BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, Philippines – Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez called on members of the 11th Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) to be “ethical, participative, and consultative” in making decisions that will impact the city.
Benitez, along with his executive team, graced the session led by Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran and reiterated his commitment of pursuing a united front to achieve a transparent, accountable, and responsive government that is non-discriminatory to the needs of Bacolodnons.
“Our team is composed of independent minded [people] who have come together with a common goal of establishing a city administration which will truly serve and empower Bacolodnons, especially the poorest and the least among us,” Benitez said.
That message was read from the covenant that Team Asenso formally signed at an event during the campaign season – a message that Benitez wishes would become the basis of how the executive and legislative branch of the lone district shall compose themselves as a government.
“When we make decisions, whether as an executive or member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod we will be ethical, participative, and consultative as we ask ourselves one; will this improve the quality of life of our constituents? Two; is this the best use of our city’s resources? Three; will this create decent jobs and inclusive sustainable economic growth for Bacolod? And number four, will this bring back the trust and confidence of the people in Bacolod,” Benitez pointed out.
Despite being absent during Benitez’s first flag raising ceremony, Familiaran said the SP is ready to provide the administration its “legislative needs” and later called the members of the council to take a photo with the mayor and Lone District Rep. Greg Gasataya.
Benitez believes that the legislative and executive shall have a “smoother” relationship despite six out of the 14 SP members come from the opposing Grupo Progreso camp.
The SP shall have regular sessions every Wednesday and the City Mayor’s Office, through Atty. Lyzander Dilag—Mayor Albee’s spokesman, shall be holding a press conference on Mondays and Thursdays to discuss matters regarding the state of the city.
