THERE are several occasions that the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has been snubbed by persons invited or commanded to appear before it, for purpose of lawful inquiry in aid of legislation.
Oftentimes, the proposed legislative measures are delayed because the persons invited to shed light on the matters at hand ignore the invitations.
The councilor in charge of the committee hearing the matter where the person invited does not appear understandably archives the measure and is forgotten over time.
Why is this so? Has not the august body enough powers to compel the invitees to attend committee hearings conducted in aid of legislation?
The Senate of the Philippines has the power to cite in contempt any resource person who violates senate rules, one who does not cooperate in the hearings or be evasive in answering questions from the panel.
I believe that the SP must have the same power as its bigger counterpart, the Senate.
Browsing through the Local Government Code, I found analogous provisions regarding sanctions to ensure attendance of invitees to committee hearings.
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Fearless forecasts. The May 13 elections are drawing near and candidates are furiously preparing for the mid-term electoral exercises.
As usual, focus is given to the young hopefuls aiming for elective slots like Nino “RS” delos Reyes who has set his sights for Mabalacat City Sangguniang Panlungsod. Ditto with Ralph Lauren “Basti” David. Both are competent and are very ready to serve the public. The lineup of Mayor Cris Garbo is composed of businessmen and so will not depend entirely on their salaries as councilors.
In Angeles City, Jose Aubrey "Kuya J" Pelayo IV is contesting a seat versus the reelectionists Jay Sangil, Doc Alfie Bonifacio and Joseph “PG” Ponce and others. The Angeles City voters are wise and discerning and they know the potentials of these candidates.
On the vice mayoralty race in Angeles City, comebacking former city vice mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting will put a strong and vigorous fight against her opponents.
Again, in Magalang, former mayor Romy F. Pecson has his network of supporters and resources ready. It will be an uphill climb for his against the incumbent mayor Malu Paras Lacson, but mayor Romy is bent on reclaiming his old post.
In Mabalacat City, it will be a close fight between incumbent city mayor Crisostomo C. Garbo and city vice mayor Christian C. Halili. The candidate with the most impressive work record will win the contest.