Law Summary

Introduction

Presidential Decree No. 557, signed by President Ferdinand E. Marcos on September 21, 1974, establishes the transition of all barrios in the Philippines to be recognized as barangays. This decree serves to encourage local governance and community participation.

Declaration of Barrios as Barangays

• Legal Principle: All existing barrios, and any future barrios created, are officially designated as barangays.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Barrio": A term of foreign origin previously used to describe local communities.
  • "Barangay": The new designation for barrios as per the decree.
• Important Requirements/Procedures:
  • All references to "barrio" in existing laws are to be interpreted as "barangay".
  • In chartered cities, where no barrios exist, established barangays remain unchanged.
• Cross-References: This section overrides any existing laws that may conflict with this declaration.

Adoption of the Barangay Charter

• Legal Principle: The Revised Barrio Charter (Republic Act No. 3590) is adopted as the governing charter for barangays.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Revised Barrio Charter": The legal framework governing the operation of barangays.
• Important Requirements/Procedures:
  • This charter guides the governance and administrative functions of barangays going forward.

Powers and Responsibilities

• Legal Principle: The powers and rights previously held by barrio assemblies and officials are now conferred to barangay assemblies and officials.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Barangay Assembly": The local governing body for barangays.
  • "Barangay Council": The elected governing council within the barangay.
• Important Requirements/Procedures:
  • All duties and responsibilities of barrio assemblies and councils are now to be executed by their barangay counterparts.

Change in Official Titles

• Legal Principle: The titles of barrio officials are updated to reflect the barangay designation.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Barangay Captain": The head official of the barangay.
  • "Barangay Councilman": An elected member of the barangay council.
  • "Barangay Secretary" and "Barangay Treasurer": Other official roles within the barangay governance structure.
• Important Requirements/Procedures:
  • Former barrio officials are to adopt these new titles.

Effectivity

• Legal Principle: The decree takes effect immediately upon approval.
• Important Requirements/Procedures:
  • No additional waiting period is stated; enforcement is instantaneous from the date of signing.

Key Takeaways

• All barrios are redefined as barangays, promoting local governance.
• The Revised Barrio Charter becomes the definitive legal framework for barangays.
• Powers and responsibilities are transferred from barrio to barangay officials.
• Official titles for local leaders have been updated to reflect this change.
• The decree is effective immediately upon signing, ensuring prompt implementation.