VM Bebot proposes new legal division to expedite legislation

THE Sangguniang Panlungsod, as the legislative body of the city, plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s future. Tasked with enacting ordinances, approving resolutions, and appropriating funds for the general welfare of the city and its inhabitants, its mandate is enshrined in the "Local Government Code of 1991," specifically detailed in Section 458. 

Under the leadership of Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, the 20th City Council has remained steadfast in its commitment to this mandate. However, the legislative process requires thorough legal review, and all proposed legislations must pass through the scrutiny of the City Legal Office. This office is responsible for providing comprehensive legal services to the City Government, supporting various departments and agencies, and addressing the legal needs of all barangays. Given the current workload faced by the City Legal Office, the timely enactment of many proposed ordinances has been affected.

Recognizing this challenge, Vice Mayor Bebot has spearheaded an initiative to streamline the legislative process without compromising legal integrity. She has proposed the "Legal Services Division Ordinance of Cagayan de Oro City," aiming to establish a dedicated legal services division directly under the Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

The proposed Legal Services Division will be directly overseen by the City Secretary and led by an Attorney III. This division will include several plantilla positions, each with specified educational and eligibility criteria, work experience, and other qualifications. The Attorney III, as division chief, will coordinate with the City Legal Office and other city government offices and agencies as required by the Vice Mayor or any City Council member to provide legal opinions and manage an integrated legal information system within the division. 

The good vice mayor believes that as the city continues to develop, there is an urgent need for timely legislation addressing a wide range of issues—from infrastructure and public safety to health, education, employment, and environmental sustainability. By proposing the Legal Services Division, she envisions a more efficient legislative process that can keep pace with the city's dynamic needs.