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About

• The Program

  The Program

  A structured process of decentralization commenced in the Philippines upon the enactment of the Local Government Code (LGC) in the year 1991. The LGC was a major step towards the introduction of a decentralized political, fiscal, and institutional structure in the country. Local leaders, citizens, and other stakeholders were granted more freedom but also given more responsibility in determining their development paths. At the core of the reform lied the delegation of specific prerogatives down from central authorities to the local governments. The process is on track, yet there are also a few obstacles such as the relatively slow pace of reform and the overlap or unclear mandates and responsibilities. As a consequence, Philippine citizens and their needs remain slightly detached from governmental structures – be it on a national or local level.
  
  As a joint development effort of the governments of the Philippines and Germany, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) through its Decentralization Program (DP) aims to improve governance and participatory development that should provide for the needs of the people at the local level. The program is composed of three components which constitute three unique paths towards a decentralized governance structure in the Philippines. Indeed, Political Decentralization, Fiscal Decentralization and Capacity Development System for Local Governments are reinforcing GIZ's and its implementing partners' initiatives at making decentralization work – the end of a long road towards a more citizen-friendly administration. DP aims to achieve this in accordance with its integral parts. Firstly, it conducts a needs-oriented and conflict-sensitive planning and thus builds up the basis for sound budgeting in local governments. Secondly, the program contributes to good fiscal governance at the local level by providing a fair, adequate, transparent and efficient tax system. Last but not least, DP targets local governments by disseminating innovative, conflict-sensitive approaches from capacity development providers.
  
  One of GIZ's, and therefore DP's comparative advantages is the close cooperation with partner agencies on both the national and local levels – for instance the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Only through this approach which is based on mutual understanding and regular interaction, decentralization can fully emerge in its most excellent shape.
  
  To learn more about the context, approach and results of the program, please click here.

• Component

  Component

  
  
  To learn more about the context, approach and results of this component, please click here.

• Political Decentralization

  Political Decentralization

  Political Decentralization at GIZ emphasizes and applies needs-oriented and conflict sensitive planning as a pillar for LGU budgeting mainly through two structural avenues.
  
  Locally, capacity development is strengthened by including all stakeholders in the relevant processes. Drafting codes, zoning, ordinances and the preparation of local plans contributed significantly to a more participatory planning mechanism. As a result, LGUs profit from those integrative planning strategies, and implement innovative modules such as conflict sensitivity, adaptation to climate change and disaster risk management in their local plans.
  
  At the national level, the component creates and improves instruments which implement the Local Government Code. Oversight agencies such as DILG or HLURB are supported in their efforts of harmonizing land-use planning and the integration of local development planning. Tools on budgeting, revenue administration, harmonized planning and investment programming - provided by the decentralization oversight agencies - are for instance published now via an online manual (www.jmc2007compendium.com)
  
  The important societal segments of civil society and the business sector are also mutually integrated in decision making processes through collaboration. Inter-local cooperation (ILC)/alliance building serves as a particularly efficient trigger in pooling resources of different LGUs together for a common purpose. In addition, DP is currently co-chairing the Philippine Development Forum (PDF) Decentralization working group on ILC with the DILG.
  
  To learn more about the context, approach and results of this component, please click here.

• Fiscal Decentralization

  Fiscal Decentralization

  Fiscal discipline is an important pre-condition for fiscal strength. But without an efficient collection of revenues, LGUs won't be able to achieve full fiscal autonomy. In order to safeguard substantial results in the field of taxation and financial administration, the Fiscal Decentralization component seeks to empower local governments with tax collection strategies which guarantee a fair, adequate, transparent and efficient revenue system.
  
  Using information technology is an innovative way of achieving this ambitious goal. Indeed, the Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) has proven how effective and useful such a cutting-edge approach might be. Instead of relying and depending on the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA), LGUs resort to iTAX in order to make tax collection a quick, easy and stress-free matter. As an example, the process of tax assessment has become more uniform, accurate and transparent. Moreover, related administrative processes are optimized - and local tax policies enjoy a more standardized application so that coherence is ensured.
  
  So far, the iTAX system has been implemented in several provinces. Among the flagship sites are Negros Oriental with 23 LGUs, and La Union with 19 LGUs. But other provinces adopted the system as well, including Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Cebu and Pangasinan.
  
  To learn more about the context, approach and results of this component, please click here.

• Capacity Development

  Capacity Development

  Developing effective decentralized governance is the first step. Securing capacity building is the essential follow-up. Therefore, DP's third component tries to weave a network of capacity development providers which are systematically providing CapDev services to local governments – in a timely, adequate and proficient manner. Local institutional capacities are thus synthesized and produce positive outcome in communities. Several networks do already exist, and they are instrumental for a truly sustainable path towards decentralization.
  
  Trainings constitute a participatory and interactive method of promoting this institutional knowledge. For instance, a training network for the nationwide implementation of the streamlined Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) has been set up in 2010. Under the leadership of the Local Government Academy (LGA) of the DILG and DTI, trainers were trained in communicating the main messages of the reform. Not only government officials, but also members of academe and the private sector are now ready for deployment in the LGUs to deliver proficient expertise and strong results in streamlining BPLS according to national standards. A similar training took place in Leyte, where trainers of local officials and the academe benefitted from DP's expertise in participatory land use and development planning. In Region VI (Western Visayas), the primary actor of providing those trainings as well as courses on codification is the Local Government Regional Resource Center of the DILG.
  
  DP's experience with Information Technology is also applied in these educational settings. Through e-Learning, the target audiences can grasp the meanings and functions of capacity development tools. For instance, an online capacity development program for local councilors and planning officers was conceptualized in collaboration with the Local Government Development Foundation (LOGODEF) and local universities. Course materials are based on lessons learned and good practices of various GIZ projects in the Philippines.
  
  Overall, CapDev is an ongoing process, offering a broad range of roles and resources for the stakeholders. Filling up the entry points in the decentralization networks via sound dissemination of knowledge is one of the keys for a successful and sustainable institutional reform.
  
  To learn more about the context, approach and results of this component, please click here.

Publications

Publications

• DP Closing Event

  DP Closing Event

  
  A Decade of German Support to Good Governance and Decentralization in the Philippines
  As the Decentralization Program concludes its activities in the Philippines by June 2013, the program has compiled its experience and good practice in a brochure. It shall present an impression of DP's work in the Philippines in hopes that it will be instrumental for others who strive to make decentralization work in their own barangay, municipality, city, province or country.
  View Download (12.63MB)

• LGPMS

  LGPMS

  
  Assessing Public Sector Performance
  The concept of performance measurement has been transferred from industrialized countries to countries in the development process since the late 1990s. Since then, practice of performance measurement of local government has become of increasing interest for both academics as well as development practitioners. Assisting partner countries in continuous decentralisation processes in designing and implementing performance measuring systems to ensure service delivery at the sub-national or central level – based upon a sector approach – has become a trend within bilateral and multilateral development cooperation. Among others, prominent country examples where the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) is or was supporting the development, implementation and/or management of performance measurement systems include Nepal, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Paraguay and the Philippines.
  View Download (0.80MB)

• Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS)

  Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS)

  
  BPLS Inspectorate Team Operations Manual: A Guide for Local Government (2009)
  A manual on the establishment of the Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS) Inspectorate Team, its composition as well as the processes involved in the conduct of business inspections and finally on its sustainability.
  View Download (0.66MB)
  
  Towards One Business Permit and Licensing System: Technical Support to Business Permit Harmonization (2007)
  A guide on the streamlining and harmonization of the Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS) among local government units (LGUs) which may be used in the implementation of a simplified and efficient business license application process and the renewal of business permits.
  
  View Download (8.53MB)

• Local Planning

  Local Planning

  
  SIMPLE: Sustainable Integrated Management and Planning for LGU Ecosystems
  This knowledge product was developed by GIZ together with the national and local partners to come up with an integrated planning and management framework for local governments to address land and resource governance from a "ridge to reef” perspective. This integrated ecosystems approach provides for a comprehensive concept and is described as "Sustainable Integrated Management Planning for LGU Ecosystems” or SIMPLE.
  
