THE vice mayor's post is very important. Apart from being the city's second highest office, its occupant is the constituency's chief legislator. He thus carries great influence in social, economic and political affairs.

As presiding officer of the City Council, he is the principal facilitator in the formulation of policy and lawmaking, with a vital role in the system of checks and balances in city governance.

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This position didn't mean much in the past since it was basically just a "spare tire" -- a reserve post to be activated in the event the mayor was incapacitated or otherwise unable to function.

But not anymore. With the enactment of the Local Government Code of 1991, the position assumed great significance.

Being head of the legislative branch today, the vice mayor shares with the mayor the power to define, formulate or determine policy, priorities and programs.

Moreover, the appropriate funding for these hinges upon his sensitivity and support as he steers the Council's standing committees.

If he is knowledgeable, there would be wise policies and programs -- for development, for quality of life, for every aspect of life, living and livelihood.

If he has a clear vision and is confident of his abilities, he would not only welcome but encourage debate and exchange. He would draw out the best thinking, reasoning or inputs from every councilor and resource person.

If he does his homework and is methodical and efficient, every standing committee, of which there are two dozen or so, would yield well-researched, well-thought-out and socially-desirable legislative proposals and packages.

If he believes in democracy, he would invite the widest possible discussion on these. He would also empower the people by having them participate in the discussion and resolution of issues.

If he is sincere about good governance, he would see that the mechanisms and processes that ensure transparency and accountability are smoothly functioning. And he would himself seek to refine them and make them more effective.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if Cagayan de Oro were to have such a vice mayor; one with the aptitude, desire or qualification for facilitating these tasks and processes?

Or at least one who shows up to preside over the City Council!

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Manny is a former UN executive and director at the development academy of the Philippines. Email: valdehuesa@gmail.com