Palawan unveils ₱1.4 billion infra dev’t for 2024

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The Palawan provincial administration unveiled Friday an infrastructure development blueprint for 2024, which includes a ₱1.4-billion road concreting project, a ₱300-million flood control initiative, and a ₱300-million Disaster Forward Operating Base project.

Engr. Aireen C. Laguisma, officer-in-charge of the Provincial Engineering Office, presented the detailed plans for these infrastructure projects, which will be funded through a ₱2-billion loan secured from the Development Bank of the Philippines in November this year.

Engr. Laguisma explained that Governor Dennis Socrates' administration goal is to make the province more climate-resilient and disaster-prepared through these infrastructure projects.

"This loan primarily emphasizes road development to guarantee the connectivity and accessibility of our communities, especially in the event of natural disasters," Laguisma explained.

At the center of the plan is the development of about 76 kilometers of road networks spanning various areas within the province. A sum of ₱1.4 billion, she said, has been allocated for this. These roadways are anticipated to enhance transportation infrastructure and offer improved connectivity to diverse communities within Palawan.

To address the recurring issue of flooding, ₱300 million has been set aside for a comprehensive Flood Control Program, primarily targeting the southern areas of Palawan.

Aside from this, another ₱300 million will be invested in the establishment of two Disaster Forward Operating Bases in the towns of Taytay and Sofronio Española.

These facilities will be utilized by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office for swift disaster response.

"It's a three-story building measuring 40 by 42 square meters, equipped with a full backup generator and a water tank to ensure that we are prepared to respond to our communities in case of any disasters," she mentioned.

These DFOBs will also serve as mini-capitols for the northern and southern regions of the province. They will house the Office of the Governor, various provincial government offices, national agencies, a session hall, and more, bringing the government closer to residents in distant municipalities.

Laguisma said the infrastructure projects reflect the government's commitment to enhancing Palawan's resilience in the face of natural disasters and improving the overall quality of life for its citizens.