  
  View Download (0.23MB)
  
  Facilitator's Guide to Participatory Land Use and Development Planning
  This Guidebook specifically describes participatory land use and development planning (PLUDP) as a step-by-step process which actively involves the barangay in data validation, problem analysis and prioritization of needs, formulation of community vision and mission, formulation of sectoral goals and objectives, and preparation of a comprehensive 6-year development plan.
  View Download (2.26MB)
  
  Harmonization of Local Planning, Investment Programming, Revenue Administration, Budgeting and Expenditure Management: JMC, Series of 2007 (2008)
  This publication contains a primer and an executive brief emphasizing the harmonization efforts of the national government. It also includes a technical report highlighting the salient features of the four manuals of the JMC which serve as a reference guide.
  
  View Download (0.64MB)

• Codification

  Codification

  
  Simplified Manual on Codification: A Guidebook on Harmonization of Local Laws (2009)
  A knowledge product or practical information on codification to guide the local government units (LGUs) in harmonizing their policies and ordinances. This is a knowledge resource generated from field learnings and experiences so that codification becomes easy and is a sensible task for every municipality, city and province.
  
  View Download (0.96MB)

• Inter-Local Cooperation (Alliances)

  Inter-Local Cooperation (Alliances)

  
  Towards Sustainable Cooperation: Proceedings of the 3rd National Summit on Inter-Local Cooperation
  In response to the previous summits, we have gathered concerned government agencies, leagues, development partners and other stakeholders in a 3rd summit to discuss evolving issues on conflicting and misinterpreted policies that are affecting alliances. This documentation is a milestone for the 20th Anniversary of the Local Government Code of the Philippines showcasing the enthusiasm and dynamism of joint efforts for the common good. As the Inter-Local Cooperation journey continues it will learn and evolve towards sustainable cooperation.
  View Download (1.01MB)
  
  Learning Module on the Critical Ingredients in Building and Sustaining Inter-Local Cooperation
  To further complement the cookbook DP developed this publication,Learning Modules on the Critical Ingredients in Building and Sustaining
  Inter-Local Cooperation. It features a Diagnostic Tool which allows alliances to make an initial self-assessment of their level of achievement. As a result, alliances can choose from various capacity development measures which are organized into learning modules to address their specific needs within less than seven training days.
  View Download (1.97MB)
  
  Critical Ingredients in Building and Sustaining Inter-Local Cooperation (Alliances Cookbook) (2010)
  A reference material contributing to inter-LGU alliance building and strengthening by presenting the critical legal, institutional and financial ingredients on alliance formation and strengthening.
  
  View Download (2.81MB)
  
  Lesssons from the 2nd Inter-LGUs Alliances Summit (2010)
  Based on the results of the recommendations of the 1st Inter-LGUs Alliances summit, this 2nd forum documents the sharing of good practices discussions of issues and corners and the validation of findings of the GIZ-initiated Inter-LGUs Alliances cookbook.
  
  View Download (1.08MB)
  
  Making Alliances Work: Lessons from the 1st Inter-Local Government Unit Alliances Summit (2009)
  More than a documentation of the proceedings of the summit which tackled the establishment, benefits, challenges and sustainability of LGU alliances, this publication also contains issue papers on DP’s support to inter-LGU cooperation, financial arrangements in alliances and legal instruments on LGU alliance formation.
  
  View Download (1.12MB)

• iTAX and Local Government Financing

  iTAX and Local Government Financing

  
  Tax Flyers (2010)
  A set of simplified information briefers on the different kinds of local taxes which can serve as good information material for the LGUs and its citizens.
  
  • Real Property Tax (22.9MB)
    
  • Local Business Tax (16.6MB)
    
  • User Charge (15.3MB)
    
  • Community Tax (18.3MB)
    
  • Special Education Fund (SEF) Tax (3.86MB)
    
  View Download (74.46MB)
  
  iTAX Brochure (2010)
  A Overview of the Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) and its features.
  
  View Download ( Warning: filesize(): stat failed for /hsphere/local/home/decentralization/decentralization.org.ph//Editor/assets/GIZ_itax%20brochure.pdf in /hsphere/local/home/decentralization/decentralization.org.ph/includes/helper.php on line 77 0.00MB)
  
  iWATER Brochure (2010)
  An overview of the iWATER module of iTAX and its features.
  
  View Download (0.34MB)
  
  Study on Revenue Generating for Local Governments (Fiscal Decentralization in Negros Oriental) (2008)
  This study documents the implementation of the Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) in the province of Negros Oriental. It also includes a study of revenue systems of selected LGUs in the province and tax-related data from the 11 iTAX pilot LGUs.
  
  View Download (26.64MB)
  
  Local Government Financing: Proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Local Government Financing (2007)
  A documentation of the 1st International Conference on Local Government Financing highlighting the introduction of the Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) in the Philippines. This publication also contains GIZ experiences in improving local financial administration in Latin America, Madagascar, Benin and Ghana.
  
  View Download (1.73MB)

• Newly Elected Officials (NEO)

  Newly Elected Officials (NEO)

  
  Orientation-Assessment of the First Six Months in Office of the Newly-Elected Mayors in Mindanao (2008)
  A documentation of the training of the newly-elected local chief executives in Mindanao on the key concepts and principles of decentralization, development management and strategic planning as well as assessment of their initial performance. It also includes exemplary practices of champion mayors from the Mayors Development Center (MDC) of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP).
  
  View Download (2.15MB)
  
  Orientation for Newly-Elected Mayors in Visayas (2007)
  A documentation of the training of the newly-elected local chief executives in the Visayas on the key concepts and principles of decentralization, development management and strategic planning. It also includes exemplary practices of champion mayors from the Mayors Development Center (MDC) of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP).
  
  View Download (0.70MB)

• Decentralization

  Decentralization

  
  Philippine Review of Economics Special Issue: First PIPER Policy Forum on 20 Years of Fiscal Decentralization in the Philippines
  This special issue of the Philippine Review of Economics (PRE) is completely dedicated to the Papers and Proceedings of the First PIPER Policy Forum on 20 Years of Fiscal Decentralization in the Philippines. This contains a 20-year retrospective on fiscal decentralization by Benjamin Diokno; Assignment of functions and intergovernmental fiscal relations in the Philippines by Gilbert Llanto; The politics of the internal revenue allotment in the Philippines by Paul Hutchcroft and International perspective for a sound intergovernmental finance systems in the Philippines by Jan Werner. Furthermore, it features the very lively roundtable discussion on the role of the local government units in an uncertain world participated in by Gov. Jose Salceda (Albay), Undersecretary Mario Relampagos (DBM) and the late Atty. Roque Tiu (Leyte).
  This PRE special issue is jointly published by the UP School of Economics and Philippine Economic Society and co-published by the PCED Institute of Public Economics and Regulation (PIPER) and the GIZ Decentralization Program.
  View Download (1.45MB)
  
  Revisiting Decentralization in the Philippines (2006)
  A summary of the conference proceedings of the International Conference on Revisiting Decentralization in the Philippines and contains country papers on decentralization from guest speakers Dr. Paul Bernd Spahn (Germany), Dr. E. Koswara Kertapradja (Jakarta), Dr. Damrong Wattana (Thailand) and USec. Austere Panadero (Framework for Assessing Fifteen Years of Philippine Decentralization).
  
  View Download (1.73MB)
  
  Journeys to Participation: Tales, Signs and Directions (2004)
  A rich serving of travelogue stories from Cordillera, Quezon, Naga, Cebu and Mindanao in which these locales share a common legacy of effective participation, weaving a tapestry of institutions, people, processes and outcomes that continue to define and re-define local and community-based democracy, devolution and development.
  
  View Download (1.48MB)

• Service Delivery

  Service Delivery

  
  Challenges and Lessons in Organizing Local Service Delivery Associations: The Case of Water (2006)
  This book provides a holistic approach to organizing local service delivery associations, drawing from the experience and the variety of approaches of several associations in the country and abroad.
  
  View Download (2.31MB)

• Peace and Security

  Peace and Security

  
  ARMM Roundtable Summits on Peace and Security (2007)
  A synthesis of roundtable summits held for the local executives of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to help clarify their roles and capacity the institutional capabilities of the LGUs in the work for attaining sustainable peace and development in the southern Philippines.
  
