CEBU, Philippines - A proposed ordinance aimed at streamlining the enforcement of a national law to address the concerns of children and women in the barangays did not reach first base, even in the presence of members of the local council for women and children during the regular session on Wednesday.
Authored by Councilor Lilani Ramon, the proposed ordinance seeks to institutionalize the establishment of Violence Against Women and their Children desks in each of the 30 barangays of the city, and provides funds for the purpose.
Initially, five councilors voted for the measure while the rest have abstained. After the recess, Councilor Nelson Patrimonio changed his vote to yes because he also had a similar proposal before coming back to the City Council.
The number, however failed to get the majority as explained by the presiding officer, Vice Mayor Woodrow Maquiling, considering that it was an appropriation ordinance.
The contention of those who abstained was that the proposed ordinance was a duplication of a national law and that the best solution was for the executive to enforce the same through the barangays instead. (FREEMAN)