Ex-lawmaker pushes for revision of Local Government Code

KANANGA, Leyte - Former Senator Ernesto Maceda is pushing for the revision of Republic Act 9160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991.

Maceda said he was one of the authors of the code, who included the provision of cash gifts to barangay officials, taxing power of the barangay and the local governments, and the functions of the local government. The said code was also authored by former Senator Aquilino Pimentel.

Maceda said the Local Government Code needs to be revisited, reviewed and revised. In order to further empower the local government units, it is imperative to add provisions in order to capacitate the LGUs in performing vital functions and services. He said that he will push for more benefits for the barangays.

He cited that government projects have been delayed because the National Government is implementing even projects that can be handled by the LGUs.

Maceda said the projects worth P10 million and below can be implemented by the level of the city or Municipal Mayor, and the P50 million and below can be implemented by the Provincial Governments.

Another important thing that should be considered for the revision of the Local Government Code, according to Maceda, is to give more authority, resources and Internal Revenue Allocation (IRA) to the LGUs.

The former Senator also bared his plan to seek for seat in the Senate in 2013 elections.

Maceda said that at the age of 77, he is 11 years younger than Juan Ponce Enrile, who still performed well as a legislator.

He said that at the young age of 23 he was already elected as councilor of Manila, and then in the years that followed he served as Ambassador, Senator, Cabinet member, and in various government positions. (Leyte Samar Daily Express) (Leyte Samar Daily Express)