QuestionsQuestions (Republic Act No. 6714)
RA 6714 aims to merge, divide, and/or revive barangays in Caloocan City by reducing the number of barangays in its two congressional districts and redefining their boundaries, names, and jurisdictions.
It reduces the first congressional district from seventy (70) barangays to only thirty (30) barangays.
It reduces the second congressional district from one hundred eighteen (118) barangays to only thirty (30) barangays.
It takes effect only if a majority of voters who cast votes approve the changes in a plebiscite, which is to be called in Caloocan City by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
Within thirty (30) days from the approval of the Act by the President.
The old barangays are out of existence, and all their moneys, properties, and obligations are assumed by the new succeeding barangay.
They shall be elected during the regular barangay elections scheduled as provided by law.
The existing barangays continue to function under their regularly elected or appointed officials in accordance with law.
It creates a legal succession: upon the new officials’ assumption, the new barangays assume the former barangays’ moneys, properties, and obligations.
Section 1 enumerates the first congressional district, while Section 2 enumerates the second congressional district, each listing barangays, names, and boundaries.
Barangay Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4 are merged into Barangay Sangandaan Norte. Its boundaries are described using named roads/boundary lines (e.g., Caloocan–Malabon boundary; General San Miguel Street; railroad tracks).
For example, Barangay Bonifacio is created by merging Barangay Nos. 77, 78, 79, 80, and 81.
It provides for merging, dividing, and/or reviving. This is evident in the title and in the provisions such as Sections 1’s handling of phases of Barangay 176 (Bagong Silang) becoming separate barangays (division).
They show that barangays may be subdivided by phases such that certain phases become separate barangays (e.g., Barangay Timog Silangan Bagong Silang), with boundaries set by phase descriptions.
Section 6 provides that the expenses in holding the plebiscite shall be taken out of the Contingent Fund under the current fiscal year appropriations.
Section 7 states it shall take effect upon its approval; however, the specific merger/division/revival takes effect only upon plebiscite approval under Section 5.