  View Download (0.41MB)

• Program Factsheets

  Program Factsheets

  
  Program Brief
  Since 2005, the Decentralization Program has fostered local planning, financial management and capacity development for provinces, cities and municipalities. Decentralization aims at enabling local governments to offer high-quality services to their citizens to improve their living conditions. Capacity building equips the local governments with the necessary tools and knowledge to offer these services.
  
  View Download (2.14MB)
  
  Political Decentralization
  A needs-oriented, conflict-sensitive planning that applies across political arenas is conducted and made as the basis for budgeting in local governments.
  
  View Download (0.97MB)
  
  Fiscal Decentralization
  A major weakness of the devolution program is the mismatch between resources and responsibilities that were transferred to local governments. Only if sufficient financial resources are available can public services be delivered and plans implemented. Consequently, revenue mobilization and budgeting are crucial elements of good local fiscal governance.
  
  View Download (1.89MB)
  
  Capacity Development
  By means of a Capacity Development Network for Local Governments, DP aims to root a practice of systematic, peer-based capacity building in local governance.
  
  View Download (1.20MB)

Success Stories

Success Stories

• Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS)

  Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS)

  
  A Stronger Economy on a Single Sheet of Paper (2011)
  Just like the Roman Empire, the lengthy expensive and insufferable process of applying for a business permit has come to an end. The efforts of the GIZ Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) initiative in the Visayas has grown into a full- fledged program implemented on a national scale.
  View Download (3.77MB)
  
  Business Permits! (2010)
  The start of the BPLS initiative by the GIZ Decentralization Program happened in the Visayas. From a small municipality which yielded impressive results, the program has been rolled out to several local governments creating a healthy and more business-friendly environment.
  
  View Download (2.68MB)

• Inter-Local Cooperation (Alliances)

  Inter-Local Cooperation (Alliances)

  
  Learning the Art of Winning (2011)
  In the spirit of Bayanihan, witness how local governments in Negros Occidental worked together in achieving their common goals. The alliances' success not only carried them to a new and better partnership but created a stable foundation for other local governments to build upon.
  
  View Download (2.67MB)

• Codification

  Codification

  
  Rules By The Number (2011)
  With so many rules governing a region, how does a local government cope without creating redundancies and contradictions to its already existing rules? The program's support to codification pushed for the merge and harmonization of ordinances of various local government units.
  
  View Download (2.59MB)

• iTAX

  iTAX

  
  Fosters Innovation for Local Taxation (2011)
  Out with the old and in with the new. The Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) proves that not only death is certain but taxes can be as well. Learn how iTAX strengthens the revenue generation of local governments and achieves transparency on the way taxpayers act.
  
  View Download (1.82MB)

News

News

• A Decade of German Support to Good Local Governance and Decentralization in the Philippines
  22 March 2013

  A Decade of German Support to Good Local Governance and Decentralization in the Philippines

  
  
  
  
  On 22 March 2013, the GIZ Decentralization Program held a Closing Conference at the Mandarin Oriental in Makati City as culmination of its activities in the Philippines, which will end by June of this year. The conference was opened by Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. who is the Senate chair of the Committee on Local Government by enumerating the features of the Local Government Code of 1991, which he called the "bible" of local governments. Other keynote speakers at the event include Senator Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. as the father of the Local Government Code of 1991 as well as the partners of DP, namely DILG Undersecretary Austere Panadero and NEDA Deputy Director General Rolando Tungpalan.
  
  
  Further articles on the event can be accessed here:
  
  
  http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/03/26/giz-doubles-aid-to-manila/
  http://businessmirror.com.ph/index.php/news/top-news/11192-german-devt-program-hikes-aid-to-phl
  http://businessmirror.com.ph/index.php/news/top-news/11058-local-governments-improve-tax-collection-via-itax
  http://interaksyon.com/article/58018/success-pays--germanys-giz-more-than-doubles-funding-to-philippines
  http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/03/25/13/germany-increases-funding-ph-address-corruption-etc
  http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/nation/1857-work-in-favor-of-lgus.html
  
  

• Closing Conference of the GIZ Decentralization Program - 22 March 2013
  15 March 2013

  Closing Conference of the GIZ Decentralization Program - 22 March 2013

  The Decentralization Program (DP) of the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) is convening an International Conference as a culminating event for the program’s closing this year. The theme of the conference is "10 Years of German Support to Good Local Governance and Decentralization in the Philippines.” The conference wishes to reflect on the successes and lessons learned for GIZ-DP, local governance, inter-govern­mental relations and donor support in the Philippines. We are expecting participants from different parts of the Philippines as well as from GIZ partner countries in Asia. 
  
  
  Participation is by invitation only.
  
  
  
  

• DILG takes the lead
  8 February 2013

  DILG takes the lead

  The regional representatives of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) met again to be oriented on the Inter-Local Cooperation (ILC) Cookbook and Diagnostic Tool last 4-6 February in Cebu City.  The 3-day activity’s main objective was to equip the DILG Regional Focal Persons with the necessary knowledge and tools in promoting and supporting Inter-Local Cooperation in their respective regions. The GIZ Decentralization Program provided the necessary knowledge on the Critical Ingredients in Building and Sustaining Inter-Local Cooperation, the Diagnostic Tool and the ILC Learning Modules, all of which were highly appreciated by the DILG regional representatives. The resource persons and moderators included Kareen Oloroso, Sarah Muniz, Arce Chua and EJ Solis.

  With the effort of DILG Central Office through the Bureau of Local Government Development (BLGD), the regions were inspired to revive the alliances that were established through some of the DILG’s initial projects (e.g. One-Cluster, One-Vision for Local Development).  For instance, DILG Regional Office of Cagayan Valley (Region 2) expressed high interest in the re-activation of existing alliances in its area and has decided to create a team to focus on this undertaking.  The regional office sent three (3) representatives to the activity who will further form the region’s ILC team.

  The initial results of the on-going ILC study were also presented to the participants.  It highlighted that at least 25% of all the LGUs (province, city, municipality) have been or are part of an alliance.  The most number of alliances are located in the Western Visayas Region where the intervention of different development partners (e.g. GIZ, CIDA) has contributed to their growth and sustainability. 

  With the understanding and the realization that the participants attained during the said orientation, the request for a national policy on ILC comes with high urgency and importance. 

  The role of the DILG focal persons in the promotion of inter-local cooperation regionally were also outlined and will form part of the suggestion on the policy being prepared.

   

   

• What GIZ cooked up in Tacloban City...
  22 November 2012

  What GIZ cooked up in Tacloban City...

  
  

  From 20-22 November 2012, the GIZ Decentralization Program (DP) in cooperation with the Environment and Rural Development (EnRD) Program held a training of facilitators on the facilitation of the Self-Assessment for Inter-Local Cooperation (ILC) at Jose Karlo Café in Tacloban City. After the initial training of this kind in Bacolod City in July, GIZ adjusted and adapted the training program to include an elaborate presentation of the Critical Ingredients in Building and Sustaining Inter-Local Cooperation or the ‘Cookbook’ as well as the Diagnostic Tool to be used for the ILC Self-Assessment. The training now also provided the opportunity for participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge in facilitating the ILC Self-Assessment in a case study setting to work on individual facilitation skills.

  The training was attended by various stakeholders dealing with alliances in Region 8, including alliance members themselves, provincial agriculturist office staff of Leyte and Southern Leyte, regional DENR, BFAR and DILG representatives, as well as representatives from the academe, the Leyte Island Trainors Pool, and others. The presence of coastal alliances like the Alliance of Local Fishery and Aquatic Resources Management and Development Council (ALFARMDC), Sogod Bay Sustainable Marine Management Alliance (SBSMMA), and Pacific Alliance of LGUs for Marine Resources Development Council (PALMDevC) which are supported by the Integrated Coastal Management component of the EnRD Program through Meann Tercero and Aimee Sobrevega, allowed for application of the ILC Self-Assessment to real-time alliance conditions and come up with initial roadmaps including a capacity development agenda for the alliances.

