Revitalizing the Philippines Mining Industry: A Pillar for Inclusive and Resilient Economic Growth and Development
ULAP President Gov. Dax Cua participated as a panelist in the event titled "Revitalizing the Philippines Mining Industry: A Pillar for Inclusive and Resilient Economic Growth and Development." The event, organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Stratbase ADR Institute, aimed to explore sustainable practices and the socio-economic potential of the mining sector.
In his speech, Gov. Cua highlighted the crucial role of Local Government Units (LGUs) in ensuring sustainable mining operations. He emphasized, "LGUs are at the forefront of enforcing environmental standards and safety protocols in mining operations within their jurisdictions. Through rigorous permit issuance and monitoring, LGUs will be able to ensure that mining activities adhere to sustainable practices and ESG principles, mitigating adverse environmental impacts and safeguarding community welfare."
Gov. Cua also stressed the importance of investing in the technical capacities of LGUs to enhance regulatory oversight and compliance. He pointed out that local communities should benefit from mining activities through job creation, infrastructure development, and economic diversification. Referring to the Local Government Code, he noted, "The proceeds from the share of local government units shall be appropriated to finance local development and livelihood projects."
The event underscored the need for transparency, effective governance, and strong community engagement to harness the full potential of the mining industry.
World Bank and ULAP Engage in Productive Dialogue to Strengthen Local Governance in the Philippines
Taguig City, Metro Manila — Senior officials from the World Bank and the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) convened on 6 May 2024 to explore potential engagements to strengthen support for local governments in the Philippines and identify avenues for deeper collaboration.
The meeting, held in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, provided a platform for meaningful exchanges between key World Bank officials led by Mr. Ndiamé Diop, Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand, and Ms. Anna Wellenstein, Regional Director of Sustainable Development Practice Group for East Asia and the Pacific, and ULAP representatives led by its National President, Governor Dax Cua. Joining Gov. Cua were Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor of the Province of Iloilo, Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza of the Province of Cotabato, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez of Bacolod City, Mayor Germelina Singson-Goulart of Caoayan, Ilocos Sur, BM Jessica Dy of Brgy. San Fabian, Echague, Isabela, BM Ma. Martina L. Gimenez of Brgy. San Miguel, Tanauan, Leyte, and Undersecretary Odilon Pasaraba of the Department of the Interior and Local Government. Also present during the dialogue were the ULAP Secretariat, Quezon City Local Economic and Investment Promotions Office Head Jay Gatmaitan, League of Cities of the Philippines Executive Director Veron Hitosis, and League of Municipalities of the Philippines Deputy Executive Director Vingaye Pizarro.
The agenda featured World Bank’s presentation of its sustainable development programs in the country particularly on urban resilience and disaster, water, agriculture, and environment, natural resources, and blue economy. Meanwhile, ULAP National President Governor Dax Cua outlined ULAP’s activities and programs, local government programs, challenges, and opportunities. Governors and mayors present also shared firsthand experiences and strategic priorities from their respective local government units, enriching the dialogue with practical insights.
Mr. Ndiamé Diop shared insights into the World Bank's interventions, stating, "Our goal is to help design projects that truly meet the needs of local communities. Development is local, and we are committed to supporting initiatives that have a strong local impact."
"We look forward to identifying synergies with ULAP to scale up successful projects and empower local governments in driving sustainable development," Ms. Anna Wellenstein added.
The dialogue also discussed challenges faced by local governments, including infrastructure, disaster response, water management, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. ULAP emphasized the need for capital investments, technical expertise, and direct partnerships with the World Bank to address resource constraints and enhance service delivery.
"We are encouraged by the productive dialogue with World Bank today and look forward to advancing our collaboration to empower local governments and drive sustainable development outcomes in the Philippines. The local government units are your partners in national development. The future is local!" remarked Gov. Cua.
ULAP Advocates Voluntary GSIS Contributions for Qualified Elected Officials to Fulfill Contribution Years
In a significant development, the House Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization, under the leadership of Congressman Edwin Olivarez, has approved a crucial bill aimed at amending the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) law to address the retirement benefit challenges faced by elected officials who have not completed the minimum 15 years of government service. This legislative move was the focus of a recent hearing held at the Batasan Pambansa on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.
During the hearing, Councilor Atty. Raul R. Corro, the PCL National Chairman and Chairman for Advocacy and Policy of ULAP, delivered a compelling opening statement acknowledging the pressing need for House Bill No. 8858. This bill, entitled "An Act Providing an Option for Qualified Elected Officials to Pay Voluntary Contribution to the GSIS," seeks to enable elected officials to complete the required years of service to qualify for retirement benefits.
The proposed bill aims to rectify the disconnect between the GSIS law's provisions and the realities faced by elected officials whose terms are limited by the Constitution. Councilor Corro argued that elected officials, deriving their mandates directly from the people through elections, deserve fair access to retirement benefits equivalent to their appointive counterparts.
The approval of House Bill No. 8858 at the committee level marks a significant milestone in addressing the retirement benefit disparities faced by elected officials. As advocacy efforts continue to gain momentum, ULAP remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting equitable policies that uphold the welfare and rights of government employees across the Philippines.
Empowering Filipino Cancer Warriors: ULAP Supports Forum Launch
On April 30, 2024, ULAP, represented by Finance Director Maricor Cauton and ICT Officer Joshua Gonzales participated in the CANCER WARRIOR PH FORUM held at the Pool House, 6/F Grand Hyatt Manila in BGC, Taguig City. This event, organized by Genelab PH, brought together stakeholders and advocates dedicated to advancing cancer awareness, prevention, and treatment across the Philippines.
ULAP's involvement in the CANCER WARRIOR PH FORUM highlights the role of LGUs in promoting community-based cancer care and support services. Local governments play a crucial role in implementing policies, programs, and interventions that improve access to quality healthcare services and enhance cancer awareness within their respective jurisdictions.
ULAP Unpacks the Role of LGUs in the 4Ps during PIDS Webinar "Examining the Impacts of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)
ULAP PUblic Relations Officer and Quezon City Councilor Kate Coseteng highlighted the role of local government units in addressing supply-side issues that hamper the efficacy of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. By augmenting transportation services and human resource development, LGUs can bridge the access gap and help 4Ps beneficiaries attain health and educational outcomes.
The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, together with its member leagues, remains committed to supporting the enhancement and implementation of the 4Ps, and calls for the increased involvement of LGUs to ensure the program’s success.
ULAP Weighs In: Decoding Proposed Constitutional Changes
ULAP's Chairman for Advocacy and Policy and PCL Chairman Atty. Raul Corro represented ULAP during the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes for the Public Hearing on proposals to amend Sections 4 and 7 of Article VI on the Legislative Department; Section 4 Article VII on Executive Department; and Section 8, Article X on Local Government of the 1987 Constitution. The Public Hearing was held last 24 April 2024.
