SIMPLE Lessons Learned and Success Factors
Political Commitment As in every undertaking involving political actors, the commitment of those in charge is crucial. Two main lessons can be learned from SIMPLE. First, the integration of the Sangguniang members, both at the provincial and municipal level, lays the ground for commitment across political terms. Land always has an economic dimension where interests can collide. Even more, it is crucial to get the buy in of decision-makers from both the executive and legislative to ensure that land use plans are enforced continuously. Second, participation of communities in the planning process helps policy makers to connect with voters. Local Chief Executives can clearly increase their voter acceptance if priority projects are based on planning documents rather than on individual preferences by the leader. Important in this context is, however, to include all communities and not only those perceived to be politically supportive.
Amortization of Investments Although the initial costs are quite high for some 4th or 5th class municipalities, the prospects for growth and long-term sustainability will quickly amortize the investment. In places where SIMPLE was adopted, there has been a higher potential for these communities to attract external funds. Important in this regard is realistic planning to signal readiness to outside funders. If this is combined with the introduction of revenue-generating measures, such as computerization of real property tax or business permit collections using iTax or other available systems in the market, local governments will tremendously increase their revenue within three years.
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