Republic of the Philippines >
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES) ¢;
Quezon City, Metro Manila if 2

NINETEENTH CONGRESS. \
1 Regular Session

House Bill No. 317

Introduced by Representative ERIC GO YAP

EXPLANATORY NOTE

‘The Municipality of La Trinidad is a first-class municipality in the Province of
Benguet. It is composed of sixteen (16) barangays, the largest in the province, namely:
Alapang, Aino, Ambiong, Bahong, Balili, Beckel, Betag, Bineng, Cruz, Lubas, Pico,
Poblacion, Puguis, Shilan, Tawang, and Wangal.

During the colonial era, La Trinidad is relatively the most developed settlement in the
Benguet area as it served as the gateway from the Southem Lowlands in to the
mountain region and the center of administration for colonizers, At present, La
Trinidad is home to several higher learning institutions, a center for banking and

finance, and an expanding area of socio-economic activities.

‘This bill seeks to convert the Municipality of La Trinidad into a component city of the
Province of Benguet to be known as the City of La Trinidad. This conversion will
venture on the full economic potential of the Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet —
as it will pave the way for more development and added services to the growing
population. Moreover, it will provide the means to properly address issues and

concerns of the provineial capital.

In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is eamnestly sought.

‘YAP



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

NINETEENTH CONGRESS
1 Regular Session

317

House Bill No,

Introduced by Representative ERIC GO YAP

AN ACT
CONVERTING THE MUNICIPALITY OF LA TRINIDAD, PROVINCE OF
BENGUET INTO A COMPONENT CITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE
CITY OF LA TRINIDAD

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

CHAPTER
GENERAL PROVISIONS

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Charter of the City
of La Trinidad.”

SEC. 2. City of La Trinidad. - The Municipality of La Trinidad is hereby
converted into a camponent city to be known as the City of La Trinidad, hereinafter
referred to as the City, which shall compromise of the present territory of the
Municipality of La Trinidad in the province of Benguet,

La Trinidad is located 3 kilometers north of Baguio City and is 256 kilometers
north of Manila. It is hounded on the north by the municipality of Tublay, on the south
by the City of Baguio, on the west by Sablan and Tuba. Its geographical coordinates
are 16°21" north latitude 120°35" east longitude.

The foregoing provision shall be without prejudice to the resolution of
appropriate agency or foram of existing boundary disputes or cases involving,
questions of territorial jurisdiction between the Municipality of La Trinidad and the
adjoining local government units, Provided, That the territorial jurisdiction of the
disputed area or areas shall remain with the local government unit the fin al resolution
of the case.


SEC. 3, Corpornte Powers of the City. - The City constitutes a political body that
is corporate in nature and as such is endowed with the attributes of perpetual
succession and possessed the powers which pertain to a municipal corporation to be
exercised in conformity corporate powers:

. To have a continuous succession in its corporate name;
». To sue and be sued;

. To have and use a corporate seal;

. To acquire, hold and convey real or personal;

. To enter into any contracts or agreements; and

To exercise such other powers, prerogatives or authority subject to the
limitations provided under this Act or in existing laws.

repnges

SEC. 4. General Powers of the City. - The City shall have a common seal and
may alter the same at pleasure, Provided, That any change of corporate seal shall be
registered with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). It shall
exercise the power to levy taxes; to close and open roads, streets, alleys, parks or
squares; to take, purchase, receive, hold lease, convey and dispose of real and personal
property for public use; to contract and be contracted with; to sue and be sued; to
prosecute and defend to final judgment and execution suits wherein the City is
involved or interested in and to exercise al] powers as are granted to corporations or
as hereinafter conferred.

SEC. 5. Liability for Damages. - The City and its officials shall not be exempt
from liability for death or injury to persons or damage to property.

SEC, 6. Jurisdiction of the City. - The jurisdiction of the City of La Trinidad for
police purposes only, shall be coextensive with its territorial jurisdiction and, for
purposes of protecting and ensuring the purity of water supply of the City, such police
jurisdiction shall also extend over all the territory within the drainage area of such
water supply, or within one hundred meters (100 m.) of any reservoir, conduit, canal,
aqueduct or pumping station used in connection with the city water service.

‘The regional trial courts and the city courts of the City of La Trinidad shall have
concurrent jurisdiction with the regional trial courts and the metropolitan trial courts
‘or city or municipal trial courts of the adjoining, municipalities or cities to try crimes
and misdemeanors committed within said drainage area or within said spaces of one
hundred meters.

The court first taking cognizance of such an offense shall have jurisdiction to
try cases to the exclusion of others, The police forces of the municipalities and cities
concerned shall have concurrent jurisdiction with the police forces of the City for the
maintenance of good order and enforcement of ordinances throughout the said zone,
area or space shall be granted by the proper authorities of the city or municipality
concerned, and the fees arising therefrom shall accrue to the treasury of the said city
or municipality concemed and not the City,


CHAPTER I
CITY OFFICIALS IN GENERAL

SEC. 7. The Officials of the City of La Trinidat, a, There shall be in the City: A
City Mayor, City Vice Mayor, Sauggimiang Paniorgsnd Members, Secretary to the
Sangguniang Panlungsod, a City Treasurer and an Assistant City Treasurer, 3 City
Assessor, a City Accountant, a City Budget Officer, a City Planning and Development
Coordinator, a City Engineer, a City Health Officer, a City Civil Registrar, a City
Administrator, 2 City Legal Officer, a City Veterinarian, a City Social Welfare and
Development Officer and a City General Services Officer;

b. In addition thereto, the City Mayor may appoint a City Architect, a City
Population Officer, a City Information Officer, a City Environment and Natural
Resources Officer, a City Agriculturist and a City Cooperatives Officers;

, There shall established in the City a City Fire Station to be headed by a City
Fire Marshall, a City Jail to be headed by a City Jail Warden, a City Schools
Division to be headed by a City Schools Division Superintendent and a City
Prosecution Service to be headed by a City Prosecutor; and

ad, The Sangguniang Pantungsod may:
(1) Maintain existing offices which are not included in subsections (a) and (b)
hereof;
(2) Create such other offices as maybe necessary to carry-out the purposes of
the City; or
(3) Consolidate the functions of any office with those of another in the interest
of efficiency and economy.

e. Unless otherwise provided herein, the heads of departments and offices shall
be appointed by the City Mayor with concurrence of the majority of the
Sangguniang Panlungsad, subject to civil service laws, rules and regulations. The
Sangguniang Panlungsod shail act on the appointment within fifteen (15) days
from the day of its submission, otherwise the same shall be deemed confirmed.

f Elective and appointive city officials shall receive compensation, allowances
and other emoluments as may be determined by law or ordinance, subject to
the budgetary limitations on personal services prescribed under Title Five,
Book II of the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended: Provided, That no
inerease in the compensation of the City Mayor, City Vice Mayor and
Sangguniang Panlungsod member shall take effect until after the expiration of
the full term of the local officials approving the increase.


CHAPTER Ul
THE CITY MAYOR AND VICE MAYOR

SEC. 8. The City Mayor, ~ a. The City Mayor shall be the Chief Executive of the
City and shall be elected at large by qualified voters of the City. No person shall be
eligible for the position of City Mayor unless at the time of election, that the person is
a citizen of the Philippines, at least Twenty-one (21) years of age, a resident of the City
for at least ane (1) year prior to the elections and qualified voter therein and is able to
read and write Filipino or any other language or dialect, The City Mayor shall hold
office for three (3) years, unless sooner removed, but shall serve for not more than
three (3) consecutive terms in the same position, The City Mayor shall receive a
minimum monthly compensation corresponding to Salary Grade 30 as prescribed
under Republic Act No. 6758, as amended, otherwise known as the “Compensation
and Position Classification Act of 1989”, and the Implementing Guidelines issued
pursuant thereto,

Mayor as the Chief Executive of the City Government, shall exercise
such powers and perform such duties and functions as provided herein

b. For efficient, effective and economical governance, the purpose pf which is the
general welfare of the City and its inhabitants, the City Mayor shall:

1. Exercise general supervision and control over all programs, projects,
services and activities of the city government and, in this connection shalk:
i Determine the guidelines. of city policies and be responsible to
Sangguniang Panlungsex, implement the same;

ii Direct the formulation of the City Development Plan, with the
assistance of the city development council and upon approval therwof
by the Saggnniang Pantungsod, implement the same;

iii. Present the Program of Govemment and propose policies and projects
for the consideration of the Sanggtitiang Panlungsod at the opening of
the regular session of the Sangguniang Paninegsod every calendar year
and as often as may be deemed necessary as the general welfare of the
inhabitants and the needs of the City government may require;

iv. _ Initiate and propose legislative measures to the Sangguniang Panlraegsor!
and as often as may be deemed necessary provide such information and
data needed or requested by the said Senggrmiang Panlungsed in the
performance of its logislative functions;


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xvi,

Appoint all officials and employees whose salaries and wages are
wholly or mainly paid out of City funds and whose appointments are
not otherwise provided for in the Act, and those whose appointment
may be under other laws;

Represent the City in all its business transactions and sign on its behalf
bonds, contracts, obligations and such other documents with authonty
from the Sanggunieng Panlungsed or pursuant to law or ordinance;
Carry-out such emergency measures as may be necessary during and
in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters and calamities;
Determine the time, manner and place of payment of salaries and wages
of officials and employees, in accordance with law or ordinance;
Allocate and assign office space to City officials and employees who, by
Jaw or ordinance, are entitled to such space in the City Hall, and other
building owned or leased by the city government;

Ensure that all exccutive officials and employees of the City faithfully
discharge their duties and functions as provided for the law and the
Local Government Code of 1991, as amended, and cause to be instituted
administrative or judicial proceedings against any official or employee
of the City who may have committed an offense in the performance of
his official duties

Examine the books, records and other documents of all offices, officials,
agents or employces of the City and, in aid of executive powers and
authority, require all national officials and employees stationed in or
assigned to the City to available books, records and other documents in
their custody except those classified by law as confidential;

Furnish copies of Executive Orders issued by him to the Office of the
Governor of the Province of Benguet within seventy-two (72) hours
upon issuance;

Visit component barangays of the City atleast once every six (6) months
to deepen understanding of the problems and conditions, listen and
give appropriate counsel to local officials and inhabitants, inform the
component barangay officials and inhabitants of general laws and
ordinance which especially concern them, and otherwise conduct visits
and inspections to ensure that the governance of the City will improve
the quality of life of the mhabitants;

Act on leave application of officials and cmployces appointed and on
the commutation of monetary value of their leave credits in accordance
with law;

Authorized official trips of officials and employees outside of the City
for a period not exceeding thirty (30) days. Provided, That trips abroad
for a longer period may be authorized in accordance with the Local
Government Code of 1991, as amended.

Call upon any national official or employee stationed in or assigned to
the City to advise him on matters affecting the City and to make
recommendations thereon; coordinate with the said officials and
employees in the formulation and implementation of plans, programs



xvii.

