Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 444)
The main purpose of Executive Order No. 444 is to direct the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to conduct a strategic review on the continuing decentralization and devolution of the services and functions of the national government to local government units (LGUs) in support of the rationalization program of functions and agencies of the Executive Branch.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is assigned to conduct the strategic review.
EO No. 444 supports the rationalization policy of the National Government as provided for under Executive Order No. 366 dated October 4, 2004.
The objectives include reviewing the continuing decentralization and devolution to LGUs, identifying duplicated or overlapping functions that could be devolved or decentralized, determining the extent of devolution including transfer of powers, assets, resources and personnel to LGUs, and submitting recommendations for policy and administrative actions to implement the findings.
Section 3(h) of the Local Government Code of 1991 is cited to support the continuing mechanism to enhance local autonomy through legislative enabling acts and administrative and organizational reforms.
LGUs are described as the frontline agencies of government mandated to deliver basic services to the people and serve as the National Government's main partner and implementing arm of its productivity and development programs.
Duties include calling upon all national and local agencies for support, conducting forums and consultations, sponsoring policy studies and research, initiating partnerships with private and donor entities, conducting public information campaigns, submitting recommendations and reports to the President, and performing other functions as directed by the President.
Yes, the DILG may engage the services of individuals and institutional experts and specialists from both national and local agencies and bodies as resource persons.
The budget needed shall be taken from available funds of the DILG. Additionally, other sources such as grants, donations, and technical assistance from donor agencies and public or private entities may be tapped, subject to regular auditing guidelines.
All inconsistent orders, rules, regulations, and issuances or parts thereof are repealed or modified accordingly by Section 5 (Repealing Clause) of EO No. 444.