Bacolod councilor pushes LGU consultation on infra projects

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – A member of the Bacolod City Council is pushing for an ordinance requiring prior consultation with the local government unit before implementing national infrastructure projects.

Councilor Atty. Caesar Distrito, author of the proposed ordinance, said the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod has approved it on first reading.

He emphasized that consultation with the city government should be mandatory before any national government infrastructure project is carried out within Bacolod.

Distrito, who chairs the Committee on Government Assets, is joined by Councilors Celia Flor, Lady Gles Gonzales-Pallen, Dindo Ramos, and Em Legaspi Ang as co-authors of the measure.

The ordinance seeks to institutionalize coordination between national agencies and the local government to ensure that projects align with Bacolod’s development plans and community welfare.

Distrito said the proposed “National Infrastructure Projects Prior LGU Consultation and Transparency Ordinance of Bacolod City” mandates that all national agencies—including the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Agriculture, Department of Education, Department of Tourism, and government-owned or -controlled corporations—consult with the City of Bacolod and secure a resolution of endorsement before proceeding with any project.

It also provides transparency mechanisms, requiring the publication of project details, submission of progress reports, and imposes penalties on violators, including fines, imprisonment, and cease-and-desist orders.

Distrito further emphasized that “the ordinance is not meant to delay projects but to guarantee transparency, accountability, and respect for local autonomy.”

He added that major national projects often affect traffic, the environment, and businesses, making local consultation essential.

“This ensures that projects are harmonized with local development plans, while protecting the interests of Bacolodnons,” he said.

Flor, one of the co-authors, said, “This measure strengthens the voice of Bacolod in national projects.

It ensures that people’s concerns and community needs are heard before any construction begins.”

Pallen added, “By requiring consultation, we empower our barangays and residents to be active participants in shaping projects that directly impact their daily lives.”

For his part, Ramos stressed, “This ordinance is about accountability.

National agencies must coordinate with us so that projects bring real benefits and not unnecessary problems to our constituents.”

Ang also expressed her support, saying, “This is a proactive step to promote transparency and good governance.

With clear mechanisms in place, Bacolodnons can be assured that national projects are undertaken responsibly.”

In the course of drafting the ordinance, consultations were also held with Bacolod Lone District Representative Cong. Albee Benitez, who expressed his support and approval of the measure, Distrito said.

With its approval on first reading, the ordinance will now undergo committee hearings and public consultations before being scheduled for second reading and eventual passage, he added.