QuestionsQuestions (PROCLAMATION NO. 1264)
Sections 452 and 453 of the LGC of 1991 govern the classification and the President’s declaration of a city as highly-urbanized.
A city must have a minimum population of 200,000 inhabitants as certified by the National Statistics Office and a latest income of at least ₱50,000,000 based on 1991 constant prices as certified by the City Treasurer.
Within 30 days after the city meets the requirements, the President shall declare it as highly-urbanized upon proper application.
A resolution of the Sangguniang Panglungsod adopted by a majority of all its members (in a meeting duly called), approved/endorsed by the city mayor, and accompanied by certifications as to income and population.
The National Statistics Office certifies the city’s population; the City Treasurer certifies the city’s income based on 1991 constant prices.
Within 30 days from receipt of the resolution, after verifying the requirements, the President declares the city as highly-urbanized.
Within 120 days from the President’s declaration (or as specified in the declaration), the COMELEC conducts the plebiscite.
The COMELEC.
It takes effect only upon ratification in a plebiscite by qualified voters in the city, as provided in Section 453 of the LGC.
The conversion is not fully effective until voters ratify the proclamation in a plebiscite held by COMELEC.
It introduces a condition precedent—ratification in a plebiscite is required before the proclamation becomes effective.
Because COMELEC must conduct a comprehensive information campaign with assistance from national/local government officials, media, NGOs, and other interested parties to inform the electorate before the plebiscite.
The Sangguniang Panglungsod of Puerto Princesa adopted Resolution No. 614-2007 dated January 15, 2007 requesting the President to declare the city highly-urbanized.
It must be adopted in a duly called meeting for that purpose and must be approved/endorsed by the city mayor, and accompanied by income and population certifications.
It provides the rationale for governmental support of local government efforts to become self-reliant and effective partners in achieving national goals.
The President (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) signs the proclamation, and the Executive Secretary (Eduardo R. Ermita) signs “By the President,” reflecting administrative attestation/issuance under the President’s authority.
No. The proclamation takes effect only upon ratification in a plebiscite by qualified voters, as required by Section 453 and reiterated in the proclamation.
City submits the required resolution and certifications to the Office of the President; the President verifies and declares within 30 days; then COMELEC conducts the plebiscite within 120 days from the declaration (or as specified).