GENERAL SANTOS CITY — National government agencies will soon be required to closely coordinate with the city government before implementing nationally funded projects, as the City Council moves to institutionalize stronger oversight and information-sharing on major developments within the city.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod is set to approve on third and final reading an ordinance mandating all national government agencies, offices, and government-owned and -controlled corporations to coordinate with the local government unit (LGU) during the planning and implementation of projects in General Santos City.

City Councilor Franklin Gacal Jr., the principal author of the proposed measure, said the ordinance aims to ensure transparency, alignment, and timely coordination between national agencies and the city government. He emphasized that the LGU must be formally informed in advance of any project to be carried out within its jurisdiction.

“The purpose is to ensure coordination between the national government and the LGU on projects that will be implemented in the city. The city government must be informed beforehand of projects to be implemented,” Gacal said.

The proposed ordinance comes amid growing concerns among city lawmakers over nationally funded projects that proceed with limited consultation or unclear reporting, particularly the long-delayed Mabuhay Underpass Project along the Digos–Makar Road.

Members of the City Council have repeatedly raised questions about the project’s status, progress, and use of funds, citing the lack of clear and consistent updates. The multimillion-peso underpass project, implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), began in September 2022 and was originally scheduled for completion in October 2024. To date, the DPWH has yet to announce a revised completion timeline.

Gacal said the ordinance seeks to prevent similar situations by requiring early coordination, proper disclosure, and regular communication between national implementing agencies and the city government. City officials believe this will allow the LGU to better anticipate project impacts, address community concerns, and ensure alignment with local development priorities.

Once approved, the ordinance is expected to strengthen the city’s role in monitoring and coordinating large-scale infrastructure and development projects, while reinforcing accountability in the implementation of nationally funded initiatives within General Santos City.