QC prepares for 2 new districts

MANILA, Philippines - The Quezon City government said yesterday preparations are underway for the creation of two new legislative districts out of the city’s District 2.

President Aquino signed into law Republic Act 10170 last month. Under this law, the second legislative district of Quezon City is reapportioned to create the fifth and sixth congressional districts.

Aldrin Cuna, Mayor Herbert Bautista’s chief of staff, said they are preparing for the election of two more congressmen and 12 more city councilors – six councilors per district – in the 2013 local elections.

“While Quezon City recognizes the importance of redistricting in promoting representative democracy, increasing the number of our councilors would mean added demands on the city’s budget,” he said.

Cuna said District 2 in itself is a very large area – thus the need to create two more districts out of it.

He said the city government needs about P1 billion to fund the salaries of the new congressmen, councilors and their staff, their daily operation and new equipment and facilities.

According to Cuna, the city government will rehabilitate the legislative wing of Quezon City Hall to create new offices and purchase additional furniture for the session hall and these new offices.

As provided under the new law, District 5 will be composed of Barangays Greater Lagro, Pasong Putik, North Fairview, Kaligayahan, Sta. Lucia, San Agustin, Novaliches Proper, Nagkaisang Nayon, Sta. Monica, Capri, San Bartolome, Bagbag, Gulod and Talipapa.

District 6, on the other hand, will be composed of Barangays Sauyo, Baesa, Balon-bato, Unang Sigaw, Apolonio Samson, Sangandaan, Tandang Sora, Pasong Tamo, Culiat and New Era.

Barangays Holy Spirit, Batasan Hills, Commonwealth, Bagong Silangan, Payatas and Fairview will remain under District 2.