From 3 years to 6: Naga brgys amenable to extension of office

CEBU, Philippines - Barangay officials in the City of Naga are supporting a Senate proposal that seeks to extend their term to six years from the current three years.

Village chiefs headed by Association of Barangay Captains president Aurelio Alinsonorin of BarangayPangdan said the move would allow them to focus on long-term goals.

Senator Teofisto “TG” Guingona III was in the city recently to consult local officials on his proposed bill.

Guingona, chairman of the Senate Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations, said he found it necessary to consult barangay leaders to get their side on the proposal.

Mayor Valdemar Chiong also expressed support to the bill saying the frequency of elections has created unwanted political rows at the community level.

Chiong said the bickering that arises from these political wars stymies the implementation of long-term government policies and projects.

Chiong also shared Guingona’s view that a three-year term is too short for barangay captains to implement and sustain their projects and improve their disaster risk reduction management plans.

Under Senate Bill No. 2390, barangay officials will no longer be allowed to serve more than two consecutive terms for the same position.

During the consultation, Alinsonorin also raised the proposal of giving incentives to retired village leaders who have rendered long service in their respective jurisdictions. (FREEMAN)