IMPLEMENTING PARTNER: Ecolink Philippines
YEAR(S): 2011 – 2012
THEME(S): Local Governance
GRANT AMOUNT: $39,500
The main issue that this project addressed was the obvious weak levels of LGU accountability in the procurement, use and maintenance of government vehicles nationwide. One of the underlying factors to this problem was the meek policy framework covering the issue of LGU accountability in vehicle management. The DILG does not have comprehensive policy reiterating LGU compliance to laws pertaining to government vehicles. Having weak policy measures contribute to violations the use if tickets/travel order, misuse of vehicles, to name a few. Part of this concern is the Office of the Ombudsman’s Oplan Red Plate that lacked a clear setup of tools and techniques for CSO involvement in monitoring LGU compliance to red plate laws.
Therefore, the goal of this project was to enhance LGU accountability in vehicle procurement, use and maintenance nationwide through policy development, citizen-driven monitoring mechanism, capability-building and information advocacy. The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the EcoLink Philippines, with the support from the Makati Business Club – Coalition Against Corruption and the Southeast Asian Institute of Local Governance through the funding support of the Partnership for Transparency Fund have come up with the Government Drivers Manual to promote accountability among government-owned vehicle drivers towards their passengers and the vehicle. The Government Driver’s Manual is now the official guide in dealing with their daily routine and official travels.
