Lapu-Lapu to strictly screen NGOs seeking accreditation

CEBU, Philippines - Lapu-Lapu City would strictly screen non-government organizations applying for accreditation.

Lapu-Lapu City assistant attorney Micheal Dignos is amazed at the number of NGOs applying for accreditation.

He said the city has received more applications than neighboring Mandaue, Cebu cities and the towns of Consolacion and Liloan.

“It’s worth our curiosity why most of them are here,” Dignos said, adding that LGU accreditation is a requirement before an NGO could solicit money from private individuals or foundations in other countries.

The Department of Interior and Local Government Unit has set aside a criteria for an NGO to qualify for accreditation, but the city council has decided that an applicant should bring all its board officers and official copy of its bylaws to the accreditation committee, which Councilor Cornelio Pahang heads.

One of the criteria is that an NGO must have ongoing projects in Lapu-Lapu and all its incorporators should be residents of the city.

Vice Mayor Mario Amores, the council’s presiding officer, does not want the city to be part of the blame later on.

“Who knows they only exist on paper. The city can not afford to become part of the blame,” Amores said.

Among the applications being withheld by the city council is that of the Balay Alima sa Sugbo Foundation because its offices are located in Talamban, Cebu City and councilors cannot understand why it had sought accreditation from Lapu-Lapu and not from Cebu City.

Dignos said the money that an NGO will earn from sponsors abroad can entice private individuals to deceive LGUs for an accreditation.

He advised Pahang to conduct a background check of applicants, not just act on the application based on submitted documents.

“It is not a ministerial function on the part of the chairman of the accreditation committee. He should also verify to protect the city’s dignity,” he said.   (FREEMAN NEWS)