LEGAZPI CITY, Albay, Philippines — Albay Board Member Harold Ong Imperial has warned the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) that endorsing quarry permit applications could expose the body to legal and administrative liability. In a privilege speech, Imperial argued that requiring SP endorsement or Certification of Non-Objection (CNO) for commercial sand and gravel (CSAG) permits violates executive authority under the Local Government Code. He stated that such actions conflict with Section 138 of RA 7160, which grants permit issuance exclusively to the provincial governor. Citing DILG issuances and legal opinions, Imperial explained that any requirement imposed by the SP amounts to an encroachment on executive powers. He also referenced Supreme Court rulings that declared similar legislative actions as ultra vires and therefore void. Imperial warned that the SP could face penalties under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act for interfering in functions reserved for the executive. He emphasized that this overreach could confuse investors, disrupt quarry operations, and weaken the governor’s ability to regulate the industry. To mitigate these risks, he proposed that the SP revoke any ordinance requiring its endorsement and cease accepting related requests. Imperial urged the body to focus on oversight functions, such as monitoring environmental compliance and regulating fees, without crossing into executive powers. He concluded by calling for lawful, accountable governance and for the SP to maintain its proper legislative role.          

LA UNION, Philippines– The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is advancing the long-term modernization of the San Fernando International Seaport in Poro Point in La Union, with critical support from the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center. The project secured provisional funding under the Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF), a key step in transforming the terminal into a world-class gateway for Northern Luzon. Following the recent issuance of a technical assistance agreement, the BCDA and the PPP Center will jointly engage expert consultants to undertake the end-to-end preparation of the project under a PPP arrangement. This advisory package covers feasibility studies, market analysis, legal and financial structuring, PPP transaction support, and other related expenses, with an indicative budget of Php 74.90 million. The full redevelopment and modernization of the San Fernando International Seaport in Poro Point aims to transform the current bulk and break-bulk terminal into a world-class seaport equipped with modern port infrastructure and logistics systems. The project will enable full containerization, including container terminals and automated yard systems; install quay and yard cranes for faster cargo turnaround; expand storage and stacking areas; deploy advanced terminal operating systems, gate automation, and digital freight management; improve road and future rail connectivity for seamless cargo movement; as well as integrate gender, environmental, and climate safeguards into planning and design. “Northern Luzon has long been underserved by modern port infrastructure, limiting its ability to fully participate in global trade flows. This project is designed to change that by enabling full containerization, streamlining logistics, and anchoring regional industries to more competitive supply chains. It is a critical step in realizing Poro Point’s vision as a strategic economic gateway for Northern Luzon,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang. The project scope is divided into six phases, beginning with project inception and market assessment, followed by feasibility study and structuring, and assistance in securing government approvals. It will continue through the preparation of documents and PPP bidding support, and will conclude with post-contract signing advisory services. BCDA is eyeing to break ground on the Poro Point Seaport modernization by the second quarter of 2027, with full completion targeted by 2029. Once operational, the upgraded seaport will support regional industries in Pangasinan, La Union, and the Ilocos provinces as well as enhance Poro Point Freeport Zone’s appeal to logistics investors and export-oriented manufacturers here and abroad.      

By Jason B. Neola   NAGA CITY, Philippines — ONE month into her administration, Mayor Leni Robredo expressed satisfaction over the early gains made under her leadership, citing enthusiastic support from city government personnel and the implementation of 24 executive orders that signaled a shift toward more transparent, efficient, and inclusive governance. Robredo, who took her oath of office on June 30, said she is “inspired” by the positive response of her “coworkers” in the city government as she began enforcing policy reforms aligned with her 2028 Finish Lines — a roadmap outlining strategic goals in eight thematic outcome areas: economic inclusion, environmental sustainability, mobility and order, health, education and well-being, heritage and identity, digital governance, good governance innovation, and local government efficiency. Among her administration’s landmark directives are a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, the mass regularization of long-serving casual personnel, a baseline performance review of city offices, the reconstitution of the Naga City School Board, and the institutionalization of stronger civil society participation in local governance. “Seeing their commitment and openness to change motivates me even more to pursue the long-term objectives we have laid down,” Robredo said. In her first month, the city government conducted clearing operations of waterways, drainage canals, and water outfalls, spearheaded by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), the City Engineer’s Office, and the Solid Waste Management Office. “They [personnel] work almost 24/7 just to ensure that siltation due to the dumps of garbage are removed, clogged drainages are unblocked, and water outfalls are cleared,” Robredo said. “They are doing this to minimize the flooding in the city, if not totally prevented.” Robredo also emphasized partnerships with national and local government units and private stakeholders as vital to achieving her administration’s goals. Key collaborations include a partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the Naga River Rehabilitation focused on clean-up and flood control, and a joint effort with the Metro Naga Water District to strengthen potable water infrastructure and ensure sustainable water supply. Another notable development is a sister-city cooperation with Quezon City, which will pave the way for urban and administrative collaboration in areas such as housing and digital governance services. As her administration moves forward, Robredo remains firm in steering the city toward a governance model that is responsive, participatory, and future-ready.