SEN. Francis Escudero urged the national government to carry out the proposed tripartite partnership between the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Education and the Department of Agriculture to hasten infrastructure development at the local level.
Escudero said that according to Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, the proposed framework would prioritize local government units (LGUs) that have proven ability to implement and complete projects, as well as secure peace and order for uninterrupted development initiatives.
”The national government should prioritize LGUs that have demonstrated sound planning, effective implementation and the ability to maintain order,” Escudero said. “When local governments are capable, partnerships between national and local authorities become quicker, more efficient and more meaningful.”
He added that LGUs should position themselves to benefit from the new model by meeting these requirements.
Escudero added that he was glad that Sorsogon is among the provinces that satisfy the criteria under the tripartite arrangement.
He noted that during his tenure as governor from 2019 to 2022, Sorsogon completed key projects, including the Sorsogon Coastal Road, the rehabilitation of provincial and barangay roads, and the strengthening of peace and order through Barangay Development Projects under the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
Escudero said the proposed partnership could serve as a model for future collaborations on infrastructure development, the upgrade of educational facilities and the improvement of agricultural productivity.
”This reflects how the Local Government Code envisioned development — strong national backing combined with capable and empowered LGUs delivering results at the grassroots,” he said.
