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FIRST EDITION

Local Development Agenda

Formulated based on the outputs of the Workshop for Drawing a Basic Sector Agenda Government Units, a project of the Commission, in cooperation with the Authority and the Programme

Consultative with the Local National Anti-Poverty National Economic Development United Nations Development

Local Development Agenda Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors First Edition, 07 August 2009

Prepared and printed by the National Anti-Poverty Commission in Quezon City, Philippines. The entire pamphlet of part/s of it may be quoted or reproduced freely provided that source document and publisher are acknowledged. This document was prepared by the Basic Sector Unit and Localization Unit Staff led by Sem H. Cordial, concurrent OIC-Director. They are: from BSU, Buena Alivia, Donny Bajada, Tess Baldonadi, Jessie Elacan, Mayette Eledia, Jaycle Ilagan, Kim Medrana, Desiree Mercado, Catalina Ocampo, Ma. Lourdes Pealosa, Hannah Quinsay, Jessie Rebueno, Nelson Salas and Rene Vidallo; from LU, Jojo Adelan, Cha-cha Siawingco, Suzette Simondac, Ana Solis and Glennie Tolentino. Administrative support was provided by the UNDP Project Office composed of Teresita Lalap, Fe Turingan and Bert Villa (in OIC capacity) and the NAPC Administrative and Finance Unit headed by Mr. Elmer Gutierrez.

FIRST EDITION

INTRODUCTION
Under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan or KALAHI, the governments poverty alleviation framework whose operationalization is spearheaded by the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), the Basic Sectors (BS) and Local Government Units (LGUs) have important roles to play. On the one hand, the BS, composed of the following as identified under RA 8425, or the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act of 1997: farmers and rural landless workers, artisanal fisherfolk, urban poor, indigenous cultural communities, workers in the formal sector and migrant workers, workers in the informal sector, women, youth and students, persons with disabilities, victims of disaster and calamities, senior citizens, non-government organizations, children and cooperatives, are expected to form grassroots alliances geared toward policy and program interventions at the local and national levels. On the other, the LGUs are tasked, primarily under RA 7160, or the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991, to assume frontline role in any development effort. They should facilitate and/or implement poverty reduction programs, projects and activities (PPAs) in their localities. They also are mandated take an active role in the planning, monitoring, evaluating and funding and providing other resources to the same PPAs. In these tasks, the LGUs are mandated under RA 8425 to ensure the meaningful participation of the BS. With these responsibilities, it is apparent that the BS and LGUs have to form an alliance and work together. Such an engagement is one of the most important, having the biggest potential to make the most significant impact on alleviating the conditions of the poor. The poor, after all, are on the ground; they are closer to the LGUs than the NAPC or the national government agencies (NGAs). Moreover, RA 7160 mandates the LGUs to provide certain services that are required by the basic sectors. However, nearly a decade since the Basic Sectoral Councils (BS Councils) of the NAPC were established, the link between these important participatory mechanism and the LGUs has never been given the focus that it deserves. Current developments make it imperative for the basic sectors, specially the BS Councils, to seize the moment and take determined steps to alleviate the plight of the poor. One such development is the global financial crisis and its consequent effect of focusing governments and the communitys attention on the poorest and most vulnerable. There is also the fact that while the countrys gross national product (GNP), gross domestic product (GDP), balance of payments (BOP), and debt situation, among other macro-economic indicators, have improved, the ranks of the poor have also increased. This is borne out by the most recent poverty statistics (2006) released by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NCSB).

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

Realizing this, the NAPC Secretariat envisioned the conduct of an advocacy encounter between the BS Councils, on the one hand, and the LGUs, on the other. But first there was a need to define the critical needs of the BS vis-a-vis the envisioned working partnership with the LGUs; in other words, there was a need for the BS Councils to define their agenda with the LGUs. Because these activities entail resources not included in the NAPCs regular budgets, the activity was proposed for funding by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under its Achieving the Millennium Development Goals and Reducing Human Poverty Program, which is principally implemented by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). The proposal was entitled Twin Forums to Ensure Effective Collaboration Between the Local Governments and the BS. The project intended to bring together the National Government Agencies (main BS partner agencies),the LGUs and the Sectoral Councils/Basic Sector Representatives in a dialogue over sectoral advocacies that may be addressed individually or jointly with the LGUs; and give further impetus to the frontline role and responsibilities of the LGUs in the fight against poverty. Specifically, the project aimed to: 1. Review the updated NAPC sectoral agendas and generate basic sector program and policy advocacy agenda targeted specifically for the LGUs on the following concerns: asset reform, livelihood and employment, human development services, and governance; 2. Foster dialogue between basic sectors, on the one hand, and LGUs, on the other, on basic sector advocacies for LGUs; and 3. Generate commitments and support from the LGUs for these advocacies. The twin forums consisted first of a Consultative Workshop to Draw a Basic Sector Agenda with the LGUs and was held on July 22, 2009 at the Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila in Ortigas Center, Quezon City. As the title suggests, the forum provided a venue to the BS Councils to formulate their LGU agenda, in cooperation with their lead partner government agencies, technical staff of the local government leagues, and the NAPC Secretariat. The second forum is entitled Advocacy Forum for LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors where the outputs of the first workshop will be marketed among the heads of the LGU leagues as well as the governors of the NAPCs priority provinces. This document entitled Local Development Agenda. Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors is the NAPC Secretariats initial attempt at repackaging the workshop outputs during the first forum into a knowledge product. It contains proposed courses of actions that reflect critical needs of the BS. This local agenda is geared toward sharpening the LGUs focus on the KALAHI development goals, namely: poverty reduction, good governance and empowered communities.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

PROPOSED LGU POLICY AND PROGRAM SUPPORT FOR THE BASIC SECTORS
The following are the Basic Sectors agenda with the LGUs, presented according to the KALAHIs thematic clusters, namely: Social Protection and Human Development Services, Asset Reform, Participation in Governance and Livelihood and Employment.

