Abby Binay cites need to amend laws for local government

Makati Mayor Abby Binay | PHOTO: Official Facebook page of Abby Binay

MANILA, Philippines — Makati Mayor Abby Binay on Sunday called for the urgent revision of outdated laws to strengthen local government units (LGUs) in the country.

In an afternoon statement, she emphasized that legislative reforms are “critical to empowering local chief executives and enhancing governance at the grassroots level.”

According to the mayor, the Local Government Code of 1991 is one example of legislation that needs immediate revision.

“The Local Government Code served its purpose when it was enacted, but after over three decades, it no longer addresses the complexities of modern local governance. Our municipalities, cities, and barangays face new challenges, and we need laws that are responsive to the current realities of public service,” Binay stated.

The female mayor further highlighted the growing disparities in how local government units (LGUs) manage their budgets.

“From small municipalities to highly urbanized cities like Makati, there are significant differences in how barangays handle their financial resources. Many LGUs are constrained by outdated laws that prevent them from utilizing their funds effectively,” she explained.

With this, Binay proposed the revision of the budget allocation system that should be “more equitable and based on the actual needs of LGUs.”

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“The financial capabilities of LGUs vary greatly. Some are burdened with obsolete provisions that no longer align with the current economic landscape. Revising these laws will help ensure that local governments have the necessary tools and resources to serve their constituents effectively,” the mayor said.

Policies on public procurement, infrastructure development, and disaster response must also be updated to help LGUs respond faster to crises and meet their community’s needs, Binay added.

“Our local governments are on the frontlines of public service, and it is imperative that we modernize our legal framework to support their initiatives,” she remarked.