DILG urges citizens to take part in barangay assembly

By SHIELA MAE BUTLIG
Correspondent

THE Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) enjoins the public not to pass on the opportunity to engage their barangay officials in the nationwide synchronized barangay assembly on Sunday.

Arnel Agabe, DILG director for northern Mindanao, said the barangay assembly would be a good opportunity for barangay residents to know what specific programs are being prioritized by their barangay officials. Participants, Agabe added, would also know where and how their taxes are being spent.

“They (residents) could make recommendations to (their) barangay officials as to what should be the priority programs for them,” said Agabe.

Agabe believes that that the barangay assembly is also the best time for residents and barangay officials to thresh out issues hounding President Duterte’s “war on illegal drugs” and the anti-crime campaign.

The barangay assembly is mandatory across the country. It is held twice each year. The first nationwide synchronized barangay assembly this year was held in March.

Issues to be discussed would include concerns on illegal drugs, peace and order, disaster preparedness and solid waste management.

Agabe said the barangay officials are expected to deliver their respective reports, including their accomplishments as well as their financial statements during the assembly.