An Observation Report: Sangguniang Panlungsod of Iligan City Lanao del Norte

Visit and Observation

My fellow Philosophy of Law students and I had the unique opportu

nity to attend a City Council Session in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, on Dec
ember 12, 2023. This visit aimed to provide us with a firsthand experience of our local government's
operations and the decision-making processes that influence our community. Furthermore, it allowed us to
personally observe and comprehend the basic rules and procedures followed during the City Council sessions,
including the handling of public comments, decision-making, and the overall meeting flow.

This was my inaugural visit to such a session, and I had certain expectations to maximize my understanding and
benefit from this experience, which I believe will be invaluable for my law school journey and future professional
endeavors. These expectations included familiarizing myself with the meeting agenda beforehand to understand the
topics under discussion and the decision-making processes within the council. I also wanted to understand the
expected behavior during the session and any differences in the code of conduct observed by the court or legislative
body. Lastly, I aimed to understand the basic rules and procedures followed during the sessions. Having these
expectations made it easier for me to comprehend and engage in the discussion and meeting.

When I walked into the council chambers, I saw the usual commotion of a
government office.
One could instantly see the formal setup, complete with individual tables
and seats for each city council member. Despite the crowded room, there was an air of order
and decorum, reflecting the seriousness of the proceedings.

The Vice Mayor of Iligan City presided over the meeting, commanding respect and demonstrating leadership. The
meeting commenced promptly at 3:00 PM, with the Vice Mayor outlining the agenda. The main points of discussion
included city ordinances on traffic regulations, management schemes to educate and discipline road users, and the
signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between Iligan City Government, Mindanao State University IIT, and the
Sikyop Agri-Eco Tourism Multi-Purpose Cooperative for biodiversity assessment and conservation at Sitio
Lawlawon, Barangay Rogongon, Iligan City. Each council member had the opportunity to express their views and
concerns, leading to a vibrant and enlightening debate. The decision-making process was democratic, with each
member casting their vote on the issues.

From my observation, the meeting was conducted professionally and efficiently. I was particularly impressed by the
respect shown among council members and their willingness to listen to the public. However, I believe more could
be done to encourage public participation, such as providing more information prior to the meeting on the issues to
be discussed, especially for us students conducting the session observation.

A City Council session visit and observation can significantly impact a law student's perspective in several ways,
such as understanding governance and policy insights. Observing local governance fosters a deeper understanding of
how laws are created, debated, and implemented at the community level. This understanding is valuable for law
students aspiring to work in public policy or local government. Exposure to discussions on local issues and policies
broadens a law student's perspective, offering insights into the complexities of policy-making and helping students
appreciate the multifaceted nature of legal challenges.

Attending a City Council Session can provide valuable insights into local government workings and the democratic
process, which are key components of justice. However, it's important to remember that these sessions are just one
part of a much larger justice system. The overall session promotes transparency, as City Council Sessions are public
meetings where decisions are made openly. This transparency is a fundamental aspect of justice, as it allows citizens
to see and understand how decisions are made. During these sessions, council members enforce local laws and
regulations, crucial for maintaining order and justice in the community.

In conclusion, my visit to the City Council Session was an enlightening experience. It gave me a deeper
understanding of local government's inner workings and the importance of public participation in decision-making. I
eagerly anticipate attending future meetings to further deepen my understanding.