  The GIZ staff who facilitated and acted as resource persons on inter-local cooperation and the self-assessment tool on the first two days of the training were Kareen Oloroso, Arce Chua, EJ Solis and Sarah Muniz. The dry-run on the third day focused on applying the lessons from the first two days and improving one’s facilitation skills. This was facilitated by Ms. Mia Baguio together with the GIZ DP staff. The participants commended the team for being very competent and well-versed in delivering the essential and relevant knowledge about ILC.

  All in all, the participants completed the training not only with a cookbook and corresponding learning modules at hand to season and sustain alliances but were further equipped with tools and facilitation skills to deal with different types of cooks and help them mix up the ingredients to suit  their taste.

• Four big highlights in marking the Local Government Code Anniversary in Region VI
  21 November 2012

  Four big highlights in marking the Local Government Code Anniversary in Region VI

  Iloilo City.The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) VI in partnership with the GIZ and the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) highlighted the 21st anniversary celebration of the Local Government Code with four major highlights in one big event on October 25, 2012: Regional Land Use Forum, Development Talk, launching of Western Visayas Local Governance Resource Consortium, and Gawad Pamana ng Lahi Regional Awarding Ceremony.

  Among the 347 guests were local chief executives, national government agencies, academe, non-government organizations and other stakeholders with the DILG Undersecretary Francisco "Bimbo” Fernandez as the guest of honor. USec. Fernandez imparted his passion to continue the legacy of the late Secretary Jesse Robredo and to focus his efforts in uplifting the standards of local governance.

   

  The 2^nd Regional Land Use Forum with its theme, "Challenges and Proposed Solutions in Sustainable Land Use and Development,” was a venue for sharing of the LGU’s best practices on the mainstreaming of biodiversity, climate change and disaster risk reduction and management on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan as basis for the local investment programming.

   

  Dr. Andreas Lange ended the forum with a presentation of the SIMPLE (Sustainable, Integrated Management and Planning of Local government Ecosystem) Project as a solution to existing land use problems and concerns especially on the planning processes through integration of the barangay and provincial plans in the municipal or city plans.

   

  The gains of the country’s advocacy for transparency and accountability in local governance which was anchored on the theme, "Strengthening the Journey of Biyaheng Pinoy: Tapat na Palakad, Bayang Maunlad” were showcased in the Development Talk. The presentations and discussions were on the areas of solid waste management, administrative governance, environmental management, social services and the importance of Local Policy Support in the implementation of Development Programs.

   

  The Western Visayas Local Governance Resource Consortium or WVLGRC is a partnership of the DILG Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) with the four big universities in the region namely University of the Philippines-Visayas (UPV), Central Philippine University (CPU), University of San Agustin (USA) and Western Visayas College of Science and Technology (WVCST).

   

  In the launching of WVLGRC, Dr. Mary Ann Gumban of the University of the Philippines in the Visayas presented the consortium’s programs and services. Also present during the launch were Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, President of CPU, Dr. Luis Sorolla, President of the WVCST and Atty. Julius Elvas of USA representing Father Frederick Comendador.

   

  Dr. Herwig Mayer, who has been a staunch partner of DILG Region VI in the decentralization program imparted his enthusiasm to support the current endeavors of LGUs and the Department in Western Visayas.

   

  The awarding of Gawad Pamana ng Lahi Regional Winners capped the celebration. The municipality of Anilao headed by Mayor Ma. Teresa "Matet” Debuque was awarded with a cash prize of P1 million for the municipal category while Iloilo City bagged the award for the city category with Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog looking very proud and happy to accept the cash prize of P2 million. The province of Negros Occidental won in the provincial category and received P3 million cash prize.

   

  Amidst Storm Signal No. 2, the interest and enthusiasm of local officials in the region triumphed as they showed their support by attending the said activity.

   

  Several queries and issues were raised during the open forum showcasing the continuing thirst for knowledge of not just the chief executives but by the other government agencies as well.

   

  The activity also paved the way for the DILG Central Management to learn from the LGUs themselves and discuss their concerns and issues that need to be addressed. It has opened an avenue not just for sharing of best practices but giving and receiving feedback as well.

  
  

• Promoting Inter-Local Cooperation with DILG
  13 November 2012

  Promoting Inter-Local Cooperation with DILG

   

   

  

  In light of preparations of a national policy on Inter-Local Cooperation (ILC), an orientation and consultation meeting was conducted with representatives from the DILG Regional Offices from 16 regions in the country last 13 November 2012 at City Garden Hotel, Makati City.  

  DILG has been working with alliances or clusters of LGUs through their program called One-Cluster-One-Vision (OCOV). The main objective of this program is to improve the locality’s economic development through cooperation with neighbouring LGUs. Accordingly,  the status of selected OCOV clusters was presented including the Cavite OCOV (Luzon), Iloilo Second Integrated Area Development (Visayas), and Manticao, Lugait, and Naawan Cluster or MANLUNA (Mindanao).

  Ms. Analiza Bonagua, Assistant Director of the DILG Bureau of Local Government Development (BLGD) gave a presentation on the DILG-GIZ partnership aiming at the development of this ILC policy.

  A milestone of the said workshop was the adoption of DILG of the Philippine Development Forum’s (PDF) working definition of Inter-Local Cooperation, to wit:

  "Inter-Local Cooperation is a group of local government units that are geographically adjacent or contiguous to each other coming together on a long-term basis to jointly provide services and/or implement programs/projects.  It may include civil society, private sectors, and other sectors.”

  To further pursue the promotion of inter-local cooperation in the Philippines and replicate good practice examples, DILG Regional ILC Focal Persons were designated during the orientation. A follow-up meeting with this group is scheduled in January 2013.

  
  

   

   

   

• Four Big Events Set To Celebrate The 21 Years Of The Local Government Code
  24 October 2012

  Four Big Events Set To Celebrate The 21 Years Of The Local Government Code

  

  Focusing on the institutionalized thrusts of the Department, DILG Region VI in partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) will unfold four major events on October 25, 2012 at Rose Memorial Hall, Central Philippine University, Jaro Iloilo City. This is in part of the celebration of the 21 years of the Local Government Code.

  In its 2^nd year, the Regional Land Use Forum will focus on the theme, "Challenges and Proposed Solutions in Sustainable Land Use and Development”. This will be the venue for the sharing of Local Government Units best practices several approaches in the Comprehensive Land Use Plan as basis for local investment programming.

  Development Talk or DevTalk will showcase the gains of the Department’s advocacy for transparency and accountability in local governance anchored on "Strengthening the Journey of Biyaheng Pinoy: Tapat na Palakad, Bayang Maunlad” as this year’s theme.

  The activity will also include the awarding ceremony for the Regional Winners of the Gawad Pamana ng Lahi which confers recognition to the exemplary performance of LGUs in the region.

  Capping the day-long celebration is the launching of the Western Visayas Local Governance Resource Consortium or the WVLGRC is a partnership between the DILG and the four academic institutions in the region, namely: Central Philippine University, University of the Philippines Visayas, University of San Agustin and Western Visayas College of Science and Technology.
  

  
  

• GIS Map Viewer system is now available for free in Region VI
  28 August 2012

  GIS Map Viewer system is now available for free in Region VI

  The provinces of Antique and Negros Occidental have another reason to celebrate. Starting with these two provinces, GIZ has launched the Provincial Map Viewer in Region VI to share the lessons and benefits that the provinces of Leyte and Southern Leyte have gained upon its implementation.
   
  Even with the advent of technology there are still so many aspects of local governance that need to be developed or enhanced especially regarding geographical information systems (GIS).
  The viewer aims to provide non-technical users who are not familiar with GIS like planners, mayors and governors with access to maps. In this endeavour, GIZ hopes that this viewer will help LGUs come up with better decisions and analysis on land use, environmental management and even urban management.
  Engr. Ubo Pakes of GIS Tailor Made Inc. demonstrated the use of the Provincial Map Viewer which can serve as a
  platform to share GIS information amongst national agencies, the academe and local government units (LGUs).
   
  DILG 6 Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta stressed in her speech during the launch that the GIS Map Viewer can
  be a reliable tool in enhancing land use planning and management of local government units. "For LGUs, you fully
  know how hard it is to garner information and data from the Comprehensive Land Use Plans and Comprehensive Development Plans for example,” she added.
   