A. Social Protection and Human Development Services


The following proposed actions are aimed at improving access to basic services such as education, health and sanitation, electrification and water which are necessary to enable the basic sectors to meet basic human needs and enable them to live decent lives. It also includes actions that will increase community protection from severe impacts of natural and man-made calamities. 1. Ensure the implementation of Child-Friendly School System (CFSS) Pursuant to Executive Order No. 184, Establishing the Presidential Award for Child-Friendly Municipalities and Cities, LGUs are mandated to fulfill its role in promoting and protecting childrens rights to survival, development, protection and participation. Under the Child-Friendly Movement (CFM), and its subcomponent, the Child-Friendly School System, LGUs are expected to ensure the provision of the minimum 1% allocation of the LGUs Internal Revenue Allotment (Sec 15 - RA 9344) for the Barangay/Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC). The allocation may be used to enhance school, learning, and water and sanitation facilities. LGUs are also tasked to ensure that all children in the community are in schools; schools are implementing policies that promote healthy practices and provide safe environment for the children; and that gender stereotyping, child exploitation and abuse are eliminated. The agendum is also consistent with DILG MC 2008-126, Monitoring the Functionality of the Local/ Barangay Council for the Protection of Children; RA 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act; and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Sec. 15 of RA 9344 specifically provides that 1% of the IRA of barangays, municipalities and cities shall be allocated for the strengthening and implementation of the programs of the LCPC. 2. Provide education programs for Out-of-School Children and Youth The increasing number of the out-of-school youth (OSY) needs to be immediately addressed as it usually leads to unhealthy outcomes such as engagement in fraternities/sororities, illegal gambling and other vices, premarital sex and early marriages. As these perturbing consequences usually occur at the

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

ground level, LGUs are the best institutions to arrest the increasing trend. The children sector advocates that LGUs partner with government agencies in crafting and implementing programs and projects that would provide livelihood to OSYs and/or enroll them in alternative learning systems (ALS). LGUs could also facilitate the provision of scholarship to deserving OSYs. 3. Issue local ordinances for schools to build ramps instead of stairs Item 4 under Rule I of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Batas Pambansa (BP) 344 (An Act to Enhance the Mobility of Disabled Persons by Requiring Certain Buildings, Institutions, Establishments and Public Utilities to Install Facilities and Other Devices) states that no permit for the construction, repair or renovation of public and private buildings and other related structures for public use shall be issued, unless the owner or developer has provided in the plans and specifications submitted for approval barrier-free facilities and accessibility features. The administration and enforcement of the provisions of BP 344 is through the City/Municipal Engineer, who acts as Local Building Office, pursuant to Section 477 of RA 7160 (Local Government Code). The Children and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) sectors propose that LGUs issue local ordinance encouraging schools to install ramps instead of stairs in their school buildings. 4. Allocate at least 1% of total annual appropriations for the implementation of plans, programs and projects intended to address the concerns of senior citizens and PWDs Consistent with the provisions stated in Section 29 of the General Provisions of the General Appropriations Act (GAA), LGUs shall issue separate guidelines similar to the Department of Budget and Management Department of Social Welfare and Development (DBM-DSWD) Joint Circular 2003-1, which provides the implementing guidelines for setting aside 1% of government agency budget for programs/projects related to senior citizens and persons with disabilities. The PWD and Senior Citizens Councils propose that, among others, funding for programs, plans and projects be focused on the following: Support to Special Education Programs for PWDs and Special Education (SPED) Centers of Department of Education, consistent with Section 14 (Special Education) of Chapter 2 - Education of RA 7277, or An Act Providing for the Rehabilitation, Self Development and Self Reliance of Disabled Persons and Their Integration into the Mainstream of Society and for Other Purposes, which states, The state shall establish, maintain and support a complete, adequate and integrated system of special education for the visually impaired, hearing impaired, mentally retarded persons and other types of exceptional children in all regions of the country ... Local Government units may likewise appropriate counterpart funds to supplement national funds.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

Consistent with RA 9442, An Act Amending Republic Act 7277, otherwise known as Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, and for Other Purposes, issuance of identification cards and booklets to PWDs that shall be used as proof of their status and enable them to avail themselves of the 20 % discount on medicines, medical and dental services, and other products and services identified in RA 9442; Provision of technical and financial support to strengthen PWD and Senior Citizens organizations; Conduct of capability building training for Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) heads, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers (MSWDO), Federation of Seniors Citizens Associations of the Philippines (FSCAP) regarding various laws and issuances for Senior Citizens such as RA 7432, An Act to Maximize the Contribution of Senior Citizens to Nation Building, Grant Benefits and Special Privileges and for Other Purposes; RA 7876, An Act Establishing a Senior Citizens Center in all Cities and Municipalities of the Philippines, and Appropriating Funds Therefor; and the Philippine Plan of Action for Senior Citizens 2006 2010. Establishment of Senior Citizens Centers pursuant to RA 7876

5. Conduct quarterly Gender Sensitivity Trainings to increase awareness and understanding of Anti-Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Law (RA 9262). Pursuant to RA 9262, protection orders, issued for the purpose of preventing further acts of violence against a woman or her child and granting other necessary relief, may be issued by the Punong Barangay or a Barangay Kagawad in case the former is unavailable at the time of the issuance. Barangay officials are also mandated to assist applicants in the preparation of the application. Law enforcement agents shall also extend assistance in the application for protection orders in cases brought to their attention. LGU social workers ,police officers, preferably those in charge of women and childrens desks, Punong Barangays, and Barangay Kagawads are also provided the authority to file for petition for protection orders on behalf of a victim. To fully implement RA 9262, the womens sector also proposes the establishment of womens desk in every barangay. All these entail providing officers for womens desks with the sufficient gender sensitivity training to effectively equip him/her for the job.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

6.

Provide support to organic farming Farmers are shifting from the traditional commercial pesticides and fertilizer dependent farming to organic farming. The shift is due to the cheaper cost of inputs provided by the latter, the higher demand in the market for organically grown products, and the benefits organic farming practices bring to the environment. However, shifting from the traditional to organic is not easy. It entails re-conditioning of farmlands, which in turn results in initial lowering of productivity as the farm environment adjusts to the change in agricultural practices employed in it. Also, traditionally grown products are still more preferred by most consumers due to its lower price in the market. The farmers sector is advocating that LGUs provide technical support to farmers initiatives to shift to organic farming. Also, the sector is encouraging LGUs to engage in the promotion of organic agricultural products grown by their constituents.

7. Implement measures that promote culture of safety and resiliency among constituents The Victims of Disasters and Calamities sector advocates the integration of disaster management in the planning processes of local governments as prescribed in the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan 2004 2010. Among the concrete actions proposed by the sector for LGUs to adopt are the following: Conduct risk assessment and planning within respective areas of responsibility; Integrate disaster management in the formulation of comprehensive land use plans; Enforce no-settlement policy in identified disaster risk prone areas; Create a disaster management office and build up capacities of its staff; Provide support to the implementation of barangay disaster risk management plans; and Conduct local studies on climate change adaptation strategy.

