In a bold move to modernize governance, former Interior Secretary and current senatorial candidate Benjamin Abalos Jr. has called for significant amendments to the Local Government Code, which he deems outdated after 31 years. Speaking at a press conference in Dumaguete City, Abalos highlighted the necessity to align the law with today’s realities, pointing out that many provisions are no longer practical.
Abalos specifically mentioned the challenges local governments face in funding infrastructure projects like village halls and schools, which often require national assistance. He also addressed the strain on provincial governments to provide essential tertiary healthcare services, such as intubation and specialist care, due to insufficient funds.
His proposals stem from extensive consultations with local leaders, including governors, mayors, and village chiefs. Additionally, Abalos advocated for better compensation for job order workers, suggesting a uniform productivity-based incentive pay system, especially during festive seasons, to ensure fair treatment without overburdening local budgets.
On the economic front, Abalos reignited his campaign to eliminate the Value-Added Tax (VAT) on electricity, a move he believes will reduce living costs and boost the country’s appeal to investors. Despite potential revenue losses, he argues that the resultant surge in economic activity would more than compensate for the shortfall. Abalos referenced his 2005 resolution that temporarily suspended the electricity VAT and a 2013 USAID study suggesting Filipino households could save over PHP6,000 yearly if the tax were abolished.