ILOILO CITY — The Sangguniang Panlungsod has launched an investigation into the widespread non-compliance of barangays and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) councils in submitting mandatory budgetary documents and annual development plans. 

The probe, which will be conducted in aid of legislation, was prompted by reports that dozens of barangays have failed to file financial reports for years, resulting in stalled projects and delayed services.

During Thursday’s regular session, Majority Floor Leader Councilor Rex Marcus Sarabia delivered a privilege speech titled “The Ugly Truth about the Barangay-SK Budgetary Crisis,” where he underscored the gravity of the issue. “We cannot allow this chronic failure to continue.

The lack of compliance undermines governance and deprives constituents of timely programs and essential services,” Sarabia said.

Records from the Office of the City Accountant revealed that some barangays have not submitted financial reports since 2019, with 56 barangays failing to comply in 2025 alone. This has forced several barangays to operate on re-enacted budgets for up to three years, freezing honoraria and stalling community projects.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has previously cited negligence and lack of accountability as reasons for the lapses. City officials now describe the situation as a chronic governance breakdown that requires urgent legislative intervention.

The council’s resolution seeks to hold barangay and SK officials accountable and to establish stricter measures ensuring timely submission of financial documents. The investigation is expected to shed light on systemic issues and pave the way for reforms that will strengthen transparency and fiscal responsibility at the grassroots level.

This probe highlights the growing concern over governance gaps in local communities, with city leaders stressing that compliance with budgetary requirements is not optional but a fundamental duty to constituents.