  Complementing RD Trompeta's speech is the statement of Dr. Herwig Mayer, Manager of the GIZ Decentralization
  Program, who emphasized the benefits of investing in gathering necessary information for better planning and decision-making of LGUs. He further expressed his hopes that the viewer will be fully utilized by LGUs since the system can be downloaded for free by anyone who wants to make use of it.
   
  Capping the event is the ceremonial turn-over of the Provincial Map Viewer to the Provinces of Antique and Negros
  Occidental and national government agencies, including DILG, NEDA, DENR, DOST, DA and NSCB.
   
  The launching was held on August 10, 2012 at Smallville21 Hotel in Iloilo City.

• Training more “cooks” to support alliances
  5 July 2012

  Training more “cooks” to support alliances

  In cooperation with the GIZ Environment and Rural Development Program (EnRD) and the Conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management Program (COSERAM), the Decentralization Program (DP) conducted a Training of Trainers (ToT) on the Facilitation of a Needs Assessment for Inter-Local Cooperation (ILC) from 3-4 July 2012 at Planta Centro Hotel in Bacolod City.

  The participants included representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), GIZ partner alliances from Negros Occidental and Antique, as well as the academe, namely the University of the Philippines/Visayas, Central Philippine University and University of San Agustin. The DILG was represented by the Bureau of Local Government Development, Regional Offices VI and Caraga, and the Negros Occidental Provincial Office. 

  The ToT was based on DP’s latest knowledge product called the ILC Learning Modules (download here), which complements the publication Critical Ingredients in Building and Sustaining Inter-Local Cooperation (Cookbook). The training was conducted by Sarah Muniz and EJ Solis, who had previously gained experience in conducting the Needs Assessment Workshop for two alliances in Caraga. In essence, the partners were trained on how to conduct a needs assessment for alliances resulting in an accurate diagnosis. This shall form the basis for identifying concrete next steps to address an alliance’s needs with both training and non-training measures.

  Program Manager Dr. Herwig Mayer emphasized the importance of inter-local cooperation for a more efficient delivery of services by local governments. The ToT is part of DP’s efforts to ensure the sustainability of good local practices by validating and widely applying them. Therefore, trainers have to be available to address specific capacity development needs of local governments.

  The training was the first of its kind for GIZ partners in Region 6. Another batch is planned for GIZ Region 8 partners in August in Tacloban City.

• GIZ at the 60th Anniversary of UP-NCPAG
  30 June 2012

  GIZ at the 60th Anniversary of UP-NCPAG

  From 27-29 June 2012, the National College of Public Administration and Governance of the University of the Philippines (UP-NCPAG) commemorated its 60^th founding anniversary with an international conference themed "Public Administration and Governance: Tradition and Transformation” at the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. The keynote address was given by President Benigno Aquino III to formally open the conference. 

  GIZ was invited to chair one of the panel discussions and to submit papers that would be presented. Dr. Herwig Mayer, Program Manager of the Decentralization Program, chaired a panel on Distance Education, E-Learning and Other Innovations, which was organized by the UP Open University. The panel featured various e-Learning courses available or in the making in areas like Solid Waste Management for Local Governments which is offered by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The Civil Service Commission is also currently looking into e-Learning prospects. How local governments can participate in the implementation of e-Learning for Indigent Filipinos is analyzed in a paper by the Raise a Village Project Organization, Inc. The Kaohsiung Open University in Taiwan provided a good practice example of how e-Learning has been promoted and maximized in Kaohsiung.

  

  In the panel on Ecology, Environment, Climate Change and Public Policy, Dr. Andreas Lange, Chief Advisor on Local Governance, presented a paper entitled "Land Use Planning for Climate Change Adaptation in the Philippines: What Can Be Done?”, in which he points out that the Philippines is extremely susceptible to the negative effects of climate change. Although recent policies addressing this issue have been approved, the nation is still ill-equipped largely because it lacks a national spatial planning system for allocating and regulating land use. Therefore, local adaptation measures should be utilized; particularly, no-regret measures such as protection of watersheds, sustainable forest practices, mangrove reforestation etc. Such actions have been proven to be key factors in poverty reduction, and contribute to biodiversity conservation and reduced emission of green house gases at the same time.

  Chief Advisor Sarah Muniz presented a paper on "Linking Plans to Budget at the Local Level” in the Local Governance panel, which highlighted the factors that make it challenging for local governments to link their plans to the available budget resulting in unimplemented projects. The paper was based on a study conducted in 2011 by GIZ in selected municipalities in Leyte and Southern Leyte, which piloted the GIZ planning approach Sustainable Integrated Management and Planning for LGU Ecosystems (SIMPLe). Although the study found that local development projects, which were funded externally through ODA grants or pork barrel, were more likely to be implemented, Ms. Muniz emphasized the importance of project prioritization in the plans and allocating budget sourced from own revenues first instead of relying on external funding.

  The conference was attended by a broad delegation of national and local politicians, development partners, government officials, CSOs, NCPAG-alumni and international experts, and GIZ was pleased to have made some valuable contributions.

• GIZ Philippines at the Sector Network Governance Asia
  16 May 2012

  GIZ Philippines at the Sector Network Governance Asia

  The first General Meeting of the Sector Network Governance Asia (SNGA) since the merger took place from 23-27 April 2012 in Bangkok, Thailand. The overall theme "Changing Asia – Changing Governance” featured the main trends and challenges for Asia in upcoming years. Over 120 participants comprised of GIZ seconded staff, national advisors, head office staff, development workers and CIM experts came from Thailand, Nepal, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Philippines and Germany.
   
  GIZ Philippines was represented through the participation of the Decentralization Program (DP), Conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management (COSERAM) Program, and the Cities Development Initiative for Asia (CDIA). These programs actively participated in three of the four SNGA Working Groups: Decentralization and Local Governance, Urban Opportunities, and Peace Security and Fragile States, which is now chaired by Dr. Stephanie Schell-Faucon.
  The SNGA Governance Forum provided a platform for GIZ programs and initiatives to present approaches, ideas and instruments from various country contexts with regard to future governance trends and challenges in Asia. Out of 30 submitted proposals, 18 were selected to be presented in parallel sessions. Both DP/COSERAM and CDIA were among those selected.
   
  By mixing all the critical ingredients needed to build and sustain a LGU alliance in a cooking pot, EJ Solis and Sarah Muniz in their iron chef attire were able to illustrate the approach of Inter-Local Cooperation as a means to improve public service delivery, which is a synergy product of DP, COSERAM, EnRD and PSP in the Philippines.
   
  CDIA represented by Rhoda Gregorio, Hajo Junge and Joris van Etten gave a presentation on "Creating Incentives for
  Asia's Urban Future” which focused on how regional capacity development efforts can foster sustainable and inclusive urban development.
   
  In cooperation with the Asian Institute of Technology (Bangkok), the SNGA organized the Governance Academy to provide an academic perspective on various challenges in Asia. The session was opened by distinctive keynote speakers,
  namely GIZ Managing Director Dr. Christoph Beier, former Prime Minister of Thailand Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, and TIME Magazine Asia journalist Mr. Michael Schuman.
  
  Overall, the SNGA provided a good opportunity for GIZ Philippines to present successful program approaches, as well as learn from other countries' experiences through exchange and dialogue.

• News Archive

  News Archive

  Decentralization Program Sets Up Online University

  17 May 2011

  17 May 2011 The Decentralization Program (DP) in partnership with the Local Government Development Foundation (LOGODEF), the Philippine Councilors' League and the West Visayas State University signed the Memorandum of Agreement to implement the Lo...

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  Decentralization Program Sets Up Online University

  17 May 2011
  
  The Decentralization Program (DP) in partnership with the Local Government Development Foundation (LOGODEF), the Philippine Councilors' League and the West Visayas State University signed the Memorandum of Agreement to implement the Local Governance University or LogU.
  
