Conversion of Victorias to a Component City

The City of Victorias is a political body corporate with perpetual succession.
Powers include suing and being sued, having a seal, acquiring and conveying property, entering contracts, and exercising corporate powers subject to applicable laws.

The city can levy taxes, regulate public spaces, own property, and condemn private property for public use.
It can contract, sue, defend, and implement powers granted by law.

The city and its officials are liable for death, injury, or property damage.
Police jurisdiction extends within city limits and areas related to its water supply.
City courts have concurrent jurisdiction over crimes within these areas.

Positions include mayor, vice mayor, sangguniang panlungsod members, various department heads and officers.
The mayor appoints officials with council concurrence; appointments not acted upon in 15 days are deemed confirmed.

Elected at-large for a 3-year term with qualifications: at least 21 years old, city resident for one year, and qualified voter.
Powers include policy formulation, executive functions, appointments, representation, emergency actions, and budget preparation.
May solemnize marriages, oversee local police, enact development plans, and enforce ordinances.

Elected similarly to the mayor, 3-year term.
Presides over the legislative council, appoints council employees, assumes mayoral office upon vacancy.

Composed of vice mayor, ten regular members, presidents of barangay and youth federations, and three sectoral representatives.
Legislative functions include passing ordinances, levying taxes, approving budgets, regulating business and land use, protecting environment, and providing basic services.
May grant franchises, regulate public utilities, and oversee zoning, disaster response, and public order.

The council adopts rules of procedure within 90 days post-election.
Members must disclose financial and business interests to avoid conflicts.
Sessions are at least weekly and open to the public, with provisions for special and closed sessions.
Quorum required is a majority; penalties exist for unjustified absences.
Mayor can veto ordinances; council can override veto by two-thirds vote.

City ordinances are reviewed by the provincial board; barangay ordinances are reviewed by the city council.
Disapproved ordinances must not be enforced; violation can lead to suspension or dismissal.
Ordinances take effect after posting and publication, typically 10 days from approval.

Disqualified persons include those convicted of moral turpitude crimes, removed from office, dual citizens, fugitives, and insane persons.
Vacancies in mayor or vice mayor are filled by vice mayor or highest-ranking council members respectively.
Vacancies in council are filled by appointments from the same political party with certification.
Temporary mayoral incapacity is handled by the vice mayor or highest-ranking council member with limited powers.

Key officials include secretary to the council, treasurer, assessor, accountant, budget officer, planning coordinator, engineer, health officer, civil registrar, administrator, legal officer, social welfare officer, environment officer, architect, information officer, cooperatives officer, population officer, veterinarian, general services officer, and agriculturist.
Most must be resident citizens with relevant professional qualifications, experience, and civil service eligibility.
Duties range from financial management, planning, health and social services delivery, environmental protection, legal services, and agricultural support, among others.

Existing municipal ordinances remain effective until revised by the city council.
No tax rate increases allowed for five years post-cityhood.
Corporate existence is subject to voter plebiscite.
Current municipal officials and employees retain roles until new elections and appointments.
The city inherits all assets and liabilities of the municipality and remains under provincial jurisdiction.
Term limits of local elective officials are set at three consecutive 3-year terms.
The city remains part of the province’s third congressional district until otherwise legislated.
Provisions comply with the Local Government Code unless inconsistent and repeal conflicting laws.
The Act takes effect upon approval.