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and projects; and when appropriate, initiate administrative or judicial
action against national government official or employee who may have
committed and offense in the performance of his official duties while
stationed in or assigned to the City:

Authorize the payment of medical care, necessary transportation,
subsistence, medical or hospital fees of City officials and employees
who are injured while in the availability of funds;

Solemnize marriages, any provision of law to the contra
notwithstanding;

Conduct an annual pularong pantungsod which shall feature traditional
sports and disciplines included in national and international games in
coordination with the Department of Education; and

Submit to the provincial governor the following reports: an Annual
Report containing a summary of all matters pertinent to the
management, administration and development of the City and all
information and data relative to its political, social and economic
conditions; supplemental reports when unexpected events or situations
arise at any time during the year, particularly when man-made or
natural disasters or calamities affect the general welfare of the City.

2. Enforce all laws and ordinances relative to the governance of the City and
in the exercise of its appropriate powers as well as implement all approved
policies, programs, projects, services and activities of the City and in
addition shall:

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Ensure that acts of the City’s component barangays and its officials and
employees are within the scope of their prescribed powers, duties and
functions;

Call conventions, conferences, seminars or meetings of elective or
appointive officials of the City, at such time and place and on such
subject he may deem important for the promotion of general welfare of
the local government unit and its inhabitants;

Issue such Executive Orders for the faithful and appropriate
enforcement and execution of laws and ordinances;

Be entitled to carry the necessary firearms within his territorial
jurisdiction;

Act as the deputized representatives of the National Police
Commission, formulate the peace and order plan of the City; upon its
approval, implement the same; and as such exercise general and
operational control over police forces in the City in accordance with
Republic Act No. 6975, otherwise knownas the “Department of Interior
and Local Government Act of 1990"; and

Call upon the appropriate law enforcement agencies to suppress
disorder, riot, lawless violence, rebellion or sedution or apprehend
violators of the law when public interest so requires and the city police
forces are inadequate to cope with the situation or the violators;



3. Initiate the maximize the generation of resources and revenues, the
implementation development plans, program objectives and priorities,
particularly the resources and revenues programed for agro-industrial
development and countryside growth and progress, and relative thereto,
shall;

i. Require each head of an office or department to prepare and submit and
estimate of appropriations for the calendar year in accordance with the
budget preparation process enshrined under Republic Act No. 7160), as
amended, otherwise known as the “Local Government Code of 19917;

fi, Prepare and submit to the Sanggunian for approval the executive and

supplemental budgets of the City for the ensuing calendar year in the
manner provided for under the Local Government Code of 1991, as
amended;

Ensure that all taxes and revenues of the City are collected and the City

funds are applied to the payment of expenses and the settlement of

obligations of the City, in accordance with law or ordinance;

iv. _ Issue licenses and permits and suspend or revoke the same for any
violation of the condition upon which said licenses or permits had been
issued pursuant to law or ordinance;

v. Issue permits without need of approval from any national agency, for
the holdings and activities for any charitable or welfare purpose,
exchiding prohibited games or shows contrary to law, public policy
morals;

vi. Require owners of illegally constructed houses, buildings or structures
to obtain the necessary permit, subject such fines and penalties as ay be
imposed by law or ordinance, or to order the demolition or removal of
said house, building or structure within the period prescribed by law or
ordinance;

vii, Adopt adequate measures to safeguard and conserved land, mineral,
forest, marine and other sources of the City;

viii, Provide efficient and effective property and supply management in the

City and protect the funds, credits, rights and other properties of the
City; and

ix. Institute or cause to be instituted administrative or judicial proceedings
for the violation of ordinance in the collection of taxes, fees or charges,
and for the recovery of funds and property; and cause the City to be
defended against all suits to ensure that its interest, resources and rights

shall be adequately protected.

4, Ensure the delivery of basic services and the provision of adequate
facilities and in addition thereto, shall;

i. Ensure that the construction of roads and highways funded by the
national government shall be, as far as practicable, carried out in a
spatially contiguous manner and in coordination with the construction
and repair of the roads and bridges of the Ci



ii, Coordinate the implementation of technical services including public
works and infrastructure programs, rendered by the national offices

5. Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under Republic Act No. 7160 otherwise known as the Local
Government Code of 1991, as amended, and those that are prescribed by
Jaw or ordinance.

. During the incumbency of the City Mayor, he shall hold office in the city
hall,

SEC. 9. The City Vice Mayor. - a. There shall be a City Vice Mayor who shall be
elected in the same manner as the City Mayor and at the time of his clection shalt
possess the same qualification as the City Mayor. The City Vice Mayor shall hold office
for a term of three (3) years, unless sooner removed, and shall receive a monthly
compensation corresponding Salary Grade Twenty-six (26) as prescribed under
Republic Act No, 6738, otherwise known as the “Compensation and Position
Classification Act of 1989", as amended, and the implementing guidelines issued
pursuant thereto.

b. TheCity Vice Mayor Shall:
1. Act as the presiding officer of the Sangguniang Paulungsd and sign all
warrants drawn on the City Treasury for all expenditures appropriated for

the operations of the Sungguniitng Pantungsod;

2, Subject to civil service law, rules and regulations, appoint all officials and
employces of the Saiggrriaug Pantungsod, except those who manner of
appointment is specifically provided under the Local Government Code
of 1991, as amended;

3. Assume the office of the City Mayor for the unexpired term of the latter in
tho event of the permanent vacancy;

4. Exercise the powers and perform the duties functions of the city Mayor in
case of temporary vacancy; and

5. Perform other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local
Government Code of 1991, as amended.

CHAPTER IV,
THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD

SEC. 10. Composition, ~ a. The Sanggratiang Pantwigsod, the legislatives body
of the City, shall be composed of the City Vice Mayor as presiding officer, the ten (10)
Sanggunian members, the President of the City Chapter of the Liga ng mga Barangay,
the President of the Pantungsod na Pederasyon ng, mga Sangguniang Kabataan and
the three (3) sectoral representatives, who shall come from the following sectors, as


members; one (1) from the women sector; and, as shall be determined by the
Sangguniang Panlungsod within the ninety (90) days prior to the holding of local
elections; one (1) from the agricultural or industrial workers sector; and one (1) from
the other sectors, including urban poor, indigenous cultural communities or persons
with disabilities (PWDs)-

b. The regular members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and the Sectoral
Representatives shall be elected in the manner as may be provided by law.

¢. The members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod shall receive a minimum monthly
compensation corresponding to Salary Grade Twenty-five (25) as prescribed
under the “Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989", as
amended, and the implementing guidelines issued pursuant thereto.

SEC. 11. Powers, Duties, Functions and Compensation. ~ The Sangguniang
Panlungsod, as a legislative body of the City, shall enact ordinances, approve
resolutions and appropriate funds for the general welfare of the City and its
inhabitants pursuant to Section 16 of the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended,
and in the proper exercise of the corporate powers of the City as provided under
Section 23 of the Local Government Code of 199, as amended and shall:

a. Approve ordinances and pass resolutions necessary for an efficient and
effective city government and in this connection shall:

1. Review all ordinances approved by the Sangguniang Barangay and
Executive Orders issued by the Puniong Baraugay to determine whether
these are within the scope of the prescribed powers of the Sanggursiang
Barangay and of the Punong Barangay;

2. Maintain peace and order by enacting measure to prevent and suppress
lawlessness, disorder, riot, violence, rebellion or sedition and impose
penalties for the violation of said ordinances;

3. Approve ordinances imposing a fine not exceeding five thousand pesos (P
5,000.00) or an imprisonment for a period not exceeding one (1) year, or
both at the discretion of the court, for violation of a city ordinance;

4. Adopt measure to protect the inhabitants of the City on the harmful effects

‘of man-made or natural disasters and calamities, and to provide relief

services and assistance for victims during and in the aftermath of said

disasters or calamities and in their return to productive livelihood
following said events;

Enact ordinances intended to prevent, suppress and impose appropriate

penalties for habitual drunkenness in public places, vagrancy, mendicancy,

prostitution, establishment and maintenance of houses of ill repute,
gambling and other prohibited games if chance, fraudulent devices and
ways to obtain money or property, drug addiction, maintenance of drug
dens, drug pushing, javenile delinquency, the printing or distribution or
exhibition of obscene or pornographic materials or publications, and such

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other activities inimical to the welfare and morals of the inhabitants of the
City;

6, Protect the environment and impose appropriate penalties for acts which
endanger the environment, such as dynamite fishing and other forms of
destructive fishing, illegal logging, smuggling of logs, smuggling of natural
resources products and of endangered species of flora and fauna, slash-
and-burn farming and such other activities which result in pollution,
acceleration of eutrophication of rivers and lakes or of ecological
imbalance;

7. Subject to the provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991, as
amended and the pertinent laws, determine the powers and duties of
officials and employees of the City;

8 Determine the positions and the salaries, wages, allowances and other
emoluments and benefits of officials and employees paid wholly or mainly
from city funds and provide expenditures necessary for the proper conduct
of programs, projects, services and activities of the city government

9. Authorize the payment of compensation to a qualified person not in the
government service who fills up a temporary vacancy or grant honorarium
to any qualified official or employee designated to fill a temporary vacancy
in a concurrent capacity at the rate authorized by law;

10. Provide a mechanism and appropriate funds thereof, to ensure the safety
and protection of all city government property, public documents, or
records such as those relating to property inventory, land ownership,
record of births marriages, deaths, assessments, taxation, accounts,
business permits and such other records and documents of public interest
in the offices and departments of the city government;

11, When the finances of the city government allow, provide for additional
allowances and other benefits to judges, prosecutors, public elementary
and high school teachers, and other national government officials stationed
in or assigned to the City;

12, Provide legal assistance to Barangay officials, who, in the performance of
their official duties or on the occasion thereof, have to initiate judicial
proceedings or defend themselves against legal actions; and

13. Provide for a group insurance or additional insurance coverage for all
olficials, including members of barangay tanod brigaders and other service
units, with public or private insurance companies, when the finances of the
city government allows said coverage.

b. Generate and maximize the use of resources and revenues for the
development plans, program objectives and priorities of the City, with
particular attention to agro-industrial development and city-wide growth
and progress, relative thereto, shall:

1. Approve the annual and supplemental budgets of the city government and
appropriate funds for specific programs, projects, services and activities of
the City, or for other purposes not contrary to law in order to promote the
general welfare of the City and its inhabitants;

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2. Subject to the provisions of Book TI of the Local Government Code of 1991,
as amended, and other applicable laws and upon majority vote of all the
members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, enact ardinances levying taxes,
fees and charges, prescribing the rates thereof for general and specific
purposes and granting tax exemption, incentive or reliets;

3, Subject to the provisions of Book Il of the Local Government Code of 1991,
as amended, and upon the majority vote of all the members of the
Sangguniang Paulwugsint, authorize the City Mayor to negotiate and contact
loans and other forms of indebtedness;

4. Subject to the provisions of Book of the Local Government code of 1991, as
amended, and applicable laws and upon the majority vote of all the
members of the Sangguniang Panlnagsod, enact ordinances authoring the
floating of bonds and other instrument of indebtedness, for the purpose of
raising funds to finance development projects;

5. Appropriate funds for the construction and maintenance or rental of
buildings for the use of the City; and upon the majority vote of all the
members of the Sauggrmtang Pantungsert, authorize the City Mayor to lease
to private parties such as buildings held in a propriety capacity, subject to
existing laws, rules and regulations;

