Consolacion mayor touts achievements

CEBU, Philippines — Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado, in her recent State of the Town Address, presented her accomplishments in the past three years by narrating her 12-point development agenda.

Her 12-point development agenda are: improvement of basic social services; environmental protection, rehabilitation, and preservation; support for education and upgrading of educational facilities; expansion of health services program; enhancement of economy and poverty alleviation; innovation of agriculture programs, projects, and activities; prioritizing peace and order; promoting heritage and culture; boosting tourism; boosting infrastructure projects; improving urban planning; emphasizing on disaster risk reduction and management; and institutionalizing good governance.

In connection with this dream, she has approved the budget for the MENRO office at ?20 million for the implementation of various programs, projects, and activities.

“Through the proper allocation of the Special Education Fund, we are able to support vital areas such as curriculum implementation, personal services, district and school MOOE, and essential repair and rehabilitation projects for classrooms and facilities,” she said.

She said that the expanded health services program is designed to enhance access to comprehensive healthcare addressing both physical and mental health needs and by integrating a wide range of services --including preventive care, chronic disease management, and mental health support-- these programs aim to reduce health disparities and improve overall community wellness.

For 2024, Consolacion approved a budget of ?9 million for the Agriculture Office’s operations and programs implementation. This budget was 5% higher compared to the budget approved in the previous year.

She said the police force of the town has also pioneered in the implementation of programs that champion peace and order. One of the flagship programs of PNP Consolacion is Oplan Limpyo Lacion which is a collaborative pursuit towards a drug-free municipality as it is a comprehensive anti-criminality campaign focusing on illegal drugs.

“For a progressive community like ours, it is imperative that we continue to honor our past and create a rich cultural tapestry. Amplifying tourism through the promotion of local festivals, crafts, and heritage sites not only boosts the economy but also fosters greater understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures. Our town’s iconic symbol --the Sarok-- is an emblem of our resilience, hard work, and creativity. As a historical and cultural representation of our place, I believe it is necessary to preserve this art and skill. Hence, we have continuously capacitated our beloved artisans from Barangay Tolotolo by letting them join in exhibitions locally and nationally,” the mayor said.

As for her urban planning agenda, Alegado said that the New Cebu International Container Port Project, is a vital infrastructure initiative, and is poised to be a key driver of the national economy.

“As the host local government unit, Consolacion is proud to play a key role in this monumental project. We entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with DOTr for the acquisition of critical land needed for the access roads, ensuring that the project proceeds without delay,” she said.

Another big ticket project is the 235-hectares Seafront City Reclamation Project Spanning which is a key part of the long-term vision to establish Consolacion as the gateway to the north and an economic hub for the region.

Regarding quality public service, Alegado said that her administration believes that this starts from within.

“We often hear that people are an organization’s most valuable asset --and this is not just a cliché, but a truth we must never forget. Without a committed and engaged workforce, even the best strategies and the most groundbreaking ideas can falter,” she said.

In closing, she said in her speech that she confident that, with the people’s continued partnership, the best is yet to come for their town.

“Let’s continue to weave memories and dreams together kay diri sa Consolacion, ang mga damgo ug mga pangandoy tagaan og katumanan. On and on Consolacion!” she ended.

Just last December 15, also her birthday, Alegado led the blessing and inauguration of Consolacion Primary Health Facility II, which will soon be home to expanded health services facilities for Consolacionanons. — (FREEMAN)