Historical Context and Language of Ordinances
- Since 1947 to 2015, Quezon City has enacted over 13,000 ordinances.
- Almost all ordinances have been written in English except one.
- This linguistic choice impacts the accessibility and understanding of laws by the general population.
Purpose and Rationale of the Ordinance
- The ordinance aims to promote the use and understanding of the Filipino language in local legislation.
- Translating key ordinances into Filipino serves to uphold and propagate the national language.
- It ensures constituents comprehend laws affecting their lives better.
Mandate for Translation Service
- The Legal Services Group under the Office of the Secretary of the Sangguniang Panlungsod is tasked to translate selected ordinances into Filipino.
- Translations occur during the second reading period of proposed ordinances.
- Translations are done upon request by the Vice Mayor, acting presiding officer, or primary author of an ordinance.
Submission and Approval of Translations
- Translated Filipino versions are submitted to the City Mayor for signature alongside original English versions.
- If simultaneous signing is unfeasible, Filipino translations must be submitted within 30 days post-English ordinance signing.
Publication of Translated Ordinances
- Filipino translations are published together with English versions only upon request of the Vice Mayor or ordinance author(s).
Promotion and Dissemination
- During the Linggo ng Wika (Language Week), the City intensifies dissemination campaigns.
- It employs technology and communication tools to promote ordinances translated into Filipino.
Encouragement of Filipino Language Ordinances
- The ordinance encourages city council members to propose ordinances in Filipino.
- It does not hinder the filing of Filipino-language legislation but supports it.
Capacity Building for Translators
- Legal Services Group members will undergo training recommended by the Sangguniang Panlungsod Secretary.
- Training aims to develop proficiency in accurate translation from English to Filipino.
Budgetary Allocation
- Adequate funds for implementing the ordinance shall be allocated annually in the Office of the Secretary of the Sangguniang Panlungsod's budget.
Severability Clause
- If any provision or section is declared unconstitutional, this will not affect the rest of the ordinance's provisions.
Repealing Clause
- Existing ordinances, resolutions, executive orders, policies, or regulations inconsistent with this ordinance are repealed or amended accordingly.
Effectivity
- The ordinance takes effect 15 days after its publication in a newspaper with general circulation.