  Also part of the program was the lecture series where distinguished legislators such as former Senator and the Father of the Local Government Code Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Senate Committee Chair on Local Government Sen. Bongbong Marcos and Congress Committee Chair Cong. George Arnaiz discussed their views on decentralization and the amendment of the local government code. The main venue of the lecture was in Iloilo City while other attendees participated via webcast in Vigan, Ilocos Sur and in Zamboanga City.
  

  
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  PDF Decentralization and Local Government Working Group holds a Consultation Workshop

  9 February 2011

  February 8-9, 2011 Tagaytay City, Philippines---In preparation for the first (annual) Philippine Development Forum (PDF) under the Aquino Administration, the Working Group (WG) on Decentralization and Local Government held a Consultation Workshop on 8-9 February 2011. This workshop has been par...

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  PDF Decentralization and Local Government Working Group holds a Consultation Workshop

  February 8-9, 2011
  
  

  Tagaytay City, Philippines---In preparation for the first (annual) Philippine Development Forum (PDF) under the Aquino Administration, the Working Group (WG) on Decentralization and Local Government held a Consultation Workshop on 8-9 February 2011. This workshop has been part of the usual process of the Working Group to organize its key messages to the PDF. This year’s objectives were a) to finalize and adopt the 2011-2012 Work Plan and b) to formulate the Key Message to the PDF scheduled on 26 February 2011 with the Theme of "Implementing President Aquino’s Social Contract to Achieve Inclusive Growth.”
  
  The workshop was well-attended by members from the national government, DILG (Convener), NEDA, DOF, MinDa, local leagues, ULAP, LPP, LCP & LMP as well as development partners World Bank (Co-Convener), ADB, EU, AECID, CIDA & USAID. The German Development Cooperation (GIZ), who has been a member and has been providing technical assistance to the Secretariat since 2007, was represented by its Decentralization Program (DP) Manager Dr. Herwig Mayer.
  
  This year’s PDF format will involve plenary sessions from the Aquino administration’s cabinet clusters namely Economic Development, Human Development and Governance & Security with the Philippine Development Plan as the overall framework. The Secretariat sought the opportunity to convey the WG’s messages in all of the clusters as well as coordinated the assistance provided by all of the development partners. The GIZ extended its support to the Workshop through the contracting of a governance resource person while ADB and World Bank provided resource persons for economics and human development, respectively. In the end, the WG was able to identify and harmonize the key messages for the PDF.
  
  The workshop was facilitated by DP coordinator and Secretariat member EJ Solis and was convened by DILG Undersecretary Austere Panadero and World Bank Country Sector Coordinator Ms. Yan Zang.
  

  
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  GIZ and La Union Provincial Government Hold 2nd Conference on Local Government Financing

  10 November 2010

  November 8 – 10, 2010 San Fernando, La Union The Decentralization Program (DP) of the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), in cooperation with the Province of La Union, convenes the 2ndConference on Local Government Financing in San Fernando, La Union. National and local government off...

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  GIZ and La Union Provincial Government Hold 2nd Conference on Local Government Financing

  November 8 – 10, 2010
  
  

  San Fernando, La Union

  
  

  The Decentralization Program (DP) of the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), in cooperation with the Province of La Union, convenes the 2^ndConference on Local Government Financing in San Fernando, La Union. National and local government officials from across the Philippines, as well as national and international experts come together in this multi-day event to discuss how to improve the fiscal performance of the local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines.
  

  
  

  The capacity of local government units (LGU) to engage in local development depends primarily on their resources available. LGUs in the Philippines do not exhaust their potential to generate revenue. In fact, in absence of reliable collection systems, most LGUs collect only a fraction of their potential revenue (up to 40%). By improving their tax collection systems, LGUs can diversify and increase their revenue and, as a consequence, allocate more resources to local development efforts.
  

  
  

  The conference pursues three general goals. First, it aims to raise awareness for the untapped fiscal potentials in local governance and to illustrate this with good national and international practice. In this context, Prof. Riel Franzsen, Director of the African Tax Institute offers a comparison of fiscal decentralization on Africa and South East Asia. Budi Sitepu from the Indonesian Ministry of Finance underlines the importance of local revenues as a pillar of fiscal decentralization in Indonesia. The internationalinitiative "International Tax Compact”, presented by GIZ Project Manager Roland von Frankenhorst, represents one of the growing international efforts to assist developing countries fight tax evasion and avoidance.
  

  
  

  The second goal is to provide an overview and to discuss the practical benefits of different technical and operational options for LGUs to improve their revenue collection systems. Using IT and tailored software enables LGUs to map their jurisdictions, and to manage and enforce their revenue generation. Since 2006, DP started the implementation of iTAX, a flexible software system that assists the LGUs in the administration of revenues like local levies, real property, water charges, community, and business taxes, among others. In 2007 the Province of Negros Oriental started to implement an integrated tax administration system. A first transfer project was established in July 2008 in the Province of La Union under the supervision of the Governor. The figures are astonishing: from revenues of a little over P71 million in 2008, La Union collected over P132.5 million in 2009 (an 86.42 percent increase). In May 2010, La Union collected more than P133 million, 86.49 percent more than what it has collected by the same month last year. The total RPT gross collection in 2009 had already been reached by May 2010. Today, the program is being rolled out to the provinces of Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Pampanga, Cebu and Leyte.
  

  
  

  Designed to improve and enhance tax collection efficiency, iTAX is a tool for making local tax administration efficient, effective and transparent. Against this background, other topics discussed at the conference include the transition to faster and easier payment systems and the options to enter in partnerships with the private sector in order to improve the public services to the taxpayers.
  

  
  

  The third goal of the conference is to present LGU officials from around the country with a forum to discuss their experiences in revenue generation. The exchange of experiences, as well as the creation of capacity development networks, between LGUs is immensely important for the sustainable improvement of LGUs’ revenue generation once DP withdraws its support by 2012. The open forums throughout the conference provide LGU representatives with an opportunity to deliberate over ways to address the difficulties they face on their ways towards securing more revenue. With more resources at their disposal they enjoy more freedom to perform independently from the central government.
  

  
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  Mix It Up! Sustain an Alliance

  26 September 2011

  26 – 28 September 2011 Negros Occidental Hosts 3rd National Summit on Inter Local Cooperation A total of 54 alliances nation-wide, including 22 NGOs, development partner agencies and the national government agencies are expected to attend the 3rdNational...

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  Mix It Up! Sustain an Alliance

  26 – 28 September 2011
  

  Negros Occidental Hosts 3^rd National Summit on Inter Local Cooperation
  

  A total of 54 alliances nation-wide, including 22 NGOs, development partner agencies and the national government agencies are expected to attend the 3^rdNational Inter Local Cooperation (ILC) Summit on 26 – 28 September 2011 at L’Fisher Hotel, Bacolod City. The summit, which aims to bring together alliances all over the country and provide a venue for sharing and discussing issues and challenges on the ground, with special focus on the financial aspects and arrangement for inter-local cooperation, is a joint collaboration of the European Union, GIZ , Philippine Development Forum, Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

  The summit will highlight the consolidated gains of inter local cooperation, including the documentation of best practices such as the ‘Critical Ingredients in Building and Sustaining Inter-Local Cooperation’ (Cookbook) as well as discussion of critical issues and concerns of alliances. The event is very timely as it attempts to capture the status of inter-local cooperation in the country 20 years after the passage of the Local Government Code in 1991.

  The GIZ, a long-time partner of the province, will also hold a pre-summit workshop on the Critical Ingredients for Newly-Formed Alliances from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on 26 September2011. This is designed especially for LGUs who wish to organize and establish an alliance.
  

  
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  Leyte Registers Increase in Efficiency in Tax Collection Through iTAX

  16 May 2012

  On the latest report of Real Property Tax (RPT) collection for Leyte province, the pilot municipalities where Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) is being implemented showed a huge increase in efficiency in the Real Property Tax (RPT) tax collection. In municipalities of Tabontabon and Ja...

