DAVAO ORIENTAL –In line with its bid to support local governance in the barangays through the provision of infrastructure projects, the provincial government has recently turned over a two-story multi-purpose building in Barangay Central in the City of Mati.
No less than Governor Nelson Dayanghirang turned over the new structure to the barangay officials of Barangay Central on July 8, 2020.
Situated in a 480 square meter lot next to the Barangay Hall, the P6 million structure will also serve as an evacuation center which can accommodate up to 400 persons.
Putting a premium on saving lives, the structure was designed to withstand strong earthquakes and other disasters. According to the Provincial Engineer’s Office, making infrastructure projects earthquake-resistant is in line with the provincial government’s efforts to create disaster-resilient communities.
Governor Dayanghirang said that with Barangay Central being one of the most populated barangays in the City Mati, a spacious and sturdy structure is needed to accommodate people seeking refuge from disasters.
While intended to provide a safe space for people during disasters, the structure, said Governor Dayanghirang will also be useful in official gatherings, such as meetings, seminars, and conferences. And with its spacious area, people can still practice physical distancing and gather without breaking the minimum health standards amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
City of Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat, who witnessed the turn-over ceremony, thanked Governor Dayanghirang for the projects he has been implementing in the city.
Awed by the plan and the design, Mayor Rabat said that the city will pattern its infrastructure projects with that of the provincial government. “Since this is now the model, we will replicate this. And since there is only one structural engineer in the province, we will follow the same program of works,” she said as she assured Governor Dayanghirang her all-out support to his administration. “We will be back you up, Governor, in all our endeavors,” she said.
Second District Representative Congressman Joel Mayo Almario, who also graced the event, also assured that his office will pitch-in whatever it can to help the province push for further developments. “The important thing is that we all collaborate and work together,” he said.
Punong Barangay Daniel Macaubos of Barangay Central expressed his gratitude to the provincial government for all its assistance.
Also witnessing the turn-over ceremony were Vice Governor Niño Uy, Board Members Dennis Roflo and Anacleto Macatabog, Mati City Councilor Cheeno Almario, and the members of Barangay Central Council with former City Councilors Ma. Gracia Tiago and Jimboy Dayanghirang. By: Neela G. Duallo/Photos by Eden Jhan Licayan