8. Establish local Schools of Living Traditions and/or Madrasas Schools of living traditions (SLT) is a program of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) implemented for the purpose of preserving cultural heritage in living form through its transmission to the next generations. It focuses on the teaching of indigenous skills and techniques to the younger generations. Rule V, Section 8 of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) mandates DepEd and the Commission on Higher Education (Ched)to establish SLTs. Madrasas on the other hand, are buildings or groups of buildings, typically including a mosque, used for teaching Islamic theology and religious law. The Indigenous Peoples (IP) sector advocates that LGUs with IP constituents identify areas where SLTs or Madrasas could be possibly built and consequently

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

provide budget allocation for its establishment. They could coordinate with NCCA, DepEd, Ched and relevant agencies in the process. An important component of SLTs shall be libraries where documents and other materials that record indigenous cultures and traditions could be stored. 9. Provide allocation to information campaigns on reproductive health The youth and students sector advocates for LGUs to incorporate in their Gender and Development (GAD) plans and budget items for an information campaign on reproductive health and population among the youth. This is to prevent teen-age pregnancies and similar unpleasant incidents. 10. Establish and operate mechanisms to promote peace and respect for human rights The sectors advocate for LGUs to promote peace and respect for human rights among its constituents. They propose that LGUs integrate human rights advocacy in their respective development plans. This includes the establishment of Barangay Human Rights Action Councils, whose members shall include basic sector organizations in the locality. Consistent with the promotion of peace, LGUs are encouraged to implement similar mechanisms that would support internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other victims of armed conflicts. Among the specific actions desired are the immediate repatriation and rehabilitation of their respective IDP constituents, and declaration of some uninfluenced municipalities as zones of peace. The children sector also stresses the need for LGUs to provide adequate facilities for the rehabilitation of children in armed conflicts (CIACs). Executive Order No. 56, Adopting the Comprehensive Program Framework for Children In Armed Conflict and Directing National Government Agencies and Local Government Units to Implement the Same mandates that all agencies involved shall ensure that actual funds, services and/or activities equivalent to at least one percent (1%) of their annual MOOE budget shall be appropriated for the implementation of this program (Sec 4). One pressing issue of the CIAC today is the lack of facilities (rehabilitation) for the CIACs, for which the LGUs are asked to give the appropriate allocation. The children sector advocates that LGUs take CIACs as a vital agenda of its local peace and security councils, committees or similar bodies. This is consistent with DILG MC 2008-126, particularly item III.3.6. (Assistance to the Children in Need of Special Protection). 11. Establish and operate mechanisms that would improve social security among basic sectors and their access to affordable and sustainable health insurance The sectors advocate that LGUs, through provincial, municipal and barangay health boards and with the participation of basic sector organizations, come up with mechanisms that would assist their constituents graduate from being indigent beneficiaries to regular paying members of the Philhealth and the Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

Social Security System (SSS). They also advocate for LGUs to link up with Philhealth and the SSS on developing indigenous schemes that would allow affordable and customized premium and payment schedules. Among the other specific actions LGUs are encouraged to undertake are the following: Adopt the DSWD Proxy Means Test in identifying indigents ; Involve Barangay Health Workers in campaigning among its constituents regarding enrolment, sustained premium collection and continuing education; Allocate budget for the provision of Philhealth cards to indigent families; Encourage constituents to enrol in SSS rather than private insurance companies; Implement regular continuing education program on how to minimize workrelated diseases in the informal economy under its Local Health Development Plan; Through local legislation, include enrolment in SSS and Philhealth as a requirement in the issuance and renewal of business permits.

12. Participate in the initiative to review RA 9344, or the Juvenile Justice Law The basic sectors ask the MSWDOs, Sangguniang Kabataans (SK) and the four Local Government Leagues, namely the League of Provinces of the Philippines(LPP), League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP), League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) and the Liga ng mga Barangay (LnB), to initiate discussions within LGUs regarding the implementation of the Juvenile Justice Law geared towards a review of its implementation. 13. Implement programs on environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development LGUs are encouraged to establish and strengthen local environment offices and other similar bodies that would work on coming up with and implementing programs to protect the environment, conserve local biodiversity and promote sustainable use of natural resources within their locality. Consistent with this advocacy is the issuance of local environment codes and implementation of solid waste management programs. The sector is also pushing for strict compliance of LGUs with RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, which requires the establishment of Materials Recovery Facilities (MRF) in every barangay or cluster of barangays. MRFs shall be established in a barangay-owned or -leased land or any suitable open space to be determined by the barangay through its Sanggunian. The MRF shall receive mixed waste for final sorting, segregation, composting, and recycling. The resulting residual wastes shall be transferred to a long term storage or disposal facility or sanitary landfill.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

14. Institute local initiatives to promote and protect migrant workers rights To combat the negative effects of migration, such as disintegration of families and difficulty of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to adapt to foreign culture, the sectors advocate that LGUs, through SWDOs, serve as initial source of information regarding the government programs to protect migrant workers. LGUs are encouraged to conduct local Pre-Employment Orientation Seminars (PEOs) through its Public Employment Service Office (PESO). PEOS are conducted to protect prospective OFWs against illegal recruitment. The Formal Labor and Migrant Workers Sector (FLMW) is also asking municipal and city governments to establish Migrant Workers Desk (MWD) where families of their OFW constituents could be assisted in verifying for the status of their family member(s) abroad. With the MWD, the OFW families need not go to Manila or other major urban centers for such purpose. 15. Establish programs for providing information, training and seminars for investments and entrepreneurship to OFW returnees The FLMW sector proposes that LGUs provide OFW returnees with information, training and seminars on investment and entrepreneurship. This is to facilitate their re-integration as workers in the local economy. 16. Establish fishery projects for the upliftment of municipal fisherfolk and source out funds thereof from the Municipal Fisheries Grant Fund pursuant to Republic Act No. 8550 Section 109 of RA 8550 otherwise known as the The Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 provides for the creation of a Fishery Grant Fund to finance fishery projects of the LGUs primarily for the upliftment of the municipal fisherfolk. The Fund is supported with One hundred million (P100,000,000.00) appropriation from the Department of Agricultures GAA allocation. 17. Support the passage of the Reproductive Health Bill.

