Opinion on the Procedure of the Review by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Reclassification Ordinances of Component Cities and Municipalities under Sections 20 and 56 of the Local Government Code of 1991

BAGONG PILIPINAS Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT DILG-NAPOLCOM Center, EDSA cor. Quezon Avenue, West Triangle, Quezon City MAR 05 2026 ie(3 OPINION NO, _24_ HON. DENNIS G. PINEDA Vice Governor Province of Pampanga Provincial Capitol City of San Fernando, Pampanga SUBJECT: Opinion on the Procedure of the review by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Reclassification Ordinances of Component Cities and Municipalities under Sections 20 and 56 of the Local Government Code of 1991 Dear Vice Governor Pineda: This refers to your letter dated 4 March 2026 requesting guidance on the proper procedure to be observed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in the review of Reclassification Ordinances enacted by component cities and municipalities, particularly in situations where the ordinance transmitted for review appears to lack the certifications and supporting documents required under applicable laws and regulations. After due consideration, we respectfully submit the following opinion. Under Section 20 of the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act No. 7160), cities and municipalities are authorized to reclassify agricultural lands for non- agricultural uses subject to the limitations and conditions prescribed therein, including compliance with the maximum allowable area for reclassification and the requirements provided under existing laws, rules, and regulations. In practice, ordinances effecting land reclassification are accompanied by supporting certifications and technical documents issued by the appropriate national government agencies to demonstrate compliance with statutory requirements. Meanwhile, Section 56 of the same Code provides that ordinances enacted by the Sangguniang Bayan or Sangguniang Panlungsod of component local government units shall be reviewed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to determine whether such ordinances are within the powers granted to the local legislative body concerned and consistent with existing laws and regulations. The review authority of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is therefore limited to the determination of legality and conformity with law, and does not extend to substituting its judgment for that of the originating Sanggunian on matters of local policy. With respect to the first query, where an ordinance transmitted for review appears to lack the certifications or supporting documents required by law or implementing “Matino, Mahusay at Maaasahan” Trunkline No. (02) 8876 3454 S. 2020