better Coordination
The directive from President Marcos came after his inspection of a controversial rock netting project in Tuba, Benguet. The P114.1-million initiative, awarded to 3K Rock Engineering, involved installing a 3,479-square meter active mesh designed to stabilize rock formations and reduce landslide risks along Kennon Road.
Despite its intended purpose, the project has drawn criticism. Marcos described the rock netting as “very notorious for corruption,” noting that the project was implemented without public consultations or local government involvement. He also condemned the contractor for overcharging on materials.
According to officials, the project started on April 24, 2018, and was expected to be completed by June 15, 2019. However, concerns about its quality and transparency persist.
Calls for Transparency in Flood Mitigation Efforts
President Marcos further revealed that only P100 billion out of a P545-billion flood mitigation budget—from July 2022 to May 2025—has been awarded to 15 of 2,409 accredited contractors. This disclosure raised questions about project distribution and execution across the country.
Local leaders and community members alike hope that the renewed emphasis on LGU consultation will improve project transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness to local needs.
For more news and updates on national government agencies and LGU coordination, visit Filipinokami.com.
