A landmark measure requiring prior consultation, coordination, local clearance, and transparency before any national government infrastructure project can commence within the City of Bacolod, was approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod on third and final reading yesterday.
Authored by Councilor Caesar Distrito and co-authored by Councilors Em Legaspi-Ang, Celia Matea Flor, Dindo Ramos, Lady Gles Gonzales-Pallen, and Pao Sy, the ordinance is titled the “National Infrastructure Projects Prior LGU Consultation and Transparency Ordinance of Bacolod City.”
The ordinance mandates that national agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), and project proponents must first conduct formal consultation meetings with the Office of the City Mayor, the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and affected barangays, including presentation of project details such as environmental and social impacts, traffic and safety measures, and implementation schedules.
It also requires that a Resolution of No Objection (RONO) from both the concerned barangay and the Sangguniang Panlungsod be secured as part of project compliance before the issuance of local permits or commencement of construction. Inaction for 30 days upon submission, will be considered as deemed approval by the local offices.
“This is about good governance and protecting Bacolodnons. National infrastructure projects are welcome, but they must be harmonized with local development plans, public safety, environmental safeguards, and the welfare of the communities affected. Prior consultation is not a mere courtesy, it is a legal and moral requirement.” Distrito explained.
Distrito emphasized that the measure institutionalizes the principles under the Local Government Code and reinforces the role of LGUs in ensuring transparency and accountability for projects that directly affect city residents.
The ordinance strengthens coordination and prevents disruptive implementation. “We’ve seen projects happen where the community is informed too late, or impacts are not fully addressed. With this ordinance, we establish clear procedures so that implementation is orderly, responsible, and aligned with the needs of Bacolod,” said Ang, co-author of the ordinance.
Flor, also a co-author, underscored the importance of involving barangays and ensuring public trust “Barangays are the frontline of governance. Consultation ensures that the voices of residents are heard before projects begin. This ordinance promotes transparency, participation, and accountability—principles that strengthen public confidence in government.”
Ramos pointed to the practical benefits of requiring disclosure and monitoring. “When project details are clearly presented and properly monitored, we prevent avoidable problems such as traffic disruption, unsafe work sites, and conflicts on the ground. This measure makes sure the right information is available and that stakeholders are part of the process.”
Gonzales-Pallen, another co-author, highlighted the measure’s emphasis on transparency and public access to information. “People have the right to know what projects are being implemented in their communities – how much they cost, who is implementing them, and what the impacts are. The ordinance ensures that information is posted and accessible, both online and onsite, for the public to see.”
Sy emphasized that the ordinance will encourage discipline and compliance among implementing agencies and contractors. “This ordinance sets clear expectations: consult first, disclose information, and comply with local requirements. It is a safeguard so that development happens with responsibility, transparency, and respect for the city and its communities.”
Among its key provisions, the ordinance designates the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) as the secretariat responsible for receiving applications and scheduling consultations, and for maintaining a registry of covered projects and consultation minutes. The City Legal Office is tasked to review legal compliance and recommend action for violations.
The ordinance also requires project proponents to publish and post project details within 15 days from issuance of the City Council endorsement or Resolution of No Objection, including the project name and description, implementing agency and contractor, project cost and funding source, location maps, affected barangays, and summaries of consultations and environmental/social assessments.
For non-compliance, the City Mayor, through the City Legal Office, may issue a Cease-and-Desist Order (CDO) to stop implementation, and violators may face administrative action, fines of at least P5,000 per day, and possible imprisonment as provided under the Local Government Code.
The measure will take effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation in Bacolod City, upon final approval.*
