Magalang Mayor Suspends Collection of Septage Fees
By Joey Pavia
Magalang Mayor Malu Paras-Lacson appeals to SB members to suspend the collection of septage fees in their town.
Fresh from receiving a new mandate, Mayor Malu Paras-Lacson has suspended the collection of septage fees in Magalang, Pampanga.
On July 10, Lacson issued Executive Order No. 19, temporarily halting the collection. The EO aims to prevent confusion, ensure fairness, and avoid undue pressure on residents, pending action from the Sangguniang Bayan (SB).
Implementation of the EO takes effect immediately.
Earlier, Lacson appealed to SB members to suspend the collection of the fees.
Septage fees are currently included in the water bills of Magalang residents and business owners, as mandated by the Septage Management Ordinance, which stems from a national directive.
“I appeal to this council to consider a temporary suspension of the septage fee collection as we revisit its implementation strategy—ensuring the people are fully informed, infrastructures are in place, and solutions are equitable,” Lacson said during her
privileged speech at the inaugural session of the municipal council on July 3.
“I have general supervision and control over all programs, projects, services, and activities of the municipal government, but that does not include the unilateral suspension of an SB-passed ordinance,” she added.
“Only the SB has the legislative authority to enact, amend, suspend, or repeal such ordinances. And today, I ask you to use that authority in the service of fairness,” Lacson said.
“Let us jointly consider the suspension or strategic phasing of the septage fee collection—not out of political pressure, but out of a sincere desire to give our people breathing space while we address gaps in communication, infrastructure readiness, and public consultation,” the mayor added.
