A Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) is a symbol of the legislative strength of a city. It is where local legislations are created for the welfare and well-being of its people.
In Davao City, it was in 1993 when former city mayor Rodrigo Duterte approved an ordinance authorizing him to sign a loan agreement between the city government of Davao and the Philippine National Bank (PNB) in the amount of P150 million that funded the construction of a new SP building.
The city has seen its completion in 1995.
It is in this very session hall Councilors produced quality legislation related to administrative, social, economic, and environmental governance for Davao City.
Twenty-nine years after, the session hall underwent renovation. It is now sporting a new look, improved amenities, and new equipment.
The Davao media have first dib on the fresh look of the newly-renovated session hall and the improved SP building through a media tour led by Vice Mayor Melchor Quitain Jr. on Tuesday.
I love how its new design is incorporated and inspired by the 11 tribes of Davao City, the Ata, Maguindanaon, Matigsalug, Bagobo Klata, Maranao, Obo Manuvu, Bagobo-Tagabawa, Tausug, Sama, Iranun and Kagan.
The new session hall is complete with a brand new LED wall, sound system, swivel chairs of the Vice Mayor and City Councilors, air conditioning units, SP logo UV printed, and 117-piece audience chairs.
The entrance of the session hall displays a large painting by local artist Alfred Galvez.
Other amenities at SP are also undergoing renovation. Changes can be seen as soon as you enter the lobby.
The renovation covered from floor to ceiling. A large ceiling fan, which was donated by 3 Amigo International Development Corporation, will be installed in the lobby.
The changes made the building more energy-efficient, improved its accessibility, and enhanced the experience of the clientele.
The city always has a big heart for mothers thus the provision of the nursing and lactating room for mothers is adequately provided with the necessary equipment that includes a lavatory for hand washing, cooling facilities for storing breast milk, electrical outlets for breast pumps, small table, and separate cubicles with comfortable seats.
Today, a much improved Gallery of Legislators is available for viewing, which was made possible through the initiative of Quitain and supported by the Office of Congressman Vincent Garcia of the second district, who provided pictures of past city officials.
The third floor where the old city library was previously located and now relocated to its new building along C. Bangoy Street, was also overhauled to include a new conference room for the members of the City Council and VIPs, a Musalla/prayer room, storage rooms, City Information and Technology Center (CITC) and SP server rooms, pantry with storage, conference console room, utility room, and comfort rooms.
The restoration of the SP building not only exemplifies the city’s dedication to progress and its commitment to effective governance but has also leveled up its functionality while preserving its architectural and cultural value for future generations.
