The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Pampanga has committed to a comprehensive review of a proposed ordinance from the City of San Fernando that seeks to regulate and institutionalize feeding programs and medical missions in the city.
Preliminary Hearing Conducted
This assurance emerged during a preliminary hearing held on Monday, June 29, by the SP Committee on Health, Nutrition and Sanitation on Proposed Ordinance No. 021, Series of 2026. The ordinance has stirred controversy since its filing at the Sangguniang Panlungsod, with some organizations labeling it as 'restrictive and excessively bureaucratic' for outreach programs and donors.
The hearing was presided over by Committee Chairperson and Board Member Kaye Naguit, along with Board Members Claire Lim, David Dizon, Cherry Manalo, and My-My Gonzales. The committee sought clarification on the scope and provisions of the proposed measure.
Attendees and Perspectives
City of San Fernando Councilor Noel Tulabut, the author and sponsor of the ordinance, attended the hearing alongside representatives from the Pampanga Business Circle and Advocates for Genuine and Outstanding Services.
Naguit stated that the provincial board has the power to review proposed measures filed in town and component city councils. 'The Sangguniang Panlalawigan has review powers and we will give suggestions. We will say whether it is approved or disapproved,' Naguit said in Filipino.
She added that the hearing was only the initial step in the review process, and the proposed ordinance would still be presented during the SP's regular session.
Ordinance Defended
Tulabut reiterated that the ordinance is intended to protect the residents of San Fernando, particularly the youth. 'This is not restrictive. We do not even discourage other organizations. Actually, in Naga, there is a similar ordinance, in the City of Palanan and in Palawan there is also. So here in San Fernando, we did this so that everyone who wants to conduct outreach missions can coordinate,' Tulabut said in Filipino.
He noted that similar ordinances have been adopted in other local government units. Tulabut stressed that the proposal aims to establish proper coordination between organizers and the city government.
The city councilor also said that the final draft of the ordinance has reduced the documentary requirements for long-term school-based programs to avoid unnecessary delays and additional legwork for donors. 'I hope they read the entire final draft so they understand that it is not restrictive,' he said.
Amendments Welcome
Tulabut welcomed possible amendments that may be recommended by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. However, he emphasized that the provincial board's authority is limited by law.
'Whatever the recommendation of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, we will study it. If it is applicable, why not. But if so, what the law says is that they can review, but as long as the ordinance is not ultra vires, meaning you did not exceed your authority, you have no liability. Even the wisdom, they cannot question that,' Tulabut said.
