Iloilo: The House of Representatives has chosen Iloilo as one of three pilot areas for the "LEGISHEAR: Bawat Batas Mahalaga," a legislative consultation and public service convergence initiative spearheaded by Speaker Faustino Dy III and Majority Leader Sandro Marcos.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative serves as a platform for Congress to listen to the public's voices and convert their sentiments into legislative bills and policies. It will be implemented in the municipality of Miagao from July 10 to 12.
Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin expressed her enthusiasm about being selected as a pilot area, highlighting the opportunity to hear the local community's voices. This was conveyed during an interview after an orientation session on the LEGISHEAR initiative.
The first day of the three-day event will feature a focus group discussion with around 500 sectoral representatives, joined by heads of 20 government agencies. These discussions aim to gather insights on future bills and policies, as well as improvements to existing laws.
The participating agencies will also deliver services to the public, ensuring that people understand the laws and bills mandating these services. This approach aims to educate the public on how the government and Congress operate.
Miagao Mayor Richard Garin mentioned that the event will utilize the People's Center and the cultural hall to accommodate large and medium-sized crowds respectively. The local municipal offices will be temporarily converted into national offices during the event.
Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. praised the initiative, indicating the provincial government's willingness to assist. He emphasized the importance of starting legislation at the Congressional district level and acknowledged the value of consultations in shaping significant legislations.
Following its rollout in Iloilo, the LEGISHEAR program will be launched in Butuan, Mindanao, after its initial implementation in Isabela for the Luzon area on July 3. If successful, the program is set to expand to various regions across the country.
