CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – Three Local Access Road Projects in the Municipality of Malitbog were officially presented in a groundbreaking ceremony of Local Government Support Fund – Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) at a covered court in Barangay Kiabo, Malitbog, Bukidnon, September 23, 2021.
Barangays Kiabo, San Luis, and Siloo are among the 71 SBDP 2021 recipient barangays in Bukidnon which will each receive Php20 million. The LGDF-SBDP funding will be used to construct a 1.3-kilometer road from Brgy Kiabo proper to Liropan cave and the Sitio Larapan junction; a 1.3-kilometer road from Sitio Logdeck-Uyunan junction to Sitio Victory; and a 1.3-kilometer road from Sitio Bayawa junction to Sitio Alangilan.
The Barangay beneficiaries recalled and applauded the Army’s efforts in conducting Community Support Operations (CSP) in their areas over the years, which paved the way for the road projects’ eventual realization. They also commended the national government and the local administration through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and the Local government for bringing about the construction of road projects that are essentially needed by the residents; as these road projects would undoubtedly help them in making their farm outputs more accessible to the market, thus improving their livelihoods and the economic stability of their barangays.
Hon. Osmundo N Dela Rosa, Municipal Mayor, said, “First and foremost, if we want to thrive in the countryside, we need decent roads. My people are mostly farmers, so having paved roads is crucial because it helps them to access their farm outputs. And I credit the implementation of Executive Order No. 70, also known as the Whole of Nation Approach, for the completion of these road projects. Our government is now truly committed to fulfilling its mandate of providing genuine service to its citizens, and let us all work together to convince the communist terrorist groups that they are mistaken about the government. I hope they would have the eyes and heart to see that our government is eager to assist them in transforming their current condition and lives.”
Meanwhile, PD Carmelo Enrique B. Libot, Provincial Director of DILG Bukindon, relayed his message, “The national government is true and dedicated on its mandate to deliver services to the people through the implementation of Whole of Nation Approach and ensures to conceptualize to finally address insurgency by bringing sustainable solutions and basic services to communities in need. We are privileged that the province of Bukidnon, as the second highest communist-terrorists-cleared barangays, was included as beneficiaries of the LGSF-SBDP. I strongly believe that the projects serve the important part for the peace and development of the conflict-affected and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. It is my fervent hope that this will allow the target beneficiaries to overcome their challenges and will open more doors for them to progress and boost their economic livelihood. When this project is completed, we will be one step closer to fulfilling the economic development. I for one, is looking forward to seeing the communities thrive and prosper through the years. Mag hangyo mi sa tanan. Tabangan nato ang pagbantay sa atong proyekto.”
Furthermore, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer 58IB, is pleased about the implementation of the stated road projects, believing that it will have a significant impact on the unit’s overall mission accomplishment. “Insurgency is about governance, who governs best, wins the war. The commitment of the local government units, national and local government agencies and other stakeholders is crucial in the intensification of sustaining this program. And I am positive this project will be a success, with the help and cooperation from the residents.”
The ceremony was graced by Hon. Osmundo N Dela Rosa, Municipal Mayor, Hon. Cindy E Aritrangco, Vice Mayor, Malitbog, DILG representative, Ms Glenda Hope A Beley LGOO of Bukidnon, Datu Dominador S Sambalon, Municipal IPMR, Mr Raymond Lopez, NICA Assistant Provincial Director, Ms Ruby Balistoy, PIA Manager, Police Major Jaemar M Paguidopon, Malitbog MPS, and Major Hermilando T Corvera Jr., 58IB Executive Officer. The Barangay Chairmen and some constituents of three beneficiary barangays were also present. Hon. German C Sul-aron of Brgy Kiabo, Hon. Ale R Bandialan of Brgy San Luis, and Hon. Pepito Dominguez of Brgy Siloo.
