On July 31, 2024, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Cagayan passed a landmark ordinance aimed at streamlining the process of submitting and reviewing the annual and supplemental budgets of the various local government units (LGUs) within the province. The ordinance, titled “An Ordinance Establishing a Streamlined Guideline and Process in the Submission and Review of Annual and Supplemental Budgets of the Different Local Government Units in the Province of Cagayan,” was approved during the council’s 100th regular session.

The principal sponsors of this ordinance are Hon. Mila Perpetua Catabay-Lauigan, Hon. Rosauro Rodrigo G. Resuello, and Hon. Romeo S. Garcia, all of whom are board members of the provincial council. The newly approved legislation aims to provide a clear and systematic guideline for LGUs in drafting and submitting their budgets, ensuring a more efficient and thorough review process by the appropriate authorities.

Under the new ordinance, the budget approval process is expected to become more organized and expedited, facilitating better allocation of funds for projects and programs that benefit the people of Cagayan. Hon. Catabay-Lauigan stated, “This initiative is a crucial part of our advocacy to enhance governance and public service in the province.”

The ordinance also aims to increase transparency and accountability in the budget preparation and approval, a key objective of the principal sponsors. The new law is set to be implemented immediately.

The approval of this ordinance demonstrates the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Cagayan’s commitment to improving governance and public service delivery in the province. It marks a significant step toward a more modern and efficient government, better equipped to meet the needs of its constituents.