B. Asset Reform
The following proposed actions are aimed at widening the basic sectors share of available natural and man-made resources, from which they can build their livelihood and increase their incomes. These actions shall help minimize, if not totally eliminate, iniquities in the ownership, distribution, management and control over assets such as rural and urban lands, including ancestral domains, and aquatic and marine resources. 1. Integrate the Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUP) and the Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plans (ADSDPP) Executive Order No. 72, which took effect on 25 March 1993 and RA 6170, the

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

Local Government Code of 1991, provides for the preparation and implementation of the Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) by the LGUs. Section 20 (c) of RA 7160 provides for the preparation by the LGUs of their respective CLUPs and their authorization through zoning ordinances. CLUPs shall be the primary and dominant bases for the future use of land resources, including requirements for food production, human settlements, and industrial expansion. The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Administrative Order No. 1, series of 2004, pursuant to sub-paragraph (o), Sec. 44 of IPRA provides guidelines for the formulation of ADSDPPs. The ADSDPP guarantees the exercise, enforcement and realization of the rights of the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs)/Indigenous Peoples (IPs) to self-governance and selfdetermination. The integration of the CLUP and the ADSDPP will harmonize efforts in the management, protection, and sustainability of natural resources and enable the LGUs to address the needs of the IPs in their areas. The Local Chief Executives and leagues are expected to work on the integration of the CLUP and the ADSDPP, with the ADSDPP prevailing over the CLUP in IP areas and the CLUP prevailing over the ADSDDP in non-IP areas. 2. Facilitate the turnover of all government lands (timber, pasture, concessions) within ancestral domains to the NCIP. Section 7(g) Chapter III of the IPRA provides for the right of ICCs/IPs to claim parts of reservations or the right to claim parts of the ancestral domains which have been reserved for various purposes, except those reserved and intended for common and public welfare and service. Section 52 (i) Chapter VIII of IPRA provides for the Turnover of Areas within Ancestral Domains Managed by Other Government Agencies. The Chairperson of the NCIP shall certify that the area covered is an ancestral domain. The secretaries of the Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Department of Justice, the Commissioner of the National Development Corporation, and any other government agency claiming jurisdiction over the area shall be notified thereof. Such notification shall terminate any legal basis for the jurisdiction previously claimed. The turnover will enable the NCIP to formulate and implement policies, plans and programs to recognize, protect and promote the rights of ICCs/IPs. The LGUs are expected to facilitate the turnover of the aforementioned government lands. 3. Establish Farmers Centers in all LGUs.

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

4. Establish Common Production and Merchandising Areas Section 17 of the Local Government Code, mandates the LGUs in the municipality, province and city to provide agriculture extension and on-site research services and facilities related to agriculture and fishery activities. 5. Implement RA 8435, the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 (AFMA). AFMA was signed into law in December 1997 and is geared towards industrialization and full employment based on sound agricultural development and agrarian reform. It promotes the utilization of nations resources in the most efficient and sustainable way possible by establishing a more equitable access to assets, income, basic and support services and infrastructure. It focuses resources on five (5) major concerns: poverty alleviation and social equity, food security, global competitiveness, sustainable development, and income profitability especially for farmers and fisher folks. Under AFMA the LGUs shall be responsible for delivering direct agriculture and fisheries extension services (RA 8435, Sec 90). The law further specifies the activities that would rightfully fall under extension such as training services, farm or business advisory services, demonstration services and information and communication support services through tri media (RA 8435, Sec 87). 6. Prohibit conversion of arable lands for residential and commercial purposes. Section 20 of the Local Government Code gives LGUs the power to reclassify lands in their respective jurisdiction. As such a city or municipality may through an ordinance passed by the Sanggunian after conducting public hearings for the purpose, authorize the reclassification of agricultural lands and provide for the manner of their utilization or disposition 7. Support Senate Bill 2323 (amending Magna Carta for Disabled Persons) Senate Bill 2323, authored by Senator Loren Legarda, seeks to amend Sec. 40 of Republic Act 7277 (the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons) to pave the way for the establishment of a Persons with Disabilities Office (PDAO) in each province, city, and town. The creation of the PDAO will greatly strengthen the existing law for the maximum benefits of disabled persons. The LGUs are asked to pass resolutions to support this bill. 8. Establish Barangay Livelihood Centers Section 4 of RA 9509, the Barangay Livelihood and Skills Act of 2008, provides that a livelihood and skills training center shall be established in every fourth, fifth and sixth class municipality: provided, that other municipalities shall be covered by this Act upon determination of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), taking into account the municipality's population density

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

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and demographic status, poverty incidence, income class, level of economic development, employment and productivity levels, abundance of raw materials which have potential for commercial production, and the availability and accessibility of existing livelihood skills training programs and services. Section 6 of RA 9509 mandates the municipal government to take charge of instituting and maintaining the center, with the assistance of the Municipal Advisory Board through the leadership of the municipal mayor. In addition, the Board shall provide policy advice and direction to guide the development of plans, programs and activities of the Center. The LGUs are expected to provide NAPC the data needed in determining whether or not there is a need to establish a center in a certain municipality. 9. Support the passage of the Land Administration Reform Act (LARA) LARA is a legislative proposal that will lay the foundation for a responsive and efficient land administration and management (LAM) system in the country. It seeks to integrate the key land administration agencies, namely the Department of Justices (DOJ) Land Registration Authority (LRA) and its Registry of Deeds (RoD), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Land Management Bureau and Land Management Services (LMB/LMS), and the attachment of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), into a single agency to be called the Land Administration Authority (LAA). The expertise of each agency will produce a synergistic effect towards addressing issues on policies, tenure security, land valuation, and land taxation. LARA also provides for the establishment of a Land Adjudication Board (LAB) that will serve as a quasi-judicial arm of the LAA to relieve the court of its borderland-related cases. Moreover, the key stakeholders participation in policy formulation is also encouraged through the creation of a Stakeholders Advisory Committee (SAC). The LGU leagues, LGUs and the basic sectors are expected to pass resolutions in support of the bill and create a broad coalition to facilitate the bills implementation after its passage into law. 10. Create Local Housing Boards Executive Order No. 708 series of 2008, amending Executive Order No. 152 series of 2002, devolves the function of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) as the clearing house for the conduct of demolition and eviction activities involving the homeless and underprivileged citizens to the respective LGUs that have jurisdiction over the proposed demolition and eviction activities of government agencies. Section 2 of this EO mandates the LGUs to create local housing boards or any similar body through an appropriate ordinance before conducting the clearinghouse functions granted to them.