6. Prescribe reasonable limits and restraints on the use of property within the
jurisdiction of the City,

2. Adopt a comprehensive land use plan for the City and ensure that the
formulation, adoption or modification of the said plan shall be in
coordination with the approved provincial comprehensive land-use plan;

8. Reclassify land within the jurisdiction of the City subject to pertinent
provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended;

9. Enact integrated zoning ordinances in consonance with the approved
comprehensive land-use plan, subject existing laws, rules and regulations,
establish fire limits or zones, particularly in populous centers, and regulate
the construction, repair or modification of buildings within said fire limits
or zones in accordance with the provisions of the Fire Code of the
Philippines;

10, Subject to national law, process and approve subdivision plans for
residential, commercial or industrial purposes and other development
purposes, and to collect processing fecs and ather charges, the proceeds of
which shall accrue entirely to the City; Provided, however, That where the
approval of a national agency of office is required, said approval shall not
be withheld for more than thirty (0) days from receipt of application.
Failure to act on the application within the period stated shall be deemed as
approved thereof;

11. Subject to the provision of Book II of the “Local Government Code of 1991",
as amended, grant exclusive privilege of constructing fish corrals or fish
pens, or taking or catching of bangus fry, prawn fry or krwag-kavnag, or fry
of any species or fish within city waters;

12. With the concurrence of at least two (2/3) of all the members of the
Sangguniang Paniungsod, grant tax exemptions, incentives or relief to entities



engaged in community growth-inducing industries, subject the provisions
of the “Local Government Code of 199", as amended;

13, Grant loans or provide grants to other local government units or to national,
provincial and city charitable, benevolent or educational institutions;
Provided, That said institutions are operated and maintained within the City;

14. Regulate the numbering of residential, commercial and other building; and

15. Regulate inspection, weighing and measuring articles of commerce

c. Subject to the provisions of Book Il of the “Local Government Code of 1991",
as amended, enact ordinances granting franchises and authorizing the
issuance of permits or licenses, upon such conditions and for purposes
intended to promote the general welfare of the inhabitants of the City and
pursuant to this legislative authority, shall;

1. Fix and impose reasonable fees and charges for all services rendered by the
city government to private persons or entities;

2. Regulate or fix license fees for any business or practice of profession within
the City and the conditions under which the license for the said business or
practice of profession may be revoked and enact ordinances levying, taxes
thereon;

3. Provide for and set terms and conditions under which public util
owned by the City shall be operated by the city government, and prescribe
the conditions under which the same may be leased to private persons or
entities, preferably cooperatives;

4. Regulate the display of and fix the license fees for signs and signboards or
billboards at the place or places where the profession or business advertised
thereby is, in whole or in part, conducted;

5. Any law to the contrary notwithstanding, authorize and license the
establishment, operation and maintenance of cockpits, and regulate cock
fighting and commercial breeding of gamecocks: Provided, That the
existing rights should not be prejudiced;

6. Subject to the guidelines prescribed by the Department of Transportation
(DOT), regulate the operation of tricycles and grant franchises for the
‘operation thereof within the territorial jurisdiction of the City; and

7. Upon approval by a majority vote of all the members if the Senggumiang
Paulungsot, grant franchise to any person, partnership, corporation, or
cooperatives to do business within the City; establish, construct, operate
and maintain ferries, wharves, markets or slaughterhouses; or undertake
such other activities within the City as may be allowed by existing laws;
Provided, That cooperatives shall be given preference in the grant of such
franchise,

d. Regulate activities relative to the use of land, buildings and structures
within the City in order to promote the general welfare and for the said

purpose, shall:
1. Declare, prevent or abate any nuisances;

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Require that buildings and the premises thereof and any land within the
City be kept and maintained in a sanitary condition; impose penalties for
any violation thereof; or upan failure to comply with said requirement,
have the work done at the expense of He owner, administrator or tenant
concemed require the filling up of any land or premises to a grade necessary
for proper sanitation;

. Regulate the disposal of clinical and other wastes from hospitals, clinics and

other similar establishments;

|. Regulate the disposal of clinical and other wastes from hospitals, clinic and

other similar establishments;

. Regulate the establishment, operation and maintenance of cafes,

restaurants, beerhouses, hotels, motels, inns, pension houses, lodging
houses and other similar establishments,

Regulate the sale, giving away or dispensing of any intoxication malt, vino,
mixed or fermented liquor at any retail outlet;

. Regulate the establishment and provide for the inspection of steam boilers

or any heating devise in buildings and the storage of inflammable and
highly combustible materials within the City;

. Regulate the establishment, operation and maintenance of any

entertainment or amusement facility, including the theatrical performances,
circuses, billiard pools, public dancing schools, public dance halls, sauna
baths, massage parlors and other places for entertainment or amusement or
entertainment, particularly those which tend to disturb the community or
annoy the inhabitants, or require the suspension or suppression of the same;
of prohibit certain forms of amusement or entertainment in order to protect
the social and moral welfare of the community;

|. Regulate the establishment, operation and maintenance of funeral parlors

and the burial or cremation of the dead, subject to existing laws, rules and
regulations; and

| Provide for the impounding of stray animals; regulate the keeping of

animals in homes or as part of business, and the slaughter, sale or
disposition of the same; and adopt measures to prevent or penalize cruelty
to animais;

. Approve ordinances which shall ensure the efticient and cffective delivery

of the basic services and facilities as provided for under the “Local
Government Code of 1991", as amended, and in addition to said services
and facilities, shall:

Provide for the establishment, maintenance, protection and conservation of
communal forest and watersheds, tree parks, greenbelts, mangroves and
other similar forest development projects;

. Establish markets, slaughterhouses or animal corrals and authorize the

operation thereof by the city government; and regulate the construction and
operation of private markets, falipapas or other similar buildings and
structures;


3. Authorize the establishment, maintenance and operation by the city
government of ferries, wharves, and other structures intended to accelerate
productivity related to marine life in the preservation thereof;

4, Regulate the preparation and sale of meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, fruits,

fresh dairy products, and other food stuffs for public consumption;

. Regulate the use of streets, avenues, alleys, sidewalks, parks and other
public places and approve the construction, improvement, repair and
maintenance of the same; establish bus and vehicle stops and terminals or
regulate the use of the same by privately-owned vehicles which serve the
public; regulate garages and operation of conveyances for hire; designate
stands to be occupied by public vehicles when not in use; regulate patting
up of signs, signposts, awnings and awning posts in the streets; and provide
for the lighting, cleaning and sprinkling of streets and public places;

6. Regulate traffic on all streets and bridges; prohibit encroachments or
obstacles thereon and, when necessary, in the interest of public welfare,
authorize the removal of encroachments and illegal constructions in public
places;

7. Subject to existing laws, establish and provide for the maintenance, repair
and operation of an efficient waterworks system to supply water for the
City’s inhabitants and to purify the source of the water supply; regulate the
construction, maintenance, repair and use of hydrants, punaps, cisterns and
reservoirs; protect the purity and quantity of the water supply of the City
and, for this purpose, extend the coverage of appropriate ordinances over
all territory within the drainage area of the said water supply and within
one hundred meters (100 m.) of the reservoir, canal, conduit, aqueduct,
pumping station, or watershed used in connection with the water service;
and regulate the consumption, use or wastage of water and fix and collect
charges thereof;

8. Regulate the drilling and excavation of the ground for the laying of water,
‘gas, sewer, and other pipes and the construction, repair and maintenance of
public drains, sewers, cesspools, tunnels and similar structures; regulate the
placing of poles and the use of crosswalks, curbs and gutters; adopt
measures to ensure public safety against open canals, manholes, lives wires
and other similar hazards to life and property; and regulate the construction
and use of water closets, privies and other similar structures in buildings
and homes;

9, Regulate the placing, stringing, attaching, installing, repair and
construction of all gas mains, electric telegraph and telephone wires,
conduits, meters and other apparatus; and provide for the correction,
condemnation or removal of the same when found to be dangerous to the
welfare of City’s inhabitants;

10. Subject to the availability of fund and the existing laws, rules, and
regulations, establish and provide for the operation of vocational and
technical schools and similar post-secondary institutions and, with the
approval of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority
{TESDA) and subject to existing laws on tuition fees, fix and collect

w

4


reasonable tuition fees and other school charges in educational institutions
supported by the city government;

11. Establish a scholarship fund for poor but deserving students in schools
located within its jurisdiction or for students residing within the Ci

12. Approve measures and adopt quarantine regulations to prevent the
introduction and spread of discases;

13. Provide for an efficient and effective system of solid waste and garbage
collection and disposal and prohibit littering and the placing or throwing of
garbage, refuse and other filth wastes;

14. Provide for the care of PWSs, paupers, the elderly, the sick persons of
unsound mind, abandoned minors, juvenile delinquents, drug dependents,
abused children and the youth below eighteen (18) years of age and, subject
to the availability of funds, establish and provide for the operation of
centers and facilities for the said needy and disadvantaged persons;

15. Establish and provide for the maintenance and improvement of jails and
detention centers, institute a sound jail management program, and
appropriate funds for the subsistence of detainees and convicted prisoners
in the City;

16. Establish a city council whose purpose is the promotion of culture and the
arts, coordinate with government agencies and non-government
organizations and, subject to the availability of Funds, appropriate funds for
the support and development of the same; and

17. Establish a city council for the elderly and senior citizen which shall
formulate policies and adopt measure mutually beneficial to the elderly and
to the comununity; provide incentive for non-governmental entities and,
subject to the availability of funds, appropriate funds to support programs
and projects for the benefit of the elderly.

{. Perform other duties and functions and exercise such powers as provided
for under Republic Act No. 7160, as amended, and those that are prescribed
by law or ordinance,

CHAPTER V
PROCESS OF LEGISLATION

SEC. 12, Internal Rules of Procedure, a. On the First Regular session following,
the election of its members and within ninety (90) days thereafter, the Sanggtiang
Pantungsod shall adopt or update its existing Rules of Procedure,

b. The Rules of Procedure shall provide the following:

1. The organization of the Sanggunian and the election of its officers as well as
the creation of standing committees which shall include, but shall not be
limited to , the committees on appropriations, revenues, engineering and
public works, education and health, women and family, human rights,
youth and sports development, environmental protection, peace and order

1s



and traffic, and cooperatives; the general jurisdiction of each committee;
and the election of the chairperson and members of each committee;

2, The order and calendar of business of each session;

The legislative process;

4. ‘The parliamentary procedures which include the conduct of members
during sessions;

5. The discipline of members for disorderly behavior and absences without
justifiable cause for four (4) consecutive sessions for which they may be
censured, reprimanded, or excluded from the session, suspended for not
more than sixty (60) days, or expelled. Provided, That the penalty of
suspension or expulsion shall require the concurrence of at least two thirds
(2/3) vote of all the Sangguniart members; Prorided, further, That the member
convicted by final judgment to imprisonment or at least one (1) year for any
crime involving moral turpitude shall be automatically expelled from the
Sanggunian; and

6. Such other rules as the Smngguirian may adopt

»

SEC. 13. Full Disclosure of Financial and Business Interest of Sangguniang
Pantungsod Members, - (a) Every Sangguniang Ponlungsod member shall, upon
assumption to office, make full of his business and financial interests. They shall also
disclose any business, financial, professional relationship or any relation by affinity or
consanguinity within the fourth civil degree with any person, firm or entity affected
by any ordinance or resolution under consideration by the Sanggumtun, which
relationship may result in conflict of interests. Such relationship shall include:

1. Ownership of stock or capital, or investment in the entity or firm to which

the ordinance or resolution may apply; and

2. Contracts or agreements with any person or entity which the ordinance or

resolution under consideration may affect.

