Aguilar assures Las Piñas residents of continued progress

Outgoing Las Piñas City Mayor Vergel "Nene" Aguilar expressed his gratitude yesterday to thousands of residents who made the national and local elections peaceful and successful in the city.

At the same time, Aguilar expressed optimism that various programs and projects of his administration will be pursued by the newly elected officials, led by his wife and incoming Mayor Imelda Aguilar.

"This is a clear signal that the people of Las Piñas has confidence in my administration," he said. "The overwhelming votes (98 percent) garnered by Mrs. Aguilar and the landslide win by the administration candidates have given them the fresh mandate to push for more programs and projects to benefit more residents."

Aguilar, who served nine years as public servant, said the people of Las Piñas supported the candidacy of his wife because they want the continuity of programs and benefits like free hospitalization, livelihood training and housing that have helped uplift their social and living conditions.

He likewise congratulated the people of Las Piñas for supporting President Arroyo even as he appealed to others to be calm, seek redress in court and exert all legal means to settle electoral protests.

Aguilar emphasized that street protest will further hurt the country’s economy.

He assured city residents that the upliftment and improvement of living conditions of the people will be the priority of newly elected officials.

During his nine years as local chief executive, Aguilar brought Las Piñas to the world when the city won the United Nations Environment award as the cleanest and greenest city.

Las Piñas is a consistent awardee as the cleanest and greenest city in Metro Manila.

Aguilar’s administration likewise constructed schools and classrooms and day care centers to provide the necessary basic education to children and a city college to poor but deserving students.

Roads and housing projects were also implemented.

"These programs and projects were made possible due to the confidence and support of the people of Las Piñas," Aguilar said. " I would like to thank the people of Las Piñas for their valuable support during my nine years as public servant," he said.