RAMON, ISABELA —The local government of Ramon, Isabela, demonstrated its commitment to enhancing local governance through the inauguration of two significant infrastructure projects last July 5, 2024. Funded under the FY 2023 Seal of Good Local Governance Incentive Fund (SGLG-IF) and the FY 2023 Financial Assistance to Local Government Units (FALGU), these projects highlight the LGU's dedication to sustainable development and improved public service. The event was graced by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 2 Regional Director Agnes A. De Leon, DILG Isabela Provincial Director Corazon D. Toribio, Regional and Provincial Project Development and Management Unit (PDMU) personnel, Mayor Jesus D. Laddaran, MLGOO Ijon Z. Cristobal, and other local elective officials and stakeholders.
The ceremony commenced with the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the solar streetlights project procured through the FY 2023 SGLG-IF in Barangay Nagbacalan. This project, comprising 50 solar streetlights covering a 1-kilometer stretch of road, is a significant step towards enhancing safety, peace, and order within the community. With each light boasting a capacity of 500 watts, the initiative is expected to benefit 3,873 residents by ensuring well-lit streets and promoting a safer environment.
RD De Leon commended the quality of the completed projects, noting that they reflect the LGU's adherence to standards and guidelines. "These projects are a testament to the LGU's commitment to excellence," she said, pledging her continued support and the adoption of best practices from her extensive experience in the DILG.
PD Toribio provided a brief background on the SGLG, praising the LGU for its exemplary implementation of the fund and the provision of a ₱200,000 counterpart for the project. She emphasized that the successful completion of the project is a reward that surpasses the recognition brought by the SGLG itself. PD Toribio also urged LGUs such as Ramon to continue to give premium to the funds entrusted to them, ensuring that every peso is spent wisely for the benefit of the constituents.
Mayor Laddaran expressed his gratitude to the DILG for their unwavering support. He highlighted the challenges faced by the municipality, including drought and economic setbacks, and lauded the resilience of the community in continuing to pursue development projects despite these hurdles. "The LGU has been badly affected by drought and also suffered in its local economy, but we were able to continue to push through," Mayor Laddaran stated.
Nagbacalan Punong Barangay Celso Cabuyadao shared how the installation of solar streetlights has positively impacted their community noting that the improved lighting has significantly enhanced crime prevention efforts in the area.
The ceremony also featured the completed Construction of Farm-to-Market Road in Barangay Oscariz, which spans 365 meters along the Diversion Road. Funded under the FY 2023 FALGU, this project is set to benefit 3,118 residents by providing better access for farmers to transport their produce, thus boosting the local economy.
IO Louella Marie T. Pader