In the absence of a specific constitutional or statutory provisions applicable to

this situation of a specific constitutional or statutory provisions applicable to

this situation, “conflict of interest” refers, in general, to one where it may be
reasonably deduced that a member of the Sangguniat may not act in the public
interest due to some private, pecuniary or other personal considerations that
may affect the exercise of judgment to the prejudice of the service or the public,

b. The disclosure required under this Act shall be made in writing and shall be
submitted to the Secretary of the Souggunia or the secretary of the committee
‘of membership. The disclosure shall, in all cases, form part of the record of the
proceedings and shall be made in the following manner:
1. The disclosure shall be made before the member participates in the
deliberations on the ordinance or resolution under consideration: Provided,
That if the member did not participate during the deliberations, the
disclosure shall be made before the voting on the ordinance or resolution
‘on second and third readings; and

16


2. Disclosure shall be made when a member takes a position or makes a
privilege speech on a matter that may affect the business interest, financial
connection, or professional relationship described herein.

SEC. 14. Sessions, - (a) On the first day of the session immediately following,
the election of its members, the Saugguniang Pantungsod shall, by resolution, fix the
day, time and place of its sessions. The minimum number of regular sessions shall be
once a week for the Sanggtoriang Panlungsod and twice a month for the Sanggraiang
Barangay.

b. When the public interest so demands, special sessions may be called by the City
Mayor or by a majority of the members of the Sanggunian.

¢. AllSanggunian sessions shall be open to the public unless a closed-door session
is ordered by an affirmative vote of a majority of the members present, there
being a quorum, in the public interest or for reasons of security, decency or
morality, No two (2) sessions, regular or special may be held ina single day,

d. In the case of special sessions of the Sanggunian, a written notice to the
members shall be served personally at the members’ usual place of residence
at least twenty-four (24) hours before the special session is held.

Unless otherwise concurred in by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Sanggunian
members present, there being a quorum, no other matters may be considered
at a special session except those stated in the notice,

¢. The Sanggunian Panlungsod shall keep a journal and record of its proceedings,
which may be published upon resolution of the majority of the members

SEC. 15. Quorum. - a. A majority of all the members of the Sanggunian who
have been elected and qualified shall constitute quorum to transact official business.
Should a question of quorum be raised during a session, the presiding officer shall
immediately proceed to call the roll of members and thereafter announce the results

b, Where there is no quorum, the presiding officer may declare a recess until such
time as @ quorum is constituted, or a majority of the members present may
adjourn from day to day and may compel the immediate attendance of any
member absent without justifiable cause by designating a member of the
Sanggunian to be assisted by a member or members of the police force assigned
in the territorial jurisdiction of the City of La ‘Trinidad, to arrest the absent
member and present him at the session.

c. If there is still no quorum despite the enforcement of the immediately
preceding subscction, no business shall be transacted. The presiding officer,
upon proper motion duly approved by the members present, shall then declare
the session adjourned for lack of quorum.


SEC. 16. Approval of Ordinances. - a. Every ordinance enacted by the
Songguitiang Pantungsod shall be presented to the City Mayor, If the City Mayor
approves the same, the signature shall be affixed on each and every page thereof;
otherwise, he shall veto it and return the same with his objections to the Sanggunian,
which may proceed to reconsider the same. The Sanggunian may override the veto of
the City Mayor by two-thirds (2/3) vote of all its members, thereby making the
ordinance or resolution effective for all legal intents and purposes.

b. The veto shall be communicated by the City Mayor to the Sanggunian within
ten (10) days, otherwise, the ordinance shall be deemed approved as if it had
been,

SEC. 17. Veto Power of the City Mayor, - a, The City Mayor may veto any
ordinance of the Sangguniang, Panlungsod on the ground that it is ultra vires or
prejudicial to the public welfare, stating his reasons thereof in writing.

b. The City Mayor shall have the power to veto any particular item or items of an
appropriations ordinance, an ordinance or resolution adopting a local
development plan, any public investment program or an ordinance directing
the payment of money or creating liability. In such case, the vetoed item or
‘items shall not affect the item or items which are not objected to. The vetoed
item or items shall not take effect unless the Sangguniang Panhingsod
overrides the veto in the manner herein provided; otherwise, the item or items
in the appropriations ordinance of the previous year corresponding to those
vetoed, if any, shall be deemed enacted.

¢. The City Mayor may veto an ordinance or resolution only once. The
Sanggunian may override the veto of the City Mayor by two-thirds (2/3) vote
of all its members, thereby making the ordinance effective without the
approval of the City Mayor.

SEC. 18. Review of City Ordinance by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. - (a)
Within three @) days after the approval, the Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlumgsod
shall forward to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for review, copics of the approved
ordinances and the resolutions approving the local development plans and public
investment programs formulated by the local development councils.

(b) Within thirty (30) days after receipt of copies of such ordinances and
resolutions, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan shall examine the documents or transmit
them to the provincial attorney or provincial prosecutor for prompt examination. The
provincial attorney or the provincial prosecutor shall, within a period of ten (10) days
from receipt of the documents, inform the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in writing of
his comments and recommendations., which may be considered by the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan in making its decision.

18


(6) Ifthe Sangguniang Pantatawigan finds that such an ordinance or resolution is,
beyond the power conferred upon fhe Sagguitiang Paulungsot concerned, it shall
declare such ordinance or resolution invalid in whole or in part. The Songguniang
Panlalaweigan shall entor its action in the minutes and shall advise the corresponding
city authorities of the action it has taken.

(d) If no action has been taken by the Sangguniang Pantalawigan within thirty
(30) days after submission of such an ordinance or resolution, the same shall be
presumed consistent with law and therefor valid.

SEC. 19. Review of Barangay Ordinances by the Sangguniang Panlungsod. ~
(a) Within ten (10) days after its enactment, the Sangguniang Barangay shall furni
copies of all barangay ordinances to the Sanggiariong Panlungsad for review as to
whether the ordinances are consistent with law or city ordinances,

(b) If the Sangguniung Pantimgsod fails to take action on barangay ordinances
within thirty (30) days from receipt thereof, the same shall be deemed approved.

{c) If the Sargguninng Paniungsod finds a barangay ordinance inconsistent with
law or city ordinances, the Saugenaiag Ponlunigsed shall, within thirty (30) days from
receipt thereof, return the same with its comments and recommendations to the
Sangguniang Barangay concerned for adjustment, amendment or modification; in
which case, the effectivity of the barangay ordinance is suspended until such time as
the revision called for is effected.

SEC. 20. Enforcement of Disapproved Ordinances or Resolutions. - Any
attempt to enforce any ordinance or any resolution approving the local development
plan and public investment program, after the disapproval thereof, shall be sufficient
ground for the suspension or dismissal of the official or employee concerned.

SEC. 21, Effectivity of Ordinances or Resolutions. - (a) Unless otherwise
stated in the ordinance or the resolution approving the local development plan and
Pali investment program, the same shall take effect after ten (10) days from the date

4 copy thereof is posted in » bulletin board at tho entrance of the city hall of La
‘Trinidad, and in at least two (2) other conspicuous places in the City of La Trinidad
not later than five (3) days after approval thereof.

{b) The Secretary of the Sanggiuian Parlungsod shall cause the posting of an
ordinance or resolution in the bulletin board at the entrance of the city hall and in at
least two (2) conspicuous places in the City not later than five (5) days after the
approval thereof. The text of the ordinance or resolution shall be disseminated and
posied in Filipino or English and the Secretary of the Swngguntan Panlungsod shall
record such fact in a book kept for the purpose, stating the dates of approval and
posting.

19


(6) The main feature of the ordinance o resolution duly enacted or adopted
shall, in addition to being posted, be published once in a local newspaper of general
circulation within the City: Provided, That in the absence thercof, the ordinance or
resolution shall be published in any newspaper or general circulation: Provided,
further, That the gist of all ordinances with penal sanctions shall also be published in
a newspaper of general circulation.

CHAPTER VI
DISQUALIFICATION AND SUCCESSION FOR
ELECTIVE CITY OFFICIALS

SEC. 22, Disqualifications for Elective Public City Officials. - The following
persons are not qualified from running for any elective position in the City:

a. Those sentenced by final judgment for an offense involving moral turpitude
or an offense punishable by one (1) year or more of imprisonment within
two (2) years after serving the sentence;

b. Those removed from office as a result of an administrative case;

c. Those convicted by final judgment for violating the oath of allegiance to the
Republic of the Philippines;

. Those with dual citizenship;

. Fugitives from justice in criminal or nonpolitical cases here and abroad;

{Permanent residents in a foreign country or those who have acquired the
right to reside abroad and continue to avail of the same right after the
effectivity of the Local Government Code of 199, as amended; and

g The insane and feeble-minded

SEC. 23. Permanent Vacancy in the Office of the City Mayor and City Vice
Mayor. - (a) If a permanent vacancy occurs in the office of the City Mayor, the City
Vice Mayor concerned shall become the City Mayor. Ifa permanent vacancy occurs int
the office of the City Vice Mayor, the highest ranking Sangguiang Panlungsod member
or, in a case of his or her permanent incapacity, the second highest ranking
Sangguniang Pantungsed member becomes the City Mayor or the City Vice Mayor, as
the case may be. Subsequent vacancies in the said offices shail be filled automatically
by the other Sanggunian members according to their ranking as defined herein

{b) If a permanent vacancy occurs in the office of the Punong Barangay, the
highest ranking Sangguniang Barangay member or, in case of his or her permanent
incapacity, the second highest ranking Saggunian member shall become the Punong
Barangay.

(©) A tie between or among the highest ranking Sanggurriang Paniungsod
members shall be resolved by drawing of lots.


(d) The successor as defined herein shall serve only the unexpired terms of their
predecessors.

(e) For purposes of this Act, a permanent vacancy arises when an elective local
official fills a higher vacant office, refuses to assume office, fails to qualify, dies, is
removed from office, voluntarily resigns or is otherwise permanently incapacitated to
discharge the functions of his or her office.

(8) For purposes of succession as provided in this Act, ranking in the Sauggurian
shall be determined on the basis of proportion of votes obtained by each winning
candidate to the total number of registered voters in the City immediately preceding,
local election.

