DILG exec: Power of barangay officials comes with responsibility

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO— Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Martin Diño on Thursday stressed that while barangay officials, particularly punong barangays, wield enormous powers in the barangay level, they are mandated to fulfill even greater duties or face penalties under the law.

Diño, who spoke before 4,040 barangay officials from the different barangays of Pampanga at the Bren Z. Guaio Convention Center said that the punong barangays are among the “most powerful”government officials in the Philippines.

But the DILG official was quick to remind local officials that such powers are not to be used for abuse and corruption. He also reminded the barangay officials to activate the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Badac) in their respective areas.

He added that barangay officials are mandated to keep peace and order in their areas as well as implement rules from the simple prevention of double parking in barangay roads to waste disposal. He added that officials will face charges if they fail to fulfill their duties under the law.

He added that barangay captains should lead the fight against illegal drugs and ensure there is proper coordination with the local police in their drug campaign programs to ensure success.

Diño was guest of honor and speaker in the multi-hazard disaster summit for barangay officials held at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center. The event was organized by the Provincial Government of Pampanga and was attended by Governor Lilia Pineda, Vice-Governor Dennis Pineda, board members, and the local police among others.