The capability shown by local government units such as cities and municipalities in approving subdivision development projects over the last 29 years inspires confidence in the LGUs’ ability to implement national government programs that may be devolved to LGUs in the wake of the Mandanas-Garcia ruling of the Supreme Court.
Architect Ronie Biando, national president of the National Real Estate Association said they welcome plans to devolve more national government programs to LGUs starting this year pursuant to the SC ruling and Executive Order 168.
Biando said LGUs shouyld also prove themselves in implementing seamless processing and issuance of construction permits and licenses pursuant to the Ease of Doing Business and Effective Government Services Law.
NREA chairman Ricky Celis said the NREA will have as guests Secretary Roger Mercado and director Anna Liza Bonagua of the Department of Public Works and Highways and Department of Interior and Local Government, respectively. They will talk on the fast tracking of issuance of construction permits during NREA’s online Business Meeting and Industry Forum on April 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
Bonagua will also touch on the status and DILG plans on the Mandanas ruling and EO 168 issued to implement program devolution to LGUs.
Marissa Del Mar, NREA chair emerita, and first nominee of OFW Partylist, said EO No. 71, series of 1993, devolved to LGUs the power of then Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board to approve all subdivision plans and projects for residential, commercial and industrial purposes.
The Mandanas-Garcia ruling increases the tax share of LGUs to enable them to undertake devolved services, including provision of housing assistance.
Imelda Magtoto, NREA board vice chairman, said NREA welcomes devolution of functions to LGUs in the spirit of greater local autonomy, and more effective delivery of basic services to local constituents.