SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Laguna is urging newly-elected barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to craft and harmonize their respective local development council (LDC) plans as they assume their respective post by noon of June 30.
In an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday, DILG Laguna Cluster A head Maria Lorilyn Valenzuela-Manrique said local government unit (LGU) executives and officials should focus on formulating their respective comprehensive development plan, which serves as roadmap in their programs and projects that are in sync with the needs and concerns of their constituents.
Manrique was among the resources officials during the DILG-Laguna 2nd Cluster City/Municipality Management Coordinating Council Meeting at the Palmera’s Garden Restaurant here Wednesday.
She also urged new local leaders to assess and review their current development plans and accomplishments as they prepare to form their LDCs in time for the annual budget preparation of the cities, towns and barangays in the province.
"The Barangay Development Councils should be strengthened so that any development, economic, social and investment plan and coordinative efforts within their territorial jurisdiction could be harmonized and incorporated into the city or municipal development plan,” she said.
DILG officials and representatives from the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Laguna’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd Congressional districts attended the Laguna 2nd cluster council meeting .
According to Manrique, the local Comprehensive Development Plan is a vital document for every LGU to be able to steer local government administration and governance in their territorial jurisdiction pursuant to the Local Government Code, or Republic Act 7160.
The plan embodies the vision and mission of every LGU and integrates the development programs, projects, services, undertakings and resources that address social concerns, health, livelihood, institution-building, infrastructures, environment and ecology that have long-term benefits.
She said that the quality of the plan also reflects the quality and character of the local leadership, and how they could apply their knowledge, skills and expertise in local governance and administration and local legislations.
She added that the crafting of the plan also involves effective engagements and dialogues with constituents through public assemblies, public hearings especially on setting the directions to address issues and concerns on the system of transportation, public utilities, comprehensive land use, zoning and geographical mapping, environmental and ecological concerns, among other key areas. (Ruben E. Taningco/PNA)
