Monday, December 03, 2007 Speak out: Development for whom? By Pepe Gasapo Cebu Labor Education Advocacy and Research Center (Clear)
IT was like I have been to the mountaintop and heard the words of God.
I commend Mandaue City Mayor Jonas C. Cortes for “encouraging NGOs’ direct participation in local governance, providing space to decide, initiate and innovate.” He declared this clearly not ‘on the mountaintop’ but during the City Development Council’s deliberation of the Annual Investment Plan (AIP) for year 2008.
Present were seven accredited non-government organizations led by Mandaue City Network of NGOs (MCNN). According to Art. 62, Rule XIII of the Rules and Regulations Implementing the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991, the local chief executive’s role in undertaking the campaign to ensure participation of all NGOs operating within her/his territorial jurisdiction is vital.
The number of NGO representatives in each Local Development Council shall not be less than one-fourth of the total membership of the fully-organized council. They take part in the approval of the AIP. Sixteen years later such provisions have yet to be implemented. Clear’s involvement in this process does not necessarily intend to have the Code followed. It rather reflects our adherence to constructive dialogue.
Firstly, Clear believes that treating the views of differing parties with respect and recognition is itself a successful active-principled partnership. Secondly, we advocate for the proper utilization of the local development fund and other authorized development funds for the identified priority needs of the people. Thirdly, we are committed for the integration of people’s agenda to the development plans, policies and programs using rights-based, participatory and gender-responsive approaches.
It is hard to imagine why people’s organizations are excluded in the development council’s discussion and decision-making on matters affecting their lives. Development is about people…real people. Those in the basic sectors are essential integrants of our society’s survival. They labor all day to produce the material values and needs for our existence. They are the farmers, fisherfolk, factory and construction workers, vendors, the stevedores, drivers, day-care teachers, domestic helpers (kasambahay), and others.
Finally, strong and sustainable people’s organizations are organs of people power. They are the most potent weapon to hold back government officials accountable to the people. Their very existence helps to make the whole political system work better, and opens avenues for ongoing participation. Without such democratic institutions, our concept of politics would be limited to voting every few years, a necessary but often uninspiring activity.