SEC. 24. Permanent Vacancies in the Sanggunian Panlungsod. - Permanent
vacancies in the Saigginiang Paulingsod where automatic succession as provided
above does not apply shall be filled by appointments in the following manner:

(a) The Provincial Governor shali make the aforesaid appointments;

(b) Only the nominee of the political party under which the Smmggiaian member
concemed had been elected shall be appointed in the manner herein provided, The
appointee shall come from the same political party as that of the Sanggraian member
who caused the vacancy and shall serve the unexpired term of the vacant office,

In the appointment herein mentioned, a nomunation and a certificate of
membership of the appointee from the highest official of the political party concerned
are conditions sine qua non, and in any appointment without such nomination and
certification shall be null and void ah juitio and shall be a ground for administrative
action against the official responsible therefor;

{6} In case the permanent vacancy is caused by a Suugguniang member who
does not belong to any political party, the City Mayor shall, upon recommendation of
the Saugguniang Paniungscd, appoint a qualified person to fill the vacancy; and

(d) In case of vacancy in the representation of the youth and the barangay in
the Sangguniang Paniungse, said vacancy shall be filled automatically by the official
nextin-rank of the Saugguniang Kahatam or barangay concerned.

SEC. 25. Temporary Vacancy in the Office of the City Mayor. - (a) When the
City Mayor is temporarily incapacitated to perform his duties for physical or legal
reasons, including leave of absence, travel abroad and suspension from office, the City
Vice Mayor of the highest ranking Sangguniang Panlungsod member shall
automatically exercise the powers and perform the duties and functions of the Cil
Mayor, except the power to appaint, suspend, or dismiss employees which only
exercised if the period of temporary incapacity exceeds thirty (30) working days.

21


(6) Said temporary incapacity shall terminate upon submission the
Sangguitiang Panlungsexd of a written declaration by the City Mayor of having reported
back to office. In case where the temporary incapacity is due to legal cause, the City
Mayor shall also submit necessary documents showing the said legal cause no longer
exist,

(©) When the City Mayor is travelling within the country but outside CLLA OL
territorial jurisdiction for a period not exceeding three (3) consecutive BEGNE days,
the City Mayor may designate in writing the officer-in-charge of the office. The
authorization shall specify the powers and functions that the local official concerned
shall exercise in the absence of the City Mayor, except the power to appoint, suspend
or dismiss employees.

(d) In the event, however, that the City Mayor fails or refuses to issue such
authorization, the City Vice Mayor or the highest ranking Seugguniang Paulungsad
member shall have the right to assume the powers, duties and functions of the office
‘on the fourth (4th) day of absence of the City Mayor, subject to the limitations
provided in subsection (c) hereof.

(e). Except as provided above, the City Mayor shall, in no case, authorize any
Jocal official to assume the powers, duties and functions of the office, other than the
Vice Mayor or the highest ranking Saugguniang Panlungsod member, as the case

CHAPTER VIL
‘THE APPOINTIVE OFFICIALS OF THE CITY

SEC. 26. The Secretary of the Sangguniang Pantungsod. - (a) There shall be a
socrotary of the Sangguitiong Paudungsad who shall be a carver official with the rank
and salary equal to a head of a department ar office.

(b) No person shall be appointed secretary to the Sangguniang Paniungsod
unless one is a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good
moral character, a holder of a college degree preferably in law, commerce or public
administration from a recognized college or university, and a first grade civil service
cligible or its equivalent.

{© The socretary to the Sanggeutiang Pantungsot shall receive compensation,
emoluments and allowances as may be determined by law.

(d) The secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod shall take charge of the office
‘of the Sanggrtiang Panlungsu, and shall:

(1) Attend meetings of the Sangguniang Parlungsed and keep a journal of its

proceedings;

22


(2) Keep the seal of the City and affix it with one's signature to all ordinances,
resolutions, and other official acts of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and present
these for signature to the pre presiding officer;

(3) Forward to the City Mayor for approval, copies of ordinances enacted by
the Sengeuniang Pantungsed and duly certified by the presiding officer in a
manner provided in Section 54 of the Local Government Code of 1991, as
amended;

(4) Forward to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) copies of
the appropriations ordinance passed by the Sangguuiaug Paulungsod as
provided under Section 326, Book II of the Local Government Code of 1991, as
amended;

(5) Forward to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan copies of duly approved
ordinances in the manner provided in Section 56 and 57 of the Local
Government Code of 1991, as amended;

(6) Furnish, upon requests of any interested party, certified copies of records of
public character in one’s custody, upon payment to the City Treasurer of such
fees as may be prescribed by ordinance;

(7) Record in a book kept for the purpose, all ordinances and resolutions
enacted or adopted by the Sangguatiaug Panlungsod, with the dates of passage
and publication thercof;

(8) Keep in the office all nonconfidential records therein open to the public
during usual business hours;

(9) Translate into the dialect used by the majority of the inhabitants all
ordinances and resolutions immediately after their approval and cause their
publication together with the original version in the manner provided under
the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended;

(10) Take custody of the local archives and where applicable, the local library
and annually account for the same; and

(11) Perform other duties and function and exercise such other powers as
provided under the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended, and those
that are prescribed by law or ordinance

SEC. 27. The City Treasurer. - (a) The City Treasurer shall be appointed by the
Secretary of the Department of Finance (DOF) from a list of at least three (3) ranking
cligible recommends of the City Mayor, subject to the civil service law, rules and
regulations,

(b) The City Treasurer shall be under the administrative supervision of the City
Mayor whom one shall report regularly on the tax collection effort of the City.

(c) No person shall be appointed Treasurer unless he is a citizen of the
Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a holder of
a college degree in commerce, public administration or law obtained from a
recognized college or university and a first grade civil service cligible or its equivalent
and must have acquired experience in treasury or accounting service for at least five
(5) years.

2


(d) The City Treasurer shall receive compensation, emoluments and allowances
as may be determined by law.

(c) The City treasurer shall take charge of the City Finance Department, and
shall:
(1) Advise the City Mayor, the Sangguniang Pantungsod and other local
government and national officials concerned regarding disposition of local
government funds on such other matters relative to public finance
Q) Take custody of and exercise proper management of the funds of the City;
(3) Take charge of the disbursement of all funds of the City and other funds, the
custody of which has been entrusted by law or other competent authority;
(4) Inspect private commercial and industrial establishments within the
jurisdiction of the City in relation to the implementation of tax ordinances pursuant
to the provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended:
(5) Maintain and update the tax information system of the City; and
(6) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended, and those that
are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 28. The City Assessor. ~(a) The City Assessor must be a citizen of the
Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a holder of
a college degree preferably in civil or mechanical engineering, commerce, ot any other
related course from a recognized college or university, and a first grade eligible or its
equivalent and must have acquired experience in real property assessment work or in
any related field for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the date of
appointment.

(b) The Assessor shall receive such compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

(©) The City Assessor shall take charge of the City Assessor's Department, and
shall”

(1) Ensure that all laws and policies governing the appraisal and assessment of

real propertics for taxation are properly executed;

(2) Initiate, roview and recommend changes in policies and objectives, plans

and programs, techniques, procedures and practices in the evaluation and

assessment of real properties for taxation purposes;

(3) Establish a systematic method of real property assessment:

(4) Install and maintain a real property identification and accounting systems;

(5) Prepare, install ancl maintain a system of tax mapping, showing graphically

all properties subject to assessment and gather all data concerning the same;

(6) Conduct frequent physical surveys to verify and determine whether all real

properties with the City are properly listed in assessment of rolls;

(7) Exercise the functions of appraisal and assessment primarily for taxation

purposes of all real properties in the City;

24


(8) Prepare a schedule of the fair market value of the different classes of real
properties in accordance with the provisions of Local Government Code of
1991, as amended;

(9) Issue, upon request of any interested party, certified copies of assessment
records of real properties on all other records relative to its assessment, upon
payment of as service charge or fee to the City Treasurer;

(10) Submit every semester a report of all assessments, as well as cancellations
and modifications of assessments to the City Mayor and the Senggurtiong
Pantungsod; and

(11) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers
as provided for under Republic Act No, 7160, otherwise known as the “Local
Government Code of 1991”, as amended, and those that are prescribed by law
or ordinance.

SEC. 29. The City Accountant. — (a) The City Accountant must be a citiren of
the Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a
Certified Public Accountant and must have acquired experience in the treasury or
accounting service for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the date of
appointment.

(b) The City Accountant shall receive compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law,

(©) The City Accountant shall take charge of both the Accounting and Internal
Audit Services, and shall:

(2) Install and maintain an internal audit system in the Ci

(2) Prepare and submit financial statements to the

Sanggumiang Panlungsod;

(3) Appraise the Sangguniang Paniungsod and other officials on the financial

condition and operations of the City;

(4) Certify the availability of budgetary allotment to which expenditures and

obligations may be properly charged;

(5) Review supporting documents before the preparation of vouchers to

determine completeness of requirements;

{6) Prepare statements of cash advances, liquidations, salaries, allowances,

reimbursement and remittances pertaining to the City;

(7) Prepare statements of journal vouchers and theit liquidations and other

adjustments related thereto;

(8) Post individual disbursements to the subsidiary edger and index cards:

(9) Maintain individual ledgers for officials and cmployces of the City

pertaining to payrolls and deductions;

(10) Record and post in index cards details of purchases furniture, fixtures and

equipment, including disposal thereof, if any;

(11) Account for all issued requests for obligations and maintain and keep all

records and reports related thereto;

Mayor and to the

25


(12) Prepare journals and the analysis of obligations and maintain and keep all
records and reports related thereto; and
(13) Perform such the duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under the Local Government Code of 1991, a8 amended, and those
that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 30. The City Budget Officer, —{a) The City Budget Officer must be a good
citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral
character, a holder of a college degree preferably in accounting, economics, public
administration, or any related course obtained from a recognized college or
university, a first grade civil service eligible o its equivalent and must have acquired
experience in government budgeting or in any related field for at least five (5) years
immediately preceding the date of appointment.

(b) The City Budget Officer shall receive compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

(c) the City Budget Officer shall take charge of the City Budget Department,
and shall:

(1) Prepare forms, order and circulars embodying instructions on budgetary

and appropriation matters for signature of the City Mayor;

(2) Review and consolidate the budget proposals of different departments and

offices of the City;

(3) Assist the City mayor in the preparation of the budget and during budget

hearings;

(4) Study and evaluate budgetary implications of proposed legislation and

submit comments and recommendations thereon;

(5) Submit periodic budgetary reports to the Department of Budget and

Management (DBM);

(6) Coordinate with the City Treasurer, the City Accountant and the City

Planning and Development Coordinator for the purpose of budgeting;

(7) Assist the Sexggnuimy Panlengsod in reviewing, the approved budgets for

the component barangays;

(8) Coordinate with the City Planning and Development Coordinator in the

formulation of the development plan of the City; and

(9) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise other powers as

provided under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended, and those

that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 31. The City Planning and Development Officer. — (a) The City Planning
and Development Officer must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the City of
La Trinidad, of good moral character, a holder of a college degree preferably in urban
planning, development studies, economics, public administration, or any related
course obtained from a recognized college or university, a first grade civil service
cligible and must have acquired experience in development planning or in any related
field for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the date of appointment.

26


(b) The City Planning and Development Officer shall receive compensation,

‘emoluments and allowances as may be determined by law.