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

11. Prohibit conversion of mangroves into fishponds Section 2 (g) of RA 8550, or the Philippine Fisheries Code, ensures the conservation, protection and sustained management of the countrys fishery and aquatic resources. Section 94, Chapter VI Prohibitions and Penalties of the said RA states that it is unlawful for any person to convert mangroves into fishponds or for any other purposes. The section also provides the penalties for the violation of the provision of this section. Section 16 of RA 8550 states that the municipal/city government shall have jurisdiction over municipal waters and shall be responsible for the management, conservation, development, protection, utilization and disposition of all fish and fishery/aquatic resources within their respective municipal waters. Specifically, the code provides authority to the municipal/city government in consultation with the Fisheries Aquatic Resources Management Council (FARMC) to enact appropriate ordinances for this purpose and in accordance with the National Fisheries Policy which shall be reviewed by the respective Sanggunian of the province. The LGUs, likewise, shall also enforce all fishery laws, rules and regulation as well as valid fishery ordinances enacted by the municipal/city council. 12. Prohibit the destruction of coral and sea grass Section 91 (Ban on Coral Exploitation and Exportation) of the RA 8550 states that it shall be unlawful for any person or corporation to gather, possess, sell or export ordinary precious and semi-precious corals, whether raw or processed form, except for scientific or research purposes. The said section also provides the penalties for the violation of the provision of this section. Section 92 (Ban on Muro-Ami, Other Methods and Gear Destructive to Coral Reefs and Other Marine) states that it shall be unlawful for any person, natural or judicial, to fish with gear method that destroy coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other fishery marine life habitat. Section 19 Registry of Municipal Fisherfolk states that LGUs shall be responsible for maintaining a registry of municipal fisherfolk, who are fishing or may desire to fish in municipal waters for the purpose of determining priorities among them, of limiting entry into the municipal waters, and of monitoring fishing activities and /or other related purposes: Provided, That the FARMC shall submit to the LGU the list of priorities for its consideration. Furthermore, the LGUs shall also maintain a registry of municipal fishing vessels by type of gear and other boat particulars with the assistance of the FARMC. 13. Provide at least 10% counterpart in all land acquisition projects of urban poor communities The idea is for the government, through the LGUs, to subsidize at least 10% of the cost of all land acquisition projects of urban poor communities.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

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There are no existing legislations to support this, except for an ordinance passed in Cagayan de Oro City. The LGUs are expected to replicate the CDO ordinance. 14. Support the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) The purpose of the Convention on CRPD is to promote, protect, and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity. The Convention on CRPD was signed by the Philippines on September 25, 2007 and ratified on April 4, 2008. The more than 100 countries that signed the convention declared to the world that they recognize that PWDs have certain rights, including the right to full inclusion, equality of opportunity, and accessibility. These countries have also declared that it is their responsibility to ensure that PWDs within their borders are able to enjoy these rights. The LGUs are expected to come up with comprehensive programs for PWDs and source or allocate funds for their implementation. The LGUs will ensure the participation of the PWDs in the formulation (especially the identification of needs), development, and implementation of said programs. 15. Allocate funds for agricultural support services in newly installed ARCs Section 17 of RA 7160, the Local Government Code, mandates the LGUs in the municipality, province and city to provide agriculture extension and on-site research services and facilities related to agriculture and fishery activities. The Bicameral Conference Committee on the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER) Law, agreed to allocate P150 Billion pesos to finance the implementation of CARP over the next five years, to fund the land acquisition and distribution and farmer support services and delivery of agrarian justice until 2013. The DAR has created a Policy Task Force specifically constituted "to formulate the necessary revisions or amendments to existing administrative issuances and implementing rules and regulations (IRRs), and to craft the new issuances that are requisite to the procedures and guidelines for land tenure improvement and agrarian justice delivery." 16. Establish an Urban Poor Affairs Office The office may be established through an ordinance. It is aimed at providing focused support to capacity building for the urban poor sectors, most specially in the management of the Community Mortgage Program. The advocacy supports that of the Presidential Commission on the Urban Poor. 17. Prohibit dredging and quarrying activities Chapter 2 Section 17 (b) (3) (iii), Chapter 3 Article 1 Section 26, and Article III

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

section 458 (a) (1) (vi) of RA 7160, the Local Government Code indicate the roles of the LGUs and the National Government in environmental concerns. Section 8 of DENR-Public Estates Authority Department Administrative Order-2005 (The Implementing Rules and Regulations of Executive Order No. 153) indicates the areas covered by dredging and quarrying activities. 18. Facilitate titling of ancestral domains Chapter III (Rights to Ancestral Domains) Sec. 11. Recognition of Ancestral Domain Rights of the IPRA states that The rights of ICCs/IPs to their ancestral domains by virtue of Native Title shall be recognized and respected. Formal recognition, when solicited by ICCs/IPs concerned, shall be embodied in a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT), which shall recognize the title of the concerned ICCs/IPs over the territories identified and delineated. Where IPs are present, The LGUs are expected to facilitate titling of such lands.

C. Participation in Governance
The following proposed actions aim to promote political equity and ensure citizen and basic sector participation in development processes that affects peoples rights, interests and welfare as a way toward full empowerment: 1. Ensure representation and meaningful participation of basic sector representatives in the Local Development Council and other special bodies The Local Development Councils and the Sangguniang are the two premier local government organs for plan and policy making at the Local Government Units. Thus, according to participatory development principles and approach, on which the formation of the Basic Sector Councils in the NAPC is based, the basic sectors, through its organized groups at the local levels should be given voice and representation in these organs. Their participation are mandated in various laws, chief among them is RA 7160, the Local Government Code. Similar representation is asked for other special bodies, like the Local School Board, Local Health Board, Local Housing Board and the Local Peace and Order Council. There are other bodies that were created in support of certain programs. These are Local/Barangay Human Rights Action Center (DILG MC 94-194), Local/Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (DILG MC 2008-126), Urban Poor Affairs Office, Local/Barangay Micro-Business Entrepreneurship Unit, and the Local Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Coordinating Councils (Sec 8, RA 8980). Sec. 8 of RA 8980, An Act Promulgating a Comprehensive Policy and a National System for Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), Providing Funds Therefore and for Other Purposes, provides two slots for representatives from NGOs in these bodies. The sector proposes that one of the slots be provided to children associations.

