“Residents should speak up and take part… let officials know what needs to be addressed”: BM Amla urges public participation in barangay development

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Residents should actively participate in barangay affairs by raising their concerns, sharing ideas, and working with local officials to address community problems, Board Member Julius B. Amla said.

Amla delivered the message during the general assemblies of Barangays San Pedro and Liwan East in Rizal, Kalinga, last week, which he attended upon the invitation of barangay officials.

He encouraged residents to regularly attend barangay assemblies, listen to updates on local programs and projects, and raise issues that require the attention of their elected leaders.

“An assembly is not only an opportunity for residents to listen to reports. It is also their chance to speak, share their concerns, and let their officials know what needs to be addressed in the community,” Amla said in Ilocano.

He emphasized that community development should not be left solely to elected officials, stressing that residents' participation and cooperation are equally important in ensuring that local programs respond to the needs of the people.

“Barangay officials cannot address every concern if they do not know what the people are experiencing. Residents should take part, express their views, and work with their leaders toward solutions,” he added.

Public participation in barangay governance is also provided for under Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991.

Section 397 of the law requires barangay assemblies to be conducted at least twice a year, providing residents an opportunity to hear and discuss the barangay government's semestral reports on its activities and finances, as well as issues affecting the community.

Under Section 398, the barangay assembly may recommend measures to the Sangguniang Barangay for the welfare of the community, decide on the adoption of local initiatives, and hear and pass upon the barangay government's semestral reports.

Amla reiterated that residents should not simply wait for barangay officials to act on community concerns but should take the initiative to voice their needs, contribute ideas, and work together in finding solutions to local problems.