A BILL seeking to establish a Metropolitan Naga Development Authority (MNDA) has been filed at the House of Representatives.
Assistant minority leader Gabriel Bordado (Camarines) said his proposed “Metropolitan Naga Development Authority Act” will be a “significant step towards fostering sustainable development and addressing regional disparities.”
This proposed legislation aims to establish the MNDA and define its powers, functions, and funding mechanisms. The MNDA Act was originally filed by former Rep. James Jacob.
“The passage of the MNDA Act will be a momentous stride towards a brighter and more inclusive future for the constituents of Naga City and the surrounding municipalities. By institutionalizing this development authority, we aim to bring about positive change and ensure sustainable progress that benefits all,” Bordado said in a statement.
The bill’s primary focus is on the city of Naga and several municipalities in the provinces of Camarines Sur and Masbate.
The areas falling under the jurisdiction of the MNDA include Naga City and the towns of Bombon, Bula, Calabanga, Camaligan, Canaman, Gainza, Libmanan, Magarao, Milaor, Minalabac, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pasacao, Pili, San Fernando, and Siruma in the province of Camarines Sur, and San Pascual in Masbate province.
The proposed powers and functions of the MNDA cover a wide range of vital areas, including but not limited to economic development and planning to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity; infrastructure and transportation to enhance connectivity and accessibility; environmental protection and conservation to preserve ecological balance; health and sanitation, urban/rural protection, and pollution control to safeguard public health and the environment; public safety and disaster preparedness to ensure the safety and well-being of the communities; and provision of other essential services deemed necessary and proper to promote the welfare of the constituents, as determined in consultation with the Metro Naga population.