Planning and Development Coordinating, Office, and shal

(©) The city planning and Development Officer shall take charge of the City

(1) Formulate integrated economic, social, physical and other development
plans and policies for consideration of the City;

(2) Conduct continuing studies, researches, and training programs necessary to
evolve plans and programs for implementation;

(3) Integrate and coordinate all sectoral plans and studies undertaken by the
different functional groups and agencies;

(4) Monitor and evaluate the implementation of the different development
programs, projects and activities in the City in accordance with the approved
development plan;

(5) Prepare comprehensive plans and other development planning documents
for the consideration of the Local Development Council;

(6) Analyze the income and expenditure patterns, and formulate and
recommend fiscal plans and policies for consideration of the finance committee
of the Sanggumang Panttotgsad;

(7) Promote people's participation in development planning within the City;
(8) Exercise supervision and control over the secretariat of the Local
Development Council; and

(9) Perform such other functions and duties and exercise such other powers as
provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended, and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance,

SEC. 32. The City Engineer. —

. The City Engineer must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the City of

La Trinidad, of good moral character, a licensed civil engineer and must have
acquired experience in the practice of the profession for at least five (5) years
immediately preceding the date of appointment.

|. The City Engineer shall receive such compensation, emoluments and

allowances as may be determined by law.

‘The City Engineer shall take charge of the City Engineering Office, and shall:
(2) Initiate, review and recommend changes in policies and objectives, plans
and programs, techniques, procedures and practices in infrastructure:
development and public works in general of the City;

(2) Advise the City Mayor on infrastructure, public works and other
engineering matters.

@) Administer, coordinate, supervise and control the construction,
maintenance, improvement and repair of roads, bridges, and other engineering
and public works projects of the Ci

a


(4) Provide engineering services to the City, including investigation and
survey, engineering designs, feasibility studies and project management; and
(5) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
may be provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended.
and those that are prescribed by law ar ordinance.

SEC. 33. The City Health Officer —

The City Health Officer must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the
City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a licensed medical practitioner
that must have acquired experience in the practice of the profession for at least
five (5) years immediately preceding the date of appointment,

. The City Health Officer shall receive such compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

‘The City Health Officer shall take charge of the Office of the Health Services,
and shall:
(1) Supervise the personnel and staff of the said office, formulate program
implementation guidelines and rules and regulations for the operation of the
said office for the approval of the City Mayor in order to assist him in the
efficient, effective and economical implementation of health service programs
geared to implement health-related projects and activities;
(@) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Saugguniang Panlungsod
and provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out
activities to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate
facilities relative to health services provided under Section 17 of the “Local
Government Code of 1991", as amended;
(3) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thereof by the City Mayor,
implement these health programs and projects which the City Mayor is
empowered to implement and which the Sangguniang Panlungsod is
empowered to provide under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as
amended;
® ih addition to the foregoing duties and functions, the City Health Officer
al
(2) Formulate and implement policies, plans and projects to promote the
health of the people in the City
(ii) Advise the City Mayor and the Senggimiang Partiungsad on matters
pertaining to health;
{iii) Execute and enforce all laws, ordinances and regulations relating, to
public health;
{iv) Recommend to the Sangguniang Paniungsod through the Local
Health Board, the passage of the ordinance as may be deemed necessary
for the preservation of public health;
(v) Recommend the prosecution of any violation of sanitary laws,
ordinances and regulations;

23


(vi) Direct the sanitary inspection of all business establishments, stores
selling food items or providing accommodations such as hotels, motels,
lodging, houses, pension house, and the like, in accordance with the
Sanitation Code of the Philippines; and
(vii) Conduct health information campaigns and render health
intelligence services;
(viii) Coordinate with other government agencies and nongovernment
organizations involved in the promotion and delivery of health services;
(9) Be in the frontline of the delivery of health services, particularly
during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters and
calamities; and
(5) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise sach other powers as
provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended, and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 34. The City Civil Registrar ~

. The City Civil Registrar must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the
City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a holder of a college degree
obtained from a recognized college or university, a first grade civil service
cligible or its equivalent and must have acquired experience in civil registry
work for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the date of appointment.

. The City Civil Registrar shall receive such compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

The City Civil Registrar shall be responsible for the civil registration program
in the City of La Trinidad, pursuant to the Civil Registry Law, the Omnibus
Election Code, and the other pertinent laws, rules and regulations issued to
implement them.

|. The City Civil registrar shall take charge of the City Civil Registry, and shall:
(1) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thereof by the City Mayor,
implement the same, particularly those which have to do with the civil registry
programs and projects which the City mayor is empowered to implement and
which the Savggurriang Paulungsod is empowered to provide under the “Local
‘Government Code of 1991", as amended.
(2) In addition to the foregoing duties and functions, the City Civil Registrar
shall.
(i) Accept all registrable documents and judicial decrees affecting the
civil status of persons;
(ii) File, keep and preserve in a secure place the books required by law:
(iii) Transcribe and enter immediately upon receipt all registrable
documents and judicial decrees affecting the civil status of persons in
the appropriate civil registry books;

29



{iv) Transmit to the Office of the Civil Registrar-General within the
prescribed period, duplicate copies of the registered documents
required by law;
(v) Issued certified transcripts or copies of any certificate or registered
document upon payment of the required fees to the City Treasurer;
(vi) Receive applications for the issuance of a marriage license and, after
determining that the requirements and supporting certificates and
publication thereof for the prescribed period have been complied with,
issue the license upon payment of authorized fee to the City Treasurer;
and
(vii) Coordinate with the National Statistics Office in conducting
educational campaigns for vital registration and assist in the preparation
of demographic and other statistics for the City of La Trinidad.
(3) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for the “Local Government Cote of 1991”, as amended, and those
that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 35. The City Administrator —

. ‘The City Administrator must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the

City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a holder of a college degree
preferably in public administration, law or other related course obtained from
a recognized college or university, a first grade civil service eligible or its
equivalent and must have acquired experience in management and
administrative work for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the date
of appointment.

. The term of the City Administrator is co-terminus with that of the appointing

authority.

. The City Administrator shall receive compensation, emoluments and

allowances as may be determined by law;

|. The City Administrator shall take charge of the City Administrator's Office,

and shall:

(1) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thereof and upon
approval thereof by the City Mayor, particularly those which have to de with
the management and administration-related programs and projects which the
City mayor is ompowered to implement and which the Sangguniang Paniturgsod
is empowered to provide under the “Local Government Code of 1991", as
amended;

(2) Assist in the coordination of the work of all officials of the local government
unit, under the supervision, direction and control of the City Mayor and, for
this purpose, convene the chiefs of offices and other officials of the local
government unit;


(3) Establish and maintain a sound personnel program for the local government
unit designed to promote career development and uphold the merit principle
in the local government service;

(4) Conduct a continuing organizational development of the local government
unit with the end view of instituting effective administrative reforms;

(5) Be in the frontline of the delivery of administrative support services,
particularly those related to situations during and in the aftermath of man-
made and natural disasters and calamities; and

(6) Recommend the Sanggiiang Panlungsod and advise the City mayor on all
matters relative to the management and administration of the City.

(©) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for the "Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended, and those that are
prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 36. The City Legal Officer —

a. The City Legal Officer must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the City
of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a member of the Philippine Bar and
must have practiced his profession for at least five (5) years immediately
preceding the date of appointment.

b. The term of the City Legal Officer shall be co-terminus with that of the
appointing authority;

c. The City Legal Officer shall receive compensation, emoluments and allowances
as may be determined by law;

d. The City Legal Officer, the Chief Legal Counsel of the City, shall take charge of
the Office of the City Legal Service, and shatl;

(1) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Saggumang Panlungsod
and provide legal assistance and support fo the City Mayor in carrying out the
delivery of basic services and provision of adequate facilities;
(2) Develop plans and strategies and upon approval thereof by the City Mayor,
implement the same, particularly those which have programs and projects
related to legal services which the City Mayor is empowered to implement and
which the Sangguniang Panlingsed is empowered to provide under the “Local
Government Code of 1991", as amended.
(3) Represent the local government unit in all civil actions and special
proceedings wherein the local government unit or any official thereof, in his or
her official capacity, is a party. Provided, that in actions or proceedings where
the City of La Trinidad is a party adverse to the provincial government or to
another component city, a special legal officer may be employed to represent
the adverse party.
(4) When required by the City Mayor or Sauggimiang Panlungsod, draft
ordinances, contracts, bonds, leases and other instruments invelving any

31


interest of the City and provide comments and recommendations on any
instruments already drawn;

(6) Render his opinion in writing on any question of law when requested to do
so by the City Mayor or the Sangguniang;

(6) Investigate or cause to be investigated any local official or employee for
administrative neglect or misconduct in office, and recommend the appropriate
action to the City Mayor or the Sangguniang, as the case may be.

(7) Investigate or cause to be investigated any person, firm or corporation
holding any franchise or exercising any privilege for failure to comply with any
term or condition in the grant of such franchise or privilege and recommend
appropriate actions to the City Mayor or Serggumtian, as the case may be;

(8) When directed by the City Mayor or the Sangguniang, initiate and prosecute,
in the interest of the local government unit concerned any civil action on any
bond, lease or other contact upon any breach or violation thereof; and

(9) Review and submit recommendations on ordinances approved and
executive orders issued by component units;

(10) Recommend measures to the Sungguniang Panlungsod and advise the City
Mayor on all matters related to the upholding of the rule of law;

(11) Be in the frontline of protecting human rights and prosecuting any
violations thereof, particularly those which occur during and in the aftermath
of man-made or natural disasters and calamities; and

(12) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers
as provided for in the “Local Government Side of 1991”, as amended, and those
that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 37, The City Social Welfare and Development Officer -

. The City Social Welfare and Development Officer must be a citizen of the
Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a
duly licensed social worker or a holder of a college degree preferably in
sociology or any other related course obtained from a recognized college or
university, a first grade civil service eligible or its equivalent and must have
acquired experience in the practice of social work for at least five (5) years
immediately preceding the date of appointment.

. ‘The City Social Welfare and Development Officer shall receive compensation,
emoluments and allowances as may be determined by law.

The City Social Welfare and Development Officer shall take charge of the Office
of the Social Welfare and Development, and shall:

(1) Formulate measures for the approval of the Sangguniang Ponlungsod and
provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out
measures to ensure delivery of basic services and the provision of adequate
facilities relative to social welfare and development services;

(2) Develop plans and strategies and upon arrival thereof by the City Mayor,
implement the same, particularly those which have to do with social welfare

32


programs and projects which the City Mayor is empowered to implement and
which the Sangguniang Pandungsex! is empowered to provid
(3) Identify basic nceds of the needy, the disadvantaged and impoverished and
develop and implement appropriate measures to alleviate their problems and
improve their living conditions;

(4) Provide relief and appropriate crisp intervention for victims of abuse and
exploitation and recommend appropriate measures to deter further abuse and
cexploitations;

(5) Assist the City Mayor, as the case may be, in implementing the barangay
level program for the total development and protection of children up to six (6)
years of age;

(6) Facilitate the implementation of welfare programs for the disabled, elderly
and victims of drag addiction, the rehabilitation of prisoners and parolees, the
prevention of juvenile delinquency and such other activities which would
climinate and minimize the ill-effects of poverty;

(7) Initiate and support welfare programs that will enhance the role of the
youth in nation building;

(8) Coordinate with government agencies and nongovernment organizations
which have for their purpose the promotion and the protection of all the needy,
disadvantaged, underprivileged or impoverished groups or individuals,
particularly those identified to be vulnerable and high risk to exploitation,
abuse and neglect;

(9) Be in the frontline of the delivery of services particularly those which have
to do with immediate relief and assistance during and in the aftermath of man-
made and natural disasters and calamities;

(10) Recommend to the Sangguniang Panlungsod and advise the City Mayor on
all matters related to social welfare and development services which will
improve the livelihood and living conditions of the City’s inhabitants; and

(11) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers
as provided for in the “Local Government Side of 1991", as amended and those
that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 38. The City Environment and Natural Resources Officer —

The City Environment and Natural Resources Officer must be a citizen of the
Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a
holder of a college degree preferably in environment, forestry, agriculture or
any related course obtained from a recognized college or university, and a first
grade civil service eligible or its equivalent and must have acquired experience
in the environment and natural resources management, conservation and
utilization for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the date of
appointment.

