Republic of the Philippines

Department of the Interior and Local Government

Region 13 (Caraga)

DILG LEGAL OPINION NO. 2018-17

October 8, 2018 tf
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Lanuza, Surigao Del Sur

Operations Officer
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Dear Ms. Ruaza:

This is in reference to your Letter, dated September 10,~\1fs-a"':VTs

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conduct of Purok Election in Purok 2, Barangay Zone 2, Lanuza, Surigao Del Sur.

As an appreciation, the PUiOk system empirically portrayed relevance in

facilitating participatory governance, efficient delivery of services to the grassroots level,
disaster and risk reduction brought about by natural hazards and counter-measures
against criminal elements. Notwithstanding, the Purok, as an entity, is not categorically
included in the provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991. It cannot, as a
consequence, be considered as the smallest local government unit next to the Barangay.

The undersigned, premised thereto, hereby opines that the operational structure
of the Purok relative to the election of its leaders shall be governed by either of the
following;

1. A duly enacted Ordinance which acknowledges and/or institutionalizes their

organizational existence; or
2. In its absence, the internal rules of procedure/by-laws of the respective Purok
organizations.

As a final note, the Barangay local government, in the absence of an Ordinance,

cannot interfere with the Purok's internal affairs.

We hope to have guided you accordingly. This opiruon is rendered without

prejudice to any contrary opinion of competent higher authorities and the courts.

Very truly yours,

Cc: ARLEEN ANN R. SANCHEZ

Provincial Director
DILG·Agusan Del Sur