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2. Conduct poverty mapping using Community Based Monitoring System (CBMS) tool. Pursuant to the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991, there is a need for support mechanisms for the implementation of the decentralization policy. Using universal household survey, the CBMS tool provides disaggregated data for planning, program formulation, policy impact and poverty monitoring at the local level. It has been adopted by the national government agencies, particularly the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as the local poverty monitoring system and a tool for localizing the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). Its use has been given further official cover by resolutions of support from the NEDAs Social Development Committee and the National Statistical Coordination Board. Efforts are made with the help of NGAs, non-government organizations (NGOs) and donor agencies to scale up the implementation of CBMS among the LGUs. 3. Involve the basic sectors in drafting international treaties and laws with implications to them, 4. Implement provisions of international law and treaties relevant to the LGUs, and activate, strengthen, organize related councils for the implementation of these treaties. 5. Activate the Barangay Human Rights Action Center (BHRAC) and barangay council for the protection of children. The BHRAC is a nationwide program that aims to mobilize constituencies at the barangay level for human rights protection and advocacy. This is consistent with DILG MC 94-194, dated Oct. 27, 1994. The program aims to give ordinary citizens the central role in the implementation of human rights promotion and protection services at the grassroots and at the same time bring services closer to the people specially those not strategically within the reach of the Commission on Human Rights. A BHRAC shall be headed by a Barangay Human Rights Action Officer who shall oversee the centers operation, and who is chosen through viva voce voting by the majority of those present in the barangay assembly called for the purpose of nominating and electing candidates. The BHRAC shall include the following units: complaints processing, coordination and referral, mobilization and information and education. The action point on children is pursuant to Memorandum Circular 2008-126, with the subject Monitoring the Functionality of the Local / Barangay Council for the Protection of Children issued by DILG 6. Issue local ordinances/resolutions that support the advocacy of the basic sectors Some of the advocacies of the basic sectors are not yet covered by existing legislations and/or issuances that could support its implementation by local

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

governments. In fact, a number are still legislative agenda (House and Senate Bills) yet to be passed in Congress. In the absence of supporting laws and administrative issuances that would direct a particular agendums implementation by the local governments, basic sectors are advocating that LGUs instead pass local ordinances that could provide framework for their adoption of the basic sector agenda. Among the proposed actions for the LGUs which may be covered by ordinances or resolutions are as follows: Formulation of municipal and city comprehensive shelter plans. To address housing concerns especially in urban areas, the urban poor sector proposes that LGUs come up with a shelter plan that could pave the way for implementing socialized housing schemes. This involves identifying areas that could be developed for such purpose. Support the passage of the Magna Carta of Students Rights Bill The Magna Carta for Students Rights Bill (HB 17) seeks to guarantee the rights of students to organize and run an autonomous student council or government; to publish and circulate an independent school paper; to be admitted in schools without undue discrimination; to take periodic examinations despite deficiency in tuition fee payments; to due process in disciplinary proceedings; and to adequate academic and welfare services consistent with the schools economic capacity. The YS sector asks local governments to issue resolutions signifying the LGUs support to the passage of the bill.

7. Clarify areas of LGU intervention in the governance of cooperatives especially on electric and other utilities with respect to the autonomy of cooperatives 8. Issue ordinances or policy statements, giving cooperatives the right of first refusal to operate government facilities such as water and other utilities, garbage collection and processing, market and warehouse. 9. Ensure cooperatives pro-active participation in the Cooperative Development Councils The Cooperatives Sector adopts the foregoing based on the following legal issuances: Republic Act No. 9520 otherwise known as the "Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008" specifically Article 9 thereof enumerates the cooperatives powers and capacities. One of which states that cooperatives shall have the right to avail themselves of preferential rights granted to cooperatives under Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code, and other laws, particularly those in the grant of franchises to establish, construct, operate and maintain ferries, wharves, markets or slaughterhouses and to lease public utilities, including access to extension and on-site research services and facilities related to agriculture and fishery activities.

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10. Implement strictly or issue corresponding local ordinances in relation to Articles 60 and 61 of RA 9520 otherwise known as the "Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008". Article 60 of RA 9520 provides for the tax treatment of cooperative and states that duly registered cooperatives under the Code which do not transact any business with non-members or the general public shall not be subject to any taxes and fees imposed under the internal revenue laws and other tax laws. Article 61, for its part, provides that cooperatives transacting business with both members and non-members shall not be subjected to tax on their transactions with members. It likewise enumerates other exemptions to be enjoyed by cooperatives. 11. Issue ordinance/guidelines relaxing the tedious and expensive tricycle franchising process pursuant to EO 712 Executive Order No. 712 dated March 11, 2008, directs the Immediate Review of Existing Orders, Rules and Regulations Issued by Local Government Units Concerning Public Transportation, Including the Grant of Franchises to Tricycles, Establishment and Operation of Transport Terminals, Authority to Issue Traffic Citation Tickets, And Unilateral Rerouting Schemes of Public Utility Vehicles, And for Other Purposes. Similarly, Memorandum Circular No. 2006-70 issued by the DILG states that pursuant to Section 133 (e) of the Local Government Code, all local chief executives are enjoined to refrain from enforcing any existing ordinance authorizing the levy of fees and taxes on inter-province transport of goods, regulatory fees from passengers in local ports, and other additional taxes, fees or charges in any form upon transporting goods and passengers. Thus, the Workers in the Informal Sector, particularly the Small Transport Subsector, proposes the implementation of EO 712 consistent with the Presidents general supervision over all government units. 12. Issue policy and guidelines pertaining to the implementation of the Barangay Micro-Business Enterprise (BMBE) Law particularly on the relaxation of business permits requirements and taxes for community based livelihood/group enterprises for the first two or three years in operation, with preference to start ups and business below P500,000 capital Republic Act No. 9178, the BMBE Law of 2002, particularly Section 4 thereof provides that LGUs are encouraged to establish a One-Stop-Business Registration Center to handle the efficient registration and processing of permits/licenses of BMBEs. Likewise, LGUs shall make a periodic evaluation of the BMBE's financial status for monitoring and reporting purposes. The law likewise provides that as much as possible, BMBEs shall be subject to minimal bureaucratic requirements and reasonable fees and charges.