. The City Environment and Natural Resources Officer shall receive
compensation, emoluments and allowances as may be determined by law.

33



c. The City Environment and Natural Resources Officer shall take charge of the
Office of the Environment and Natural Resources, and shall:
(1) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Sangguniang Pantungsod
and to provide assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out
measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate
facilities relative to environment and natural resources as provided for under
Section 17 of the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended;
2) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thereof by the City mayor,
implement the same, particularly those which have to do with the environment
and natural resources programs and projects which the City Mayor is
empowered to implement and which the Sagguttiang Pantungsod is
empowered to provide.
3) Establish, maintain, protect and preserve communal forests, watersheds,
tree parks, mangroves, greenbelts and similar forest products and commercial
forests, like industrial tree farms and agro-forestry projects;
(A) Provide extension services to beneficiaries of forest development projects
and technical, financial and infrastructure assistance;
(5) Manage and maintain seeds and procedure seedlings for forest and tree
parks;
(6) Provide extension services to beneficiaries of forest development projects
and render assistance for natural resources-related conservation and utilization
activities consisted with ecological balance;
(7) Coordinate with government agencies and nongovernment organizations
in the implementation of measures to prevent and control land, air and water
pollution with the assistance of the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources;
(8) Be in the frontline of the delivery of services concerning, the environment
and natural resources, particularly in the renewal and rehal tion of the
environment during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters
and calamities;
(9) Recommend to the Sargguiinng Pantungsod and advise the City mayor on
all matters relative to the protection, conservation, maximum utilization,
application of appropriate technology and other matters related to the
environment and natural resources; and
(10) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers
as provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance,

SEC. 38. The City Architect —(a) The City Architect must be a citizen of the
Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a duly
licensed architect and must have practiced the profession for at least five (5) years
immediately preceding the date of appointment.

(b) The City Environment and Natural Resources Officer shall receive
compensation, emoluments and allowances as may be determined by law.


(c) The City Environment and Natural Resources Officer shall take charge of
the Office of the Environment and Natural Resources, and shall:
{1) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Sangguniang Pantungsod
and to provide assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out
measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate
facilities relative to environment and natural resources as provided for under
Section 17 of the “Local Government Code of 1991, as amended;
(2) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thercof by the City Mayor,
implement the same, particularly those which have to do with environment
and natural resources programs and projects which the City Mayor is
empowered to implement and which the Sangguniang Parlungsod is
empowered to provide.
(3) Establish, maintain, protect and preserve communal forests, watersheds,
tree parks, mangroves, greenbelts and similar forest products and commercial
forests, like industrial tree farms and agro-forestry projects;
(4) Provide extension services to beneficiaries of forest development projects
and technical, financial and infrastructure assistance;
(5) Manage and maintain seed banks and produce seedlings for forest and tree
parks;
(6) Provide extension services to beneficiaries of forest development projects
and render assistance for natural resources-related conservation and utilization
activities consistent with ecological balance;
{7} Coordinate with government agencies and nongovernment organizations
in the implementation of measures to prevent and control land, air and water
pollution with the assistance of the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources;
(8) Be in the frontline of the delivery of services concerning the environment
and natural resources, particularly in the renewal and rehabilitation of the
environment during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters
and calamities;
(9) Recommend the Sangguniang Pantungsot and advise the City Mayor on all
matters relative to the protection, conservation, maximum. utilization,
application of appropriate technology and other matters related to the
environment and natural resources; and
(10) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers
as provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 39, The City Architect —(a) The City Architect must be a citizen of the
Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a duly
licensed architect and must have practiced the profession for at least five (5) years
immediately preceding the date of appointment,

{b) The City Architect shall receive compensation, emoluments and allowances
as may be determined by law.

35


(c) The City Architect shall take charge of the Office of Architectural Planning
and Design, and shall:
(1) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Sanggraniang Panlungsod
and provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out
measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provisions of adequate
facilities relative to architectural planning and design;
(2) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thereof by the City Mayor,
implement these architectural planning and design programs and. projects
which the City Mayor is empowered to implement and which the Smigginiang
Panlungsod is empowered to provide under the “Local Government Code of
1991", as amended;
(3) Prepare and recommend for consideration of the Sanggunian the
architectural plan and design for the local government unit or a part thereof,
including the renewal of slums and blighted areas, land reclamation activities,
the greening of land, and appropriate planning or marine and foreshore areas;
(4) Review and recommend for appropriate action of the Sanggunian or the
City Mayor as the ease may be, the architectural plans and design submitted by
governmental and nongovernmental entities or individuals, particularly those
of undeveloped, underdeveloped, and poorly designed areas; and
(5) Coordinate with government and non-government entities and individuals
involved in the aesthetics and the maximum utilization of the land and water
within the jurisdiction of the local government unit to implement plans and
programs that shall preserve cnvironmental integrity and ecological balance;
(6) Be in the front line of the delivery of services involving architectural
planning and design, particularly those related to the redesigning of spatial
distribution of basic facilities and physical structures during and in the
aftermath of man-made and natural disasters and calamities;
(7) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991", as amended, and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance,

SEC. 40. The City Information Officer —(a) The City Information Officer must
be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral
character, a holder of a college degree preferably in Journalism, mass communication
or any related course obtained from a recognized college or university, a first grade
civil service eligible or its equivalent and must have acquired experience in writing
articles and research papers, or writing for print, television or broadcast media for at
least three (3) years immediately preceding the date of appointment,

(b) The City Information Officer shall receive compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

(©) The City Information Officer shall take charge of the Office on Public
Information and Community relations Department and shall:

(1) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Sangguniang Pantngsod

and provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in providing,


the information and research data required for the delivery of basic services
and provision of adequate facilities so that the public becomes aware of the said
services and may fully avail of the same;

(2) Develop plans and strategies and, apon approval thereof by the City Mayor,
implement the same, particularly those which have to do with public
information and research data to support programs and projects which the City
Mayor is empowered to implement and which the Sexggumiang Paulungsod is
empowered to provide.

(3) Provide relevant, adequate, and timely information to the City and its
residents;

(4) Furnish information and data on local government agencies or offices as
may be required by law or ordinance; and nongovernmental organizations to
‘be furnished to the said agencies and organizations; and

(5) Maintain effective liaison with the various sectors of the community on

matters and issues that affect the livelihood and the quality of life of the
inhabitants and encourage support for programs of the local and national
government;

(6) Be in the front line in providing information during and in the aftermath of
man-made and natural disasters and calamities, with special attention to the
victims thereof, to help minimize injuries and casualties during and after the
emergency, and to accelerate relief and rehabilitation;

(7) Recommend to the Saugguniang Paninngsod and advise the City Mayor on
all matters relative to public information and research data as it relates to the
socioeconomic development of the City; and

(8) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991", as amended, and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 41. The City Cooperatives Officer —

(a) The City Cooperatives Officer must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident
of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a hokler of a college degree
preferably in Business Administration with special training on cooperatives or any
related course obtained from a recognized college or university, a first grade civil
service eligible or its equivalent and must have acquired experiences in cooperatives
organization and management for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the
date of appointment.

(b) The City Cooperatives Officer shall receive compensation, emoluments and
alfowances as may be determined by law.

(©) The City Cooperatives Officer shall take charge of the Office for the
Development of Cooperatives and shall:

(1) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Saigguitiang Pantungsid

and provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out

measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of facilities

7


through the development of cooperatives and in providing access to such
services and facilitie
(2) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thereof by the City Mayor,
implement the same, particularly these with the integration of cooperative
principles and methods in programs and projects which the City Mayor is
empowered to implement and which the Sanggusiang Panlungsod is
empowered to provide;

(3) Assist in the organization of cooperatives;

(4) Provide technical assistance and other forms of assistance to existing
cooperatives to enhance their viability as an economic enterprise and social
organization;

(5) Assist cooperatives in establishing linkages with government agencies and
nongovernmental organizations involved in the promotion and integration of
the concept of cooperatives in the livelihood of the people and other
community activities;

(6) Be in the frontline cooperative organization, rehabilitation or viability
enhancement, particularly during and in the aftermath of man-made and
natural disasters and calamities, to aid in their survival and, if necessary,
subsequent rehabilitation;

(7) Recommend to the Sanggustiang Panlungsx! and advise the City Mayor on
all matters relative to cooperatives development and viability enhancement
which will improve the livelihood and quality of life of inhabitants; and

(8) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended, and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 42. The City Population Officer — (a) The City Population Officer must be
a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, a good moral
character, a holder of a college degree preferably with specialized training. in
population development obtained from a recognized college or university, a first
grade civil service eligible or its equivalent and must have acquired experience in the
implementation of programs on population development or responsible parenthood
for at least five (5) years immediately preceding the date of appointment.

{b) The City Population Officer shall receive compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

(©) The City Population Officer shall take charge of the Office of Population
Development and shall:

(1) Formulate measures for the consideration of the Sangguniang Pandungsxt
and provide technical assistance and support ta the City Mayor in carrying out
measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provisions for adequate
facilities relative to the integration of the population development, principles
and providing access to said services and facilities:

(2) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thercof by the City Mayor,
implement these with the integration of population development principles



and methods in programs and projects which the City Mayor is empowered to

implement and which the Suiggnniang Panlungsod;

(3) Assist the City Mayor in the implementation of the Constitutional

provisions relative to population development and the promotion of
ible parenthood;

(4) Establish and maintain an updated data bank for program operations,

development planning and an educational program to ensure the people's

participation in and understanding of population development;

(5) Implement appropriate training programs responsive to the cultural

heritage of the inhabitants.

