Magna carta for barangays sought

MANILA, Philippines - A bill filed at the House of Representatives seeks to create a magna carta for barangays.

 

Cebu Rep. Gabriel Luis Quisumbing proposed the measure to give barangay officials additional power and funding for implementing various projects.

 

“Access to basic necessities does not have to be a major problem for barangay residents especially for those living in far-flung communities,” Quisumbing said.

 

The bill provides that the National Treasury automatically remit public funds allocated to barangays every end of the year for the maintenance of barabgay roads, bridges and other similar constructions. 

 

Quisumbing said that 25 percent of all taxes collected on real property and 10 percent of fees collected from individuals or entities within the the barangay will be allocated for barangay funds.

 

“As the basic political unit, the barangay serves as the primary planning and implementing unit of government programs, projects and activities,” Quisumbing said.

 

Under the proposed magna carta, each barangay will have to sponsor at least one scholarship leading to any bachelor degree, including tuition and other school fees, book allowance, supplies, transportation and other expenses.

 

Every barangay will have the priority to hire workers and laborers needed in development or construction projects within the area.