ILIGAN CITY — Senatorial candidate Luis “Manong Chavit” Singson is advocating for economic diversification in Iligan City to ensure long-term stability and reduce dependence on a few industries.

During his visit to Northern Mindanao on Friday, Manong Chavit emphasized that while manufacturing — particularly the steel and cement industries — has been a driving force for the city’s economy, Iligan should invest in non-industrial sectors such as agriculture, information technology and tourism.

“Diversifying the economy will create more opportunities for Iligan’s people and reduce our dependence on just a few industries,” Singson stated. “We need to open doors for growth in agriculture, IT and tourism to ensure the city’s resilience for the future.”

Drawing on his extensive business experience, Manong Chavit is focused on attracting public-private partnerships (PPPs) to drive the development of new industries and strengthen the city’s economic resilience.

With a population of 363,115 and rapidly growing industries, Iligan is confronted with the urgent need to upgrade its infrastructure to keep pace with its expanding demands.

Singson, who is listed as No. 58 on the Senate ballot, has long championed infrastructure modernization across the country, and his vision for Iligan includes improved road networks and transportation systems to better connect the city with other areas of Mindanao.

His action plan advocates for the development of efficient inter-city transportation and sustainable urban planning to ensure that the city’s growth is in harmony with environmental and logistical needs. By improving connectivity, Singson believes Iligan can not only boost its economy but also enhance access to vital services for its residents.

“We need to ensure that infrastructure development supports Iligan’s growth. Better roads and efficient transport systems will make it easier for people and goods to move, improving the overall quality of life,” said Manong Chavit, whose platforms include the jeepney modernization program.

He also acknowledged the protection of Iligan’s natural resources, particularly the water systems that power the region’s hydroelectric plants, adding it is crucial for balancing industrial needs with ecological preservation.

As a prominent figure in environmental advocacy, Singson has called for eco-friendly projects that support tourism while safeguarding the environment.

In particular, Singson is focused on ensuring the sustainable use of the Agus River and Maria Cristina Falls, both key water sources for the city’s hydroelectric plants. He advocates for policies that balance industrial water use with ecological sustainability, ensuring that future generations can benefit from Iligan’s natural resources.

“We cannot let industry destroy the beauty of our natural surroundings,” Singson said. “We need to work together to make sure we use our resources wisely while still fostering growth.”

Singson, known for his commitment to peace and order in Ilocos Sur, proposed to strengthen security measures and promote community policing in Iligan.

He believes that addressing peace and order is not just about law enforcement but also about tackling the root causes of crime, such as poverty. By supporting livelihood programs for vulnerable sectors, Singson aims to reduce crime driven by economic hardship.

“Peace and order are essential for growth. We need to make sure that every resident feels safe and secure. This starts with giving people the means to improve their lives,” said Manong Chavit, whose VBank initiatives and Chavit500 universal basic income proposal are gaining widespread support across the country.