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

According to the Workers in the Informal Sector, the long list of clearances needed to secure a Mayors Business Permit discourages many existing and prospective micro-entrepreneurs. Other fees and charges required are HOA clearance, barangay clearance, Fire, DOLE, DTI, and garbage 13. Incorporate Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Sectoral Agenda in local development plans. The PWD Council proposes the inclusion of the PWD agenda in local development plans, and ensure PWD representation and participation in the LDCs. These actions are covered by the Philippine commitment to observe the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) . Section 5 of the Article on States Obligations explicitly identified the jurisdictional extent of the CRPD, which include LGUs. Also, there is RA 7277, Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, that recognizes the rights and agendas of the disabled persons. 14. Enhance services for PWDs The LGU services are covered by Section 29 of the GAA, which , allocates 1% of agency and LGU funds for PWDs and Senior Citizens, specifically for providing the following services to them: social welfare, livelihood, health and education, and ensuring PWD access to justice through the Katarungan Pambarangay. Funds too may be utilized to strengthen the organization of PWDs so as they could fully participate in governance. Special attention should be given further to improving services to women, mothers, girls including women with disabilities; Indigenous Peoples with disabilities. Ensure that grants, loans and other types of assistances provided by international funders and multilaterals like the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, USAID etc, are incorporated with "Disability Components." Since LGUs are provided authority to acquire loans and grants from these international sources, they too by the effect of Section 5 of States Obligations are mandated to ensure "disability components" in their negotiations. Participation of persons with disabilities right from the planning, negotiation, formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation is mandated too 15. Issue local resolutions and ordinances in support of PWD laws and policies LGUs may initiate ordinances and resolutions in support of all laws with local application mandates including that of UNCRPD and other international treaties. Such may be incorporated in the committee structures of both the executive and legislative bodies of the LGUs. It is in fact a mandate as stated by UNCRPD.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

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The DILG having issued a Certificate of Concurrence to the UNCRPD which became among the bases for the Philippine ratification of CRPD may be tapped to ensure application of CRPD provisions down to the local government. 16. Ensure Indigenous Peoples (IP) sectoral representation in all offices/departments in the Local Government Units Section 16 of IPRA provides that ICCs/IPs have the right to participate fully, if they so choose, at all levels of decision making in matters which may affect their rights, lives and destinies through procedures determined by them as well as to maintain and develop their own indigenous political structures. Consequently, the State shall ensure that the ICCs/IPs shall be given mandatory representation in policymaking bodies and other local legislative councils. 17. Eliminate gender bias in policies and procedures 18. Allocate 5% of gross budget for Gender and Development activities This proposed action is based on Article II, Section 14 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the State recognizes the role of women in nation-building, and shall ensure the fundamental equality before the law of women and men as well as Republic Act 7192, an act promoting the integration of women as full and equal partners of men in development and nation building and for other purposes. Section 3 of the Republic Act 7192 (Women in Development and Nation Building Act) mandates all government departments and agencies to review and revise their regulation, circulars, issuances and procedures to remove gender bias Its Section 5 (Equality in Capacity to Act) states, Women of legal age, regardless of civil status, shall have the capacity to act and enter into contracts which shall in every respect to be equal to that of men under similar circumstances. Furthermore the said section also provides that in all contractual situations where married men have the capacity to act, married women shall have equal rights. 19. Strengthen the Local Poverty Reduction Action Team (LPRAT) in LGUs With the LPRATs, the local level will be able to synchronize moves in harmony with the programs of the national government focused on alleviating poverty in the country especially in regions identified as poorest of the poor. The LPRAT is mandated to monitor and evaluate the implementations and impacts of anti-poverty initiatives, particularly KALAHI, the flagship program of the Arroyo administration. 20. Institutionalize the Community Driven Development (CDD) Approach in LGU planning and This action seeks to involve the Basic Sectors in the formulation and the design of the KALAHI type programs, specially under the DSWD-spearheaded proposed KALAHICIDDS II program Basic sector involvement is desired in all aspects of project development from project identification to mobilization and monitoring and evaluation.

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

21. Create local mechanisms for LGU-Basic Sector This asks the LGUs to create local mechanisms such as the Local Poverty Action Team/Similar Bodies to come up with a Local Poverty Action Plan that will specifically address their marginalized/vulnerable sectors among the local constituents. These may be based on Section 12 of RA 8425 (AFMA) and MC 33 (2002) which institionalizes the KALAHI as the governments program for poverty reduction.

D. Livelihood and Employment


The following proposed actions aim to increase employment and livelihood opportunities for the basic sectors and strengthen their capacities to engage in profitable enterprises: 1. Promote the organization of PWDs and engage them in productive undertakings Section 40 of Republic Act No. 7277, otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, explicitly provides that local government units shall promote the establishment of organizations of disabled persons in their respective territorial jurisdictions. National agencies and local government units may enter into joint ventures with organizations or associations of disabled persons to explore livelihood opportunities and other undertakings that shall enhance the health, physical fitness and the economic and social well-being of disabled persons. 2. Employ PWDs in the LGU Section 5 of the same law also provides that no disabled persons shall be denied access to opportunities for suitable employment. A qualified disabled employee shall be subject to the same terms and conditions of employment and the same compensation, privileges, benefits, fringe benefits, incentives or allowances as a qualified able-bodied person. Five percent (5%) of all casual, emergency and contractual positions in the Department of Social Welfare and Development; Health; Education, Culture and Sports; and other government agencies, offices or corporations engaged in social development shall be reserved for disabled persons. Executive Order No. 417, which directs the Implementation of the Economic Independence Program for Persons with Disabilities, provides that local government units are also enjoined to employ PWDs whenever applicable (Section 3). It is likewise stated therein that all government offices, national and local, are also enjoined to reserve a display space for PWDs products and services in their respective offices upon request and where appropriate. 3. Implement gender-responsive and results-oriented livelihood programs and projects for women This involves capacity-building on eco-enterprise, provision of funds for start-up livelihood projects, and ensuring access to credit, technology and market for women entrepreneurs.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

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Section 5 of Republic Act No. 7192, otherwise known as the Women in Development and Nation Building Act, directs LGUs to mainstream Gender and Development (GAD) in their respective programs, activities and projects. Executive Order No. 273 issued on September 8, 1995, entitled Approving and Adopting the Philippine Plan for Gender-Responsive Development, 1995 to 2025, specifies the services that must be implemented for women in relation to those stipulated in RA No. 7160. Programs, activities and projects proposed by the Women Sector for implementation by the LGUs are as follows: 4. Hire Indigenous Peoples as teachers for Indigenous Cultural Communities Republic Act No. 8190 or the Localization Law requires that a teacherapplicant must be a bona fide resident of the Barangay, Municipal/City, and Province where the school is located and where the vacant item is available. Thus, pursuant to Republic Act No. 8371, the IPRA, and with due recognition of the Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) distinct characteristics and identity in consideration of the foregoing, LGUs may endorse to the Department of Education or Commission on Higher Education, qualified indigenous peoples teachers for indigenous cultural communities. 5. Hire Indigenous Peoples for the Bantay-Gubat or Task Force Kalikasan Program; Allocate funds for upland animals and vegetables production/ marketing, and Implement the Katutubong Bigasan ni Gloria or KABIG. Sec. 25 (Basic Services) of Republic At 8371, otherwise known as the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997, states that the ICC/IP have the right to special measures for the immediate, effective and continuing improvement of their economic and social conditions, including in the areas of employment, vocational training and retraining, housing, sanitation, health and social security. Particular attention shall be paid to the rights and special needs of indigenous women, elderly, youth, children and differently-abled persons. Accordingly, the State shall guarantee the right of ICCs/IPs to government's basic services which shall include, but not limited to water and electrical facilities, education, health and infrastructure. Section 17 of Republic Act 7160 (the Local Government Code of the Philippines), mandates the LGUs in the municipality, province and city to provide agriculture extension and on-site research services and facilities related to agriculture and fishery activities. 6. Implement the Contractor Requirement provision of Republic Act 6685 Section 1 of Republic Act No. 6685, otherwise known as An Act Requiring Private Contractors to Whom National, Provincial, City and Municipal Public Works Projects Have Been Awarded under Contract to Hire at Least Fifty Percent (50%) of the Unskilled and at Least Thirty Percent (30%) of the Skilled Labor Requirements to be Taken from the Available Bona Fide Residents in the Province, City or Municipality in which the Projects are to be Undertaken, and Penalizing Those Who Have Failed to Do So, states that all private contractors, including subcontractors, to whom awards are made for the undertaking of

