Kalinga provincial legislators attend National Convention of the PBMLP to advance provincial policies

Tabuk City, Kalinga – The members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Kalinga, led by Vice Governor Dave Q. Odiem, participated in the 34th National Convention of the Provincial Board Members League of the Philippines (PBMLP) to further strengthen local legislation.

The three-day event, held from March 2 to 4, 2026, at the Manila Hotel, gathered provincial board members from across the country to discuss key policy concerns affecting local government units (LGUs).

According to the event agenda shared by Board Member Emilio T. Kitongan with Guru Press Cordillera, the convention focused on updates regarding the implementation of the Mandanas ruling, particularly the transition of devolved functions from the national government to LGUs.

The Mandanas ruling, as explained by the Presidential Communications Office, refers to the 2018 Supreme Court decision (Mandanas-Garcia case) that significantly increased the financial allocations of LGUs from the national government by broadening the tax base used in determining their share.

The PBMLP, along with other local government leagues, is considered a key stakeholder in the implementation of the ruling, as it directly impacts provincial budgets and legislative responsibilities.

Aside from this topic, discussions also covered legal and policy matters concerning municipal waters. The convention likewise featured technical sessions, plenary discussions, and the election of a new set of national officers.

After the convention, Kitongan said the Kalinga SP members conducted an off-site regular session in Manila to deliberate on proposed measures aimed at boosting development in the province.

“The participation of the Kalinga delegation is part of our continuing effort to strengthen local legislation and align provincial policies with national directives affecting local governance,” Kitongan said.

All members of the Kalinga Provincial Board were present during the event.