(6) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as

provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991", as amended and

those that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 43. The City Veterinarian —(a)Uhe City Veterinarian must be a citizen of
the Philippines, a resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a
licensed Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and must have practiced the profession at
least three (3) years immediately preceding the date of appointment

(b) The City Veterinarian shall receive compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

(€) The City Veterinarian shall take charge of the Office of Veterinary Services,
and shall:

(1) Formulate measures for consideration of the Sanggreniang Pantargsod and

provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out

measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate

facilities;

(2) Develop plans and strategies, and upon approval thereof by the City mayor,

implement the same, particularly those which have to do with veterinary-

related activities which the City Mayor is empowered to implement and which

the Sangguniang Panlungsod is empowered to provide;

(3) Advise the City Mayor on all matters pertaining to the slaughter of animals

for human consumption and the regulation of slaughterhouses;

(4) Regulate the kceping of domestic animals;

(3) Regulate and inspect poultry, milk and dairy products for human

consumption;

(6) Enforce all laws and regulations for the prevention of cruelty of animals;

(7) Take the necessary measures to eradicate, prevent or cure all forms of

animal diseases

(8) Be in the frontline veterinary-related activities, such as the outbreak of

highly contagious and deadly discascs and in situations resulting in the

depletion of animals for work and in human consumption, particularly those

arising from and in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters and

calamities;

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(9) Recommend to the Sauggtnimg Partlungsnl and advise the City Mayor on
all matters relative to veterinary services which will increase the number and.
improve the quality of livestock, poultry and other domestic animal used for
work or human consumption; and

(10) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers
as provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 44. The City General Services Officer ~

(a) The City Genoral Services Officer must be a citizen of the Philippines. a
resident of the City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a holder of a college
dogrce in public administration, business administration and management obtained
from a recognized college or university, a first grade civil service eligible or its
equivalent and must have acquired experience in gencral services, including
management of supply, solid waste disposal, and general sanitation for at least five
(5) years immediately preceding the date of appointment.

(b) The City General Services Officer shall receive compensation, emoluments
and allowances as may be determined by law.

{c) The City General Services Officer shall take charge of the Office of General
Services, and shall:

(1) Formulate measures for consideration of the Sangguniang Pantungsod and
provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out
measures to ensure the delivery of basic services expertise and technical
support services;

(2) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thereof by the City Mayor,
implement these with the general services that are supportive of the welfare of
the inhabitants of the City which the City Mayor is empowered to implement
and which the Sangguniang Pauluugsod is empowered to provide:

(3) Take custody of and be accountable for all properties, real or personal,
owned by the City, and those granted to it in the form of donation, reparation,
assistance and counterpart of joint projects;

(4) With the approval of the City Mayor, assign building or land space to local
officials or other public officials, who by law, are entitled to space;

(5) Recommend to the City Mayor reasonable rental rates for local government
properties, whether real or personal, which will be leased to public or private
entities by the local government;

(6) Maintain and supervise janitorial, security, landscaping and other related
services in all local goverment public buildings and other reat property,
whether owned or leased by the City;

(7) Collate and disseminate information regarding prices, shipping and other
costs of supplies and other items commonly used by the City:


(8) Perform archival and record management with respect to records of offices
and the department of local government unit;

(9) Perform all other functions pertaining to supply and property management
heretofore performed by the local government treasurer and enforce policies
‘on records creation, maintenance, and disposal;

(10) Be in the frontline of general services-related activities, such as the possible
and imminent destruction or damage to records, supplies, propertics, and
structure materials or debris, particularly during and in the aftermath of man-
made and natural disasters and calamities;

(11) Recommend to the Sangguniang Pantungsad and advise the City Mayor on
all matters relative to general services; and

(12) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers
as provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991”, as amended and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance.

SEC. 45. The City Agriculturist ~

(a) The City Agriculturist must be a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the
City of La Trinidad, of good moral character, a holder of a college degree preferably
in agriculture or any other related course obtained from a recognized college or
university, a first grade civil service eligible or its equivalent and must have practiced
his profession in agriculture or acquired experience in a related filed for at least five
(5) years immediately preceding the date of appointment

{b) The City Agriculturist shall receive compensation, emoluments and
allowances as may be determined by law.

(©) The City Agriculturist shall take charge of the Office for the Agricultural
Services, and shall:

(1) Formulate measures for the approval of the Sangguniang Panitargsad and
provide technical assistance and support to the City Mayor in carrying out
measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate
facilitics relative to agricultural services;
(2) Develop plans and strategies and, upon approval thercof by the City Mayor,
implement the same, particularly those which have to do with agricultural
programs and projects which the City Mayor is empowered to implement and
which the Sanggritiang Pautlungsod is empowered to provide;
(3) ln addition to the foregoing duties and functions, the agriculturist shall:
() Ensure that maximum assistance and access to resources in
production, processing and marketing of agricultural and aqua-cultural
and marine products are extended to farmers, fishermen and local
entrepreneurs;
(i) Conduct or cause to be conducted location-specific agricultural
researches and assist in marking available the appropriate technology
arising out of and disseminating information on basic research on crops,

a


prevention and control of plant diseases and pests, and other agricultural

matters which will maximize productivity;

(iii) Assist the City Mayor in the establishment and extension services of

demonstration farms of aqua-culture marine products;

iv) Enforce rules and regulations relating to agriculture and aqua-

culture; and

(v) Coordinate with government agencies and non-governmental

organizations in the promotion of agricultural productivity through

appropriate technology compatible with environmental integrity;
(4) Be in the frontline of the delivery of basic agricultural services, particularly
those needed for the survival of the inhabitants during and in the aftermath of
man-made and natural isters and calamitie:
(5) Recommend to the Sangguniang Pauiungsed and advise the City Mayor on
all matters related to agriculture and aquaculture which will improve the
livelihood and living conditions of the inhabitants; and
(6) Perform such other duties and functions and exercise such other powers as
provided for under the “Local Government Code of 1991", as amended, and
those that are prescribed by law or ordinance,

CHAPTER VILL
THE CITY FIRE STATION SERVICE, THE CITY JAIL SERVICE, THE CITY
SCHOOL DIVISION AND CITY PROSECUTION SERVICE

SEC. 46. The City Fire Station Service. —

{a) There shall be established in the City at least one (1) fire station with
adequate personnel, firefighting facilities and equipment, subject to the standards,
rules and regulations that may be promulgated by the Department of Interior and
Local Government. The City shall provide the necessary land or site of the station,

{b) The City Fire Station Service shall be headed by a City Fire Marshal whose
qualifications shall be as those provided for under Republic Act No. 9263, as amended
otherwise known as the “Bureau of Fire Protection and Bureau of Jail Management
and Penology Professionalization Act of 2004",

() The City Fire Station shall be responsible for the protection and various
‘emergency services such as reduce and evacuation of injured people at fire-related
incidents and, in general fire prevention and suppression measures to secure the
safety of life and property of the citizenry.

SEC. 47. The City Jail Service. ~

(a) There shall be established an maintained in the City, a secured, clean,
adequately equipped and sanitary jail for the custody and safekeeping of prisoners,
any fugitive from justice, or person detained awaiting investigation or trial and or
transfer to the national penitentiary, and/or violent mentally ill person who

a2


endangers himself or the safety of others, surly certified as such by the proper medical
health officer, pending the transfer to a mental institution.

(b) The City Jail Service shall be headed by a City Jail Warden whose
qualifications shall be as those provided for under the Bureau of Fire Protection and
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Professionalization Act of 2004. One shall
assist in the immediate rehabilitation of individuals or detention prisoners. The City
Jail Warden shall ensure that great care is exercised at all times so that human rights
prisoners are respected and protected, and their spiritual and physical well-being are
properly and promptly attended to.

SEC. 48, The City School Division —

a. There shall be established and maintained by the Department of Education
(DepEd), a city schools division of the City of La Trinidad whose aroa of
jurisdiction will cover all the schools districts within the City.

b. The City School Division shall be headed by a City Schools Division
Superintendent who must possess the necessary qualifications required by
the Department of Education.

SEC. 49, The City Protection Service. —

a. There shall be established in the City, a prosecution service to be headed by
a City Prosecutor and be organizationally part of the Department of Justice
(DO)), and under the supervision and control of the Secretary of Justice and
whose qualifications, manner of appointment, rank, salary, and benefits shall
be governed by existing laws covering prosecutors of DOJ.

b. The City Prosecutor shail handle the criminal prosecution in the municipal
trial courts in the City as well as in the regional trial courts for criminal cases
originating in the territory of the City, and shall render to or for the City such
services as required by law, ordinance or regulation of the DOT.

‘The Secretary of Justice shall always ensure the adequacy and the quality of
prosecution service in the City and, for this purpose, shall, in the absence, lack or
insufficiency in number of assistant city prosecutors as provided herein-above,
designate from among the assistant provincial prosecutors a sufficient number to
perform and discharge the functions of the city prosecution service as provided
herein-above.

CHAPTER IX
TRANSITORY AND FINAL PROVISIONS


SEC. 50. Municipal Ordinance Existing at the time of Approval of this Act, —
The City of La Trinidad shall, unless otherwise provided for by law, continue to be
under the jurisdiction of the Province of Benguet.

SEC. 51. Jurisdiction of the Province of Benguet. —‘The City of La Trinidad shall,
unless otherwise provided for by law, continue to be under the jurisdiction of the
Province of Benguet.

SEC. 52. Suspension of Increase in Rates of Local Taxes. — No increase in the
rrates of local taxes shall be imposed by the City within a period of five (5) years from
its acquisition of corporate existence.

SEC. 53. Legislative District. ~ Until otherwise provided for by law, the City of
La Trinidad shail continue to be part of the First District of Benguet.

SEC. 54. Applicability of Laws. ~The provisions of Republic Act No. 7160,
otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended, and such laws
as are applicable to the component cities shall govern the City of La Trinidad in so far
as they are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act.

SEC. 58, Plebiscite. —The City of La Trinidad shall acquire corporate existence
upon the ratification of its creation by a majority of votes cast by the qualified voters
in a plebiscite to be conducted in the present Municipality of La Trinidad within sixty
(60) days from the approval of this Act. The expenses for such plebiscite shall be borne
by the Municipality of La Trinidad. The Commission on Elections shall conduct and
supervise the plebiscite.

SEC. 56. Officials of the City of La Trinidad. — The present clective officials of
the Municipality of La Trinidad shall continue to exercise their powers functions until
such time that a new election is held and the duly-elected officials shall have already
qualified and assumed their offices. The appointive officials and employees of the
Municipality of La Trinidad shall likewise continue exercising their functions and
duties and they shall be automatically absorbed by the City Government of La
‘Trinidad.

SEC. 57. Election of Provincial Governor and Sangguniang Panlalawigan
Members of the Province of Benguet. ~The qualified members of the City of La
Trinidad shall qualify to vote and run for any elective position in the elections for
Provincial Governor, Provincial Vice Governor, Sangguniang Panlalawigan members
and other elective offices for the Province of Benguet.

SEC. 58. Reservation. Nothing herein contained shall preclude the
determination by the appropriate agency or forum of boundary disputes or cases
involving questions of territorial jurisdiction between the City of La Trinidad and any
of the adjoining local government units even after the effectivity of this Act.



SEC. 59. Suecession Clause. ~The City of La Trinidad shall success to all the
assets, properties, liabilities, and obligations of the Municipality of La Trinidad.

SEC. 60. Separabitity Clause. —If, for any reason or reasons, any part of
provision of this Charter shall be held unconstitutional, invalid or inconsistent with
the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended, the other parts or provisions hereof
which are not affected shall continue to be in full force and effect

SEC. 61. Repealing Clause. — All other laws, decrees, rules and regulations or
parts thereof contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby
repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

SEC. 62, Effectivity.~ This Act shall take effect upon its publication in at least
two (2) newspapers of general and local circulation.

Approved,

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