Quezon city: The Quezon City government has expressed full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive requiring national agencies to secure permits from the local government before implementing any infrastructure projects. "This directive is a vital step in ensuring that every government initiative is responsive to the needs, priorities, and safety of our citizens," the city government said in a statement Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the directive strengthens the intent of the Local Government Code, which mandates meaningful participation of LGUs (local government units) in the planning and implementation of projects that directly affect their constituencies. Mayor Joy Belmonte noted that this policy aligns with the city's existing ordinance, ensuring projects undergo consultation and coordination to protect communities and long-term development plans.
In March 2020, the City Council approved Ordinance No. SP-2939, S-2020, which requires all national government agencies, offices, and corporations to coordinate with the city government before implementing projects within its jurisdiction. Under the ordinance, a Certificate of Coordination from the Office of the Mayor is a prerequisite for issuing permits, ensuring public consultation, alignment with local development plans, and protection of citywide systems before any work begins.
The city government emphasized that coordination is particularly critical for infrastructure projects, where inadequate planning may lead to community disruption, displacement, or unintended risks. Mayor Belmonte stated that this process ensures alignment with the city's development strategies, such as its Drainage Master Plan and other long-term plans, while safeguarding the responsible and efficient use of public funds.
President Marcos issued the directive last week following reports of delays, overlaps, and implementation gaps in several infrastructure projects caused by the lack of LGU consultation. He noted that securing local permits would promote smoother coordination, efficient use of public funds, and stronger accountability to the communities affected.
"The SOP (standard operating procedure) before was that before you release the project to the local government, it should first be accepted by the local government. And that's something that we will reinstitute," the Chief Executive stated during his visit and site inspection of a rock shed project in Tuba, Benguet, on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Quezon City government assured that it would remain a steadfast partner in advancing national development while safeguarding the welfare of its residents. It stressed that every project must contribute not only to national growth but also to the long-term well-being of its residents. "We emphasize that true progress is built on mutual respect and cooperation between national and local governments. By institutionalizing this balance of equality and interdependence, we uphold the integrity of our communities while advancing our shared national vision," the city government said.
