Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9408)
The official title is the "Charter of the City of Mati" enacted under Republic Act No. 9408.
The territorial jurisdiction of the City of Mati shall be within the present metes and bounds of the Municipality of Mati as it existed prior to conversion into a city, subject to resolution of any boundary disputes.
The City has continuous succession in its name; can sue and be sued; use a corporate seal; acquire and convey real or personal property; enter into contracts; and exercise other powers granted to corporations subject to limitations.
The elective officials include the City Mayor, City Vice Mayor, and members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (city council).
Must be at least 21 years old, a resident of the City for at least one year prior to election, and a qualified voter therein.
Both hold office for a term of three years unless sooner removed.
The City Mayor may veto any ordinance on grounds that it is ultra vires or prejudicial to public welfare and may veto particular items in appropriation ordinances; the Sangguniang Panlungsod may override the veto by a two-thirds vote.
If the City Mayor does not act within ten (10) days, the ordinance is deemed approved as if he signed it.
Permanent vacancies are filled by appointment by the provincial governor from nominees of the same political party as the former member, or by the City Mayor in case the former was independent or sectoral representative.
The City shall promote health, safety, balanced ecology, economic prosperity, social justice, peace and order, and preserve the comfort and convenience of inhabitants within its territorial jurisdiction.