QUEZON CITY — The city government is giving residents a bigger voice in how public funds are spent.
Through City Ordinance No. SP-3520, S-2026, accredited civil society organizations (CSOs) and residents can help identify community needs, review budget proposals, monitor projects, and evaluate results.
₱6-BILLION BUDGET PUT UNDER PUBLIC SCRUTINY
The ordinance institutionalizes participatory budgeting, ensuring that the city’s budget is not decided solely behind government doors.
The initiative was piloted last year in 11 frontline departments and offices, where accredited CSOs reviewed approximately ₱6 billion worth of budget proposals.
“EVERY CENTAVO MUST BE RETURNED TO THE PEOPLE”
“Quezon City residents know the needs of their communities best,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said.
She added that the city aims to ensure that “every centavo contributed by the people is returned through honest and efficient public service.”
DIGITAL PLATFORM FOR PUBLIC INPUT
The city will also develop digital mechanisms allowing residents to recommend programs and projects that should receive funding priority.
The ordinance is part of Quezon City’s commitment under the Open Government Partnership to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public participation in local governance.
The City Finance Committee and the Quezon City OGP Local Steering Committee will prepare the implementing guidelines and conduct capacity-building activities for city offices and accredited CSOs.
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