‘Rights of all parties must be protected’ - BM Donaal proposes rules for complaints, appeals in Kalinga

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Board Member Atty. Christopher Donaal is pushing for an ordinance that seeks to establish uniform rules for handling complaints, appeals, and other cases brought before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and other provincial government bodies.

The proposed measure, titled “Adopting the Rules of Procedure Governing the Exercise of Quasi-Judicial Functions of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and Other Provincial Bodies of the Province of Kalinga,” aims to provide a clear and standardized process for the conduct of hearings and the resolution of cases under the jurisdiction of concerned provincial offices.

Under the proposal, provincial bodies exercising quasi-judicial authority will be guided by a codified set of procedures in receiving complaints, evaluating evidence, conducting hearings, and rendering decisions on cases brought before them.

The measure seeks to strengthen due process and ensure that all parties involved are given fair and equal opportunities to present their side before decisions are made.

In an interview with Guru Press Cordillera, Donaal explained that the absence of a standardized procedure may lead to inconsistencies in the handling of cases, making it necessary to adopt rules that promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in government proceedings.

“Through this ordinance, ti Sangguniang Panlalawigan and other concerned provincial bodies nga aghanhandle ti complaints ket agkaroon ti guide tapno masure tayo nga protected ti rights of all parties involved throughout the process or during hearings. The codified set of rules will help improve resolving in an orderly manner," Donaal said.

During the Provincial Board's regular session on June 9, the proposed ordinance passed its first reading.

Following its initial approval, the measure will be referred to the appropriate committee for further study and deliberation before it returns to the Provincial Board for subsequent readings and possible enactment.