ILOILO – To bridge the gap between legal services and community needs, the Liga ng mga Barangay (LnB) – Iloilo Chapter, in collaboration with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) – Iloilo Chapter and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Iloilo Province, launched the “Barangay Aid on Wheels” initiative.
Launched at Casa Real de Iloilo on September 6, “Barangay Aid on Wheels” aims to assist barangay officials in addressing legal challenges within their jurisdictions.
The program was inaugurated in the presence of LnB-Iloilo Chapter president and ex-officio Provincial Board member Amalia Victoria Debuque, along with key partners from the IBP-Iloilo headed by Atty. Hiarion Firmeza Jr., and the DILG led by Provincial Director Carmelo Orbista.
Iloilo provincial government officials also supported the event.
Debuque noted that since her assumption as LnB- Iloilo Provincial Federation president seven months ago, numerous barangay captains have approached her for advice and legal assistance on various matters, including conflicts like the locking of barangay halls by former officials.
“Our collaboration goes beyond offering legal advice. It aims to strengthen the governance capacity of our barangay officials. With guidance from the IBP, this program will enhance their legal knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions, uphold the rule of law, and advocate for social justice,” said Debuque.
The “Barangay Aid on Wheels” program plans to tour selected barangays with a legal team comprising members from the LnB, IBP-Iloilo, and DILG to offer free legal services. It aims to organize community legal consultations, facilitate access to legal services, promote community empowerment, enhance legal literacy, and support ongoing legal assistance efforts.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., represented by Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, expressed gratitude for the initiative: “Your commitment to serving our communities and improving the lives of our constituents is remarkable. This initiative is a testament to your dedication and hard work and reflects the spirit of unity in service.”
During the launch, Debuque and Firmeza signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize their roles and the objectives of the program, emphasizing its goal to provide accessible legal consultations across all municipalities and Passi City./PN
