Senatorial candidate and Makati Mayor Abby Binay emphasized the need for pragmatic, well-funded legislation Monday, noting that many national laws fail during implementation due to lack of foresight and financial support.
Speaking before the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce Inc., Binay reaffirmed her commitment to being the “People’s Voice in the Senate” by ensuring laws are not only well-intentioned but also practical and sustainable.
“There’s often a disconnect when senators craft legislation without consulting the grassroots,” Binay said.
She cited mandates requiring local government units to shoulder financial assistance programs without considering their fiscal capacity, resulting in policies that are difficult to implement.
Binay stressed the importance of having lawmakers with local governance experience to ensure realistic and implementable policies.
“It is crucial to have someone coming from a local perspective. We have laws that work really well on paper, but implementation-wise, it’s not happening. For example, in Makati, when we pass an ordinance giving benefits, we make sure that there is money, it is sustainable,” she said.
She pointed out how some national policies are passed without securing funding first, putting an unnecessary burden on LGUs.
“So, that’s what I mean by being the voice of reason; being the voice that says ‘that’s doable, that’s not doable‘,” Binay said. “You think it’s common sense, but I realize that common sense is not very common,” she added.
Mayor Binay reiterated her commitment to bringing practical, implementable solutions to the Senate, ensuring that legislation truly serves the people.
