Public consultations to come first and project implementation follows

CEBU, Philippines - Barangay captains in Lapu-Lapu City will hold public consultations before any project is implemented.

Leo Mercado, president of the Association of Barangay Councils in Lapu-Lapu City, said the move is aimed at avoiding problems in the future.

Earlier, DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo said barangay chairmen are in essence vow to institutionalize the tenets of transparency, responsiveness, accountability, and participation at the barangay level.

Robredo urged barangay officials to discuss the guideposts in promoting and sustaining barangay good governance, particularly on transparency of barangay financial records such as the posting of monthly collections and disbursements.

He said the assembly would also be a venue for them to present the current state of development and financial status of the barangay.

"The venue will be consultations and discussions with barangay residents on the proposed plans and programs to be implemented in the barangay for the next three years," Robredo said.

He said the barangay is an important vehicle to elicit feedback from the public on community issues as well as to mobilize their support for government programs and projects. (FREEMAN)