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

national and local public works projects funded by either the National Government or any local government unit including foreign-assisted projects must hire at least fifty percent (50%) of the unskilled and thirty percent (30%) of the skilled labor requirements from the unemployed bona fide and actual residents in the province, city and municipality who are ready, willing and able as determined by the governor, city mayor or municipal mayor concerned where the projects are to be undertaken. 7. Establish Business Development Centers for the informal workers Section 17 of Republic Act 7160 (the Local Government Code of the Philippines) mandates the LGUs in the municipality, province and city to provide basic services and facilities that include agricultural support services, infrastructure facilities, and information services. 8. Allocate funds for loans to cooperatives Section 17 (b.3.ix) of Republic Act 7160 (the Local Government Code of the Philippines) mandates the LGUs to provide basic services and facilities on Investment support services, including access to credit financing. 9. Provide access of urban poor or indigenous peoples organizations to credit facilities through NGO conduits Section 17 (b.3.ix) of Republic Act 7160 (the Local Government Code of the Philippines) mandates the LGUs to provide basic services and facilities on Investment support services, including access to credit financing.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

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CONCLUSION: THE WAY FORWARD


The documentation of this agenda is an important step toward strengthening BSLGU engagement. At the very least, it informs the basic sector organizations in and out of BS Councils, as well as the LGUs, about the development issues and concerns where both parties can work together, and deliver effective development results. But what would really matter is that all or some elements of this agenda are recognized and adopted by the LGUs as their own agenda. This means that the contents of this agenda should find their way in their development planning processes and into the main outputs of these processes, their Comprehensive Land Use Plans and their Comprehensive Development Plans. Further on, and most importantly, the LGUs should be able to allocate funds and other resources to carry out the actions plans that reflect, or emanate from their ownership of, the contents of this agenda. This is a challenge that would involve multi-stakeholdership, and not just from the BS and the LGUs. It would also involve the government and non-government agencies, including local and foreign funding entities. There are two main distinct, but related action areas where the stakeholders can converge: continuing information, education and communication (IEC) support , and advocacy, programs for this agenda and capacity building. The IEC and advocacy program should be able to sustain a stream of information toward the target audience --- mainly the whole array of LGU officials from the career officers and staff of the planning and development offices to the elective officials of the sanggunians and the chief executives themselves. Also to be targeted are the members of the BS and the general public, so that they, too, become aware and understand the agenda, and themselves become part of an ever increasing cadre of advocates. Such a program should be able to span space and time, that is, all political-administrative jurisdictions and over a considerable period. There can be no illusion that successful advocacy of this agenda will happen overnight; it involves a continuing process. Needless to say, the message bearers should primarily be the BS, supported by their partneragencies in the NAPC and in its regional counterpart, the Regional Kalahi Convergence Groups. The capacity-building program should be targeted primarily both at the BS and the LGUs. The former should be trained in IEC and advocacy, so that they are able to perform actions as indicated above. Apart from this , they should be trained in related skills, like networking and alliance building, negotiations, and all other skills

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Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

that relate to successfully engaging the LGUs primarily, and other social sectors, secondarily. The latter should be capacitated to be able to appreciate, and then carry out, the action plans, as suggested by the BS in this agenda. All these of courses of action would require resources. Underpinning them therefore should be an advocacy with donor organizations. This agenda should then be disseminated among members of the donor community, with the plea for support. The documentation of the BS agenda is timely. At this time, most bilateral and multi-lateral foreign funding institutions are updating their assistance frameworks. Let this document then be offered as inputs to the process, toward ensuring inclusivity of their frameworks. Finally, it is hoped that this planning tool and advocacy product, and the process that yielded it, becomes a living tradition in the NAPC. This means that both the formulation or updating and the publication of this material become a periodic activity, generating a constantly evolving process and product, in the years ahead.

Proposed LGU Policy and Program Support for the Basic Sectors

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YOUR LEAD PARTNERS IN THE NAPC


In the Secretariat DOMINGO F. PANGANIBAN Secretary/Lead Convenor CONSUELO A. DY Undersecretary Catherine Mae C. Santos Assistant Secretary Agnes Catherine T. Miranda OIC-Director Macropolicy Unit Florante Rosal OIC- Director Microfinance Unit In the Basic Sector Councils SR Josephine Parilla Workers in the Informal Sector SR Rogelio Amatorio, Jr. Fisherfolk Sector SR Alexander Macatual Children Sector SR Deanna Gregorio Person with Disabilities Sector SR Juanito de la Cruz Senior Citizens Sector SR Artiso Mandawa Indigenous Peoples Sector OIC Deborah Cabanag Youth and Student Sector SR Esteban Masagca Victims of Disasters and Calamities SR Cresente Paez Cooperative Sector OIC Karen Taada Non-Government Organizations SR Alejandro Villaviza Formal Labor and Migrant Workers OIC Florencia Dorotan Women Sector OIC Ric Domingo Urban Poor Sector OIC Vicente Fabe Farmers Sector Dolores DQ Castillo Assistant Secretary Sem H. Cordial OIC-Director Localization Unit/Basic Sector Unit Elmer P. Gutierrez OIC-Supervisor Admin and Finance Unit

NATIONAL ANTI-POVERTY COMMISSION


3/F DA-ATI Building, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City Tel. Nos.: (02) 4265028, 4265019, 4264965 Fax No.: (02) 9279838 Website: www.napc.gov.ph

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