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  Leyte Registers Increase in Efficiency in Tax Collection Through iTAX

  On the latest report of Real Property Tax (RPT) collection for Leyte province, the pilot municipalities where Integrated Taxation Management System (iTAX) is being implemented showed a huge increase in efficiency in the Real Property Tax (RPT) tax collection. In municipalities of Tabontabon and Javier, over a 100% increase was recorded while most iTAX LGUs had up to 50% increase registered. Overall the average increase of RPT collection in Leyte for 2011 was 35%. Initial implementation in 2010 covered 16 municipalities in Leyte and after a year it has been replicated to almost all Leyte municipalities except for two who already have their own systems.

  iTAX is a software that offers LGUs a faster and easier way of performing non-tax and tax transactions and is designed to improve and enhance the tax collection efficiency of LGUs. After computerization, data problems became more visible hence easier to check. Misapplication of schedule of market values and insufficient data on building tax declarations are being addressed to have a more reliable data in the province.

  iTAX is helping the data synchronization and transparency in the assessors, treasurers and planning offices. Through the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) – iTAX integration using GIS, data can now be easily shared through maps.

  Currently the iTAX Leyte team is gearing itself up to become an iTAX Regional Support Center (iRSC) which will be handling and providing support to other iTAX-using LGUs in the region. Since March, the team has been preparing toreplicate iTAX to interested provinces like Biliran and Samar.

  
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  In Commemoration Of Decentralization Efforts In Southeast Asia

  15 June 2011

  15-16 June 2011 From 15-16 June 2011 the Freiburg Southeast Asia Study Group hosted the Conference on Decentralization and Democratization in Southeast Asia the University of Freiburg in Germany. The conference was attended by more than 200 participants bringing together scholars from economics,...

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  In Commemoration Of Decentralization Efforts In Southeast Asia

  15-16 June 2011
  
  From 15-16 June 2011 the Freiburg Southeast Asia Study Group hosted the Conference on Decentralization and Democratization in Southeast Asia the University of Freiburg in Germany. The conference was attended by more than 200 participants bringing together scholars from economics, political science, public administration as well as development practitioners and government officials from Germany, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, India and other Southeast Asian countries.
  
  A special section of the conference was devoted to commemorate 10 years of decentralization in Indonesia. After decades of decentralization across Southeast Asia, it was time to evaluate and to assess decentralization's achievements and shortcomings within economy and political processes as well as for social and cultural discourses. With its "big bang" decentralization program launched in 1991, the Philippines spearheaded the quest for more democratic and more decentralized governance structures. In light of the 20th anniversary of the Local Government Code in the Philippines, the Decentralization Program (DP) contributed and presented a paper to the conference on "Intergovernmental Allocations and Fiscal Autonomy in the Philippines", which was authored by Sarah Jane Muniz, Melf-Jakob Kuehl and Dr. Herwig Mayer.
  
  All in all, the conference provided a good venue for networking with fellow GIZ colleagues from Southeast Asian countries and decentralization scholars from all over the world, and learning about various decentralization efforts and contributions. The Indonesian delegation to the conference, which included high ranking government officials from the Indonesian Ministry of Finance, were particularly interested in DP's fiscal decentralization efforts. Some exchange of experiences between GIZ efforts in the Philippines and Indonesia is further facilitated through the Working Group on Decentralization and Local Governance of the GIZ Sector Network Governance Asia.
  

  
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  GIZ and Provinces of Leyte launch software to ease land use planning and development

  12 April 2012

  More informed decisions on land use, natural resources management and urban management can now be eased through the use of a GIS application software, called Provincial GIS Viewer, to make it easier for local government units to identify, analyze and quantify all land management related data a...

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  GIZ and Provinces of Leyte launch software to ease land use planning and development

  More informed decisions on land use, natural resources management and urban management can now be eased through the use of a GIS application software, called Provincial GIS Viewer, to make it easier for local government units to identify, analyze and quantify all land management related data and information. 

  German Development Cooperation- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the Provinces of Leyte and Southern Leyte will launch the said software, together with its developer, GEOPLAN Cebu Foundation on April 17, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m at the Leyte Park Hotel. 

  The Provincial GIS provides ease in data collection, storage, analysis, manipulation, use and distribution. In 2010, a study conducted by GIZ’s Environmental and Rural Development (EnRD) and Decentralization (DP) Programs revealed that information required in the creation of the Comprehensive Land Use Planning (CLUP), Comprehensive and Development Plan (CDP) and Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP) are not readily available. 

  Usually, obtaining the information required for the CLUP, CDP and PDPFP is tedious effort and often remains the hindrance to the creation and/or updating of these important local development plans that determines their environmental, social and economic development thrusts. 

  The event is expected to open discussion and sharing of perspectives among practitioners and LCEs so they may support the installation of the system into their respective LGUs and offices. End users of the GIS Viewer will be trained the day before the software will be officially launched. 

  Ubo Pakes of the GEOPLAN Cebu Foundation Inc. will discuss the practical uses of the GIS Viewer to the Provincial Governors and Administrators, PPDCs, Provincial GIS Staff, Municipal Mayors, City and Municipal Planners, National Government Agencies and members of the Region 8 GIS Network who are all invited to witness the Provincial GIS Viewer launching.

  
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  GIZ COOKS FLAVORED THE BROTH

  5 March 2012

  After a year of implementation, the Conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management (COSERAM) Program continued its collaborative efforts with the Decentralization Program (DP) on the "knowledge transfer” initiatives to the CARAGA Region. On January 10-11, 2012 there was a "cooking class” in...

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  GIZ COOKS FLAVORED THE BROTH

  After a year of implementation, the Conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management (COSERAM) Program continued its collaborative efforts with the Decentralization Program (DP) on the "knowledge transfer” initiatives to the CARAGA Region. On January 10-11, 2012 there was a "cooking class” in Surigao City using Critical Ingredients on Building and Sustaining Inter-Local Cooperation (aka. Cookbook) published through the DP with inputs from the Environment and Rural Development Program (EnRD) and the Private Sector Promotion Program (PSP) back in 2010. This Cookbook was further complemented with Learning Modules.

  The Hinatuan Passage Development Alliance (HIPADA) in Surigao del Norte is one of the key stakeholders in one of the Activity Clusters of COSERAM and Lanuza Bay Development Alliance (LBDA) in Surigao del Sur is not yet a partner in one of the current Activity Clusters, but has been a partner organization of a development worker of the former German Development Services (DED) until spring 2011 and might be a potential future partner in regard of coastal resource management activities. In order to further strengthen their structures and operations, the said alliances approached COSERAM to support an internal assessment.

  HIPADA and LBDA undertook a Self-Assessment Workshop testing the recently developed Diagnostic Tool by the DP. As a first step in applying the Learning Modules this tool was developed to make LGU alliances evaluate their current status of development and then decide on the next steps for them to sustain their alliance whether through training or non-training interventions. Once they have assessed their needs, the training portion can be customized by selecting appropriate Learning Modules ultimately making it suit to their taste.

  "This Workshop is a nice example how alliances benefit from exchange with other alliances and close cooperation of the different GIZ sectoral programs”, said Dr. Stephanie Schell-Faucon, Principal Advisor of COSERAM. Mr. Walter Alquiza, Mr. EJ Solis and Ms. Sarah Muniz, representing from both programs of COSERAM and DP, jointly assisted the facilitation of the workshop. It was also attended by BMZ guest Ms. Sabine Brickenkamp who is having a field visit to the Philippines.

  At the end of the workshop, HIPADA and LBDA representatives appreciated the new learning they have gathered. More importantly they saw how GIZ is helping them keep the fire burning and continue their successes as an alliance.

   

  
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  Assessing Fiscal Decentralization After 20 Years

  10 February 2012

  The Local Government Code of 1991 is arguably the most sweeping reform in national-local fiscal relations in recent history anywhere in the world. But after twenty years, what have is there to show? What has the Philippines learned? And where will it go given the new challenges in an unce...

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  Assessing Fiscal Decentralization After 20 Years

  
  

  The Local Government Code of 1991 is arguably the most sweeping reform in national-local fiscal relations in recent history anywhere in the world. But after twenty years, what have is there to show? What has the Philippines learned? And where will it go given the new challenges in an uncertain world?

  These questions were discussed in the First Annual Policy Forum, which was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Ortigas Center on 16 January 2012. It was sponsored by the Philippine Center for Economic Development Institute of Public Economics and Regulation (PIPER)[1] in partnership with the GIZ Decentralization Program.

