While participatory governance has consistently been a priority in Baguio City, citizen engagement is expected to be further strengthened through the recent enactment of an ordinance establishing the People’s Council which seeks to formalize and enhance public involvement in local governance.
On March 31, 2025, the Baguio City Council approved on third and final reading an ordinance institutionalizing mechanisms that allow citizens to meaningfully engage in public decision-making across social, cultural, fiscal, and economic spheres. The ordinance was signed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong on April 4, 2025.
Under the ordinance, all civil society organizations (CSOs) are urged to apply for accreditation. A dedicated city council committee (Committee on Accreditation) is tasked with processing accreditation requests, monitoring compliance, and recommending legislative measures related to participatory governance.
Accredited CSOs may collaborate with the city in basic services, livelihood, and enterprise development. They may form a people’s council which will be formally recognized by the city council as their collective representative. The people’s council must be conveyed by the Committee on Accreditation within 90 days of the effectiveness of the ordinance. Only one people’s council will be officially recognized.
The people’s council will determine its own structures and rules. It must maintain inclusive consultations with government employees organizations and legitimate but non-accredited groups. However, only accredited and member organizations may be nominated to local bodies and enjoy privileges under this ordinance.
Upon its recognition, the people’s council is authorized to elect or appoint representatives from its member organizations to participate in various city government bodies such as boards, committees, and task forces. These representatives must come from bona fide members of the appointed organizations and shall not exceed 25% of the total members of any such body unless otherwise provided. Representatives may take part in government project planning and implementation, propose legislation, and act as public watchdogs in line with constitutional rights to information and access to records.
The people’s council is strictly non-partisan and must not be used for political campaigns or activities supporting or opposing any political party or candidate. Measures should be in place to shield the people’s council and its members from political influence to maintain focus on civic and community interests.
An annual budget of P500,000.00 is allocated for organizing community-based groups and related activities. These funds must not be used for religious or political purposes. A joint committee between the city government and the people’s council will create a three-year plan and guidelines for the use of these funds, subject to accounting rules and the city council’s approval.
Sectoral desks for various groups such as laborers, women, students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities must be maintained by the city government. These desks serve as collaborative platforms for the city and the people’s council to address sector-specific concerns and implement joint actions. Baguio City – Sangguniang Panlungsod
