The Mandanas Rule

Batangas Governor Urges

Local Governments to Collaborate for Community Development and Autonomy

Thefirst General Assembly of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines - Mindanao Island Cluster has paved the way for collaboration and cooperation among local government officials in addressing the needs of their respective communities. Governor Hermilado Mandanas’ message emphasized the importance of local autonomy and the fight for fair share of resources from the national government.

He noted that while national and international issues are important, there are many matters that can only be addressed at the local level, such as water supply, farm-tomarket roads, housing, and aid distribution.

Governor Mandanas also shared his experiences in fighting for the rights of local governments to receive their fair share of funds from the national government. He recounted how he won a Supreme Court decision in 20032004 that awarded Batangas Province 60 billion pesos in funds collected by the Bureau of Customs. He urged his fellow local government officials to know their history and to continue fighting for their autonomy and fair share of resources.

The governor emphasized the importance of strengthening the Mindanao conference, as there are still many needs in the region that need to be addressed. He also stressed the need for collaboration among municipalities, as they are the ones closest to the people and can better address their needs.

Governor Mandanas pledged to attend future meetings and continue working with his fellow local government officials to strengthen local autonomy and improve the lives of their constituents. He urged everyone to work together to address the needs of their communities and to fight for their fair share of resources.