  The annual policy forum brought together selected scholars, policymakers, local chief executives and other stakeholders ensuing lively discussions on key policy issues. The first forum invited four scholars to scan the country’s experience in the past two decades on the following topics: local development and growth; assignment of functions and intergovernmental fiscal transfers; governance and accountability; and international perspective. The speakers in included Dr. Benjamin Diokno, former Budget Secretary and professor at the University of the Philippines School of Economics; Dr. Gilbert Llanto of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies; Dr. Paul Hutchcroft of the Australian National University; Dr. Jan Werner of the Institute of Local Public Finance in Langen, Germany.

  As a response to the increasing dependency of local governments on intergovernmental transfers, experts urge the government to release a list of the best- and worst-performing local governments annually to encourage them to improve own revenue mobilization and service delivery, which is the aim of the 20-year-old Local Government Code.

  
  

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  [1]PIPER is a nonpartisan center for applied research in public economics, regulation, and public policy. Its goal is to conduct high-quality research in the area of public economics and regulation, and to use the research outputs to advance practical public policy advice and recommendations.

  
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  First PIPER Annual Policy Forum (updated 13 Jan 2012)

  13 January 2012

  The PCED Institute of Public Economics and Regulation (PIPER), in partnership with the GIZ Decentralization Program (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), announces the First PIPER Policy Forum with the theme "Fiscal Decentralization after 20 Years: What have...

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  First PIPER Annual Policy Forum (updated 13 Jan 2012)

  
  

  
  

  The PCED Institute of Public Economics and Regulation (PIPER), in partnership with the GIZ Decentralization Program (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), announces the First PIPER Policy Forum with the theme "Fiscal Decentralization after 20 Years: What have we got to show? What have we learned? Where do we go from here?”. The forum will be held on 16 January 2012, 9am – 5pm at the Crowne Plaza Galleria in Ortigas. 

  The one-day forum will feature a review of the successes and pitfalls of decentralization in the last 20 years since the passage of the Local Government Code of 1991. 

  It shall be distinguished by a presentation of evidence-based, analytical assessments of key issues by top scholars. An equally distinguished panel of experts and practitioners will then react to the presentation. Thus guided, the forum participants are expected to have more focus, informed debates and reach wider, firmer consensus on the needed reforms.

  The featured speakers are Dr. Benjamin E. Diokno of UP to provide a 20-year retrospective, Dr. Gilbert Llanto of PIDS to review the assignment of functions and intergovernmental fiscal relations, Dr. Paul Hutchcroft of ANU to discuss governance and accountability issues, and Dr. Jan Werner of the BITS University of Applied Sciences (Germany) to provide an international perspective.

  There will also be a roundtable discussion of specific issues or topics to be hosted by Dr. Andreas Lange of GIZ over lunch. 

  The target forum participants and discussants will include with policymakers, national and local government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, the academe, non-government organizations, and media. 

  The participation in the forum will be free of charge. While most participants will be invited, the organizers welcome limited number of participants from the general public on a first-come, first-served basis.

  As we have now reached the maximum number of participants, we can no longer accommodate any further registrations to this event. 

  
  

  PROGRAM

  Fiscal Decentralization after 20 Years: What have we got to show? What have we learned? Where do we go from here?

  
  

  TIME	ACTIVITIES
  08:00 – 09:00	Registration
  09:00 – 09:30	Opening Remarks ·  Sec. Cayetano W. Paderanga, Jr. * (Director General, NEDA and Chair, PCED Board of Trustees) ·  Dr. Herwig Mayer (Program Manager, Decentralization Program, GIZ)
  09:30 – 10:30	SESSION 1: A 20-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE ·  Speaker: Dr. Benjamin E. Diokno (Professor, UP School of Economics and Former Secretary, DBM) ·  Reactors: Usec. Austere Panadero (Undersecretary, DILG - Local Government) Usec. Jude Esguerra (Undersecretary, NAPC) Dr. Milwida Guevara (CEO, Synergeia Foundation)
  10:30 – 10:45	Coffee Break
  10:45 – 11:45	SESSION 2: ASSIGNMENT OF FUNCTION AND INTERGOVERMENTAL FISCAL RELATIONS ·  Speaker: Dr. Gilbert Llanto (Senior Research Fellow, PIDS and Former Duty Director General, NEDA) ·  Reactors: Hon. Sherwin Gatchalian (Mayor, Valenzuela City) Dr. Roberto de Vera (Professor, School of Economics, UA&P) Dr. Juan Antonio Perez (OIC, Director IV, Bureau of Local Health Development, DOH) ·  Session Moderator: Dr. Agustin L. Arcenas (Assistant Professor, UP School of Economics)
  11:45 – 13:30	Lunch Break with a Roundtable Discussion ·  Moderator: Dr. Andreas Lange (Chief Advisor, Local Governance, GIZ) ·  Conversationalists:  Gov. Jose Ma. Clemente S. Salceda (Governor of Albay) Usec. Mario Relampagos (Undersecretary, DBM - Operations) Atty. Roque Tiu (Board Member, First District of Leyte)
  13:30 – 14:30	SESSION 3: GOVERNANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY ·  Speaker: Dr. Paul Hutchcroft (Professor, Australian National University) ·  Reactors: Ms. Malou Mangahas (Reporter, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism) Dr. Alex Brillantes (Professor, National College of Public Administration and Governance, University of the Philippines) ·  Session Moderator: Dr. Joseph J. Capuno (Associate Professor, UP School of Economics)
  14:30 – 15:30	SESSION 4: INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE ·  Speaker: Dr. Jan Wemer (Professor, BITS Iserlohn, University of Applied Sciences, Germany) ·  Reactors: Dir. Janet B. Abuel (Director IV, DBM - Regional Office I) Dr. Eduardo Gonzalez (Professor, UP Asian Center) Dr. Gaudencio Sosmeña (Founding Executive Director and Chairman, Board of Trustees, LOGODEF) ·  Session Moderator: Dr. Joseph J. Capuno (Associate Professor, UP School of Economics)
  15:30 – 15:45	Coffee Break
  15:45 – 16:00	Closing Remarks ·   Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan (Dean, UP School of Economics and Executive Director, PCED)

  
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	The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) is a federally owned organisation. We work worldwide in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development. Our mandate is to support the German Government in achieving its development objectives.
	The Integrated Taxation Management System(iTAX) is a software that offers LGUs a faster and easier way of performing non-tax and tax transactions such as collections, billings, assessments and reports.
	The Private Sector Promotion (SMEDSEP) Program of the GIZ aims to contribute to the efforts of the Philippine Government to improve the competitiveness of the country.
	The Environment and Rural Development (EnRD) Program of the GIZ aims to improve the livelihood of the poor rural population through better management of land and water resources.
	The JMC Compendium serves as a valuable resource material that can facilitate and harmonize the core operations of LGUs.
	The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), as mandated by the Philippine Constitution, is the country’s independent economic development and planning agency. It is headed by the President as chairman of the NEDA board, with the Secretary of Socio-Economic Planning, concurrently NEDA Director-General, as vice-chairman. Several Cabinet members, the Central Bank Governor, ARMM and ULAP are likewise members of the NEDA Board.
	The Department is primary catalyst for excellence in local governance that nurtures self-reliant, progressive, orderly, safe and globally competitive communities sustained by God-centered and empowered citizenry.
	The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is responsible for formulating the principles and strategies of German development policy.These then form the basis of the cooperation projects and programmes developed together with partner countries and with international organizations.
	Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines

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GIZ DP Offices:

Makati Contact: Toni Tantiado Unit 2A, PDCP Bank Centre Building Corner V.A. Rufino and L.P. Leviste Streets Salcedo Village, Makati City Telephone: +63 2 8136821 Fax: +63 2 8928843
Iloilo Contact: Arce Chua c/o DP Coordinating Office DILG Region Office VI Pepita Aquino Avenue Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City Telefax: +63 33 5095055 Email: info@decentralization.org.ph	Tacloban Contact: Madelyn Aclo iTAX Data Center Leyte Academic Center (LAC) Pawing, Palo, Leyte