Over 5,200 families in Catanduanes benefit from P30-M LGSF rice aid, solar project
By Edna Bagadiong
VIRAC, Catanduanes --- A total of 5,203 households in Pandan town received rice from a P30 million fund allocated by the national government under the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF).
Pandan Mayor Honesto Tabligan expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for providing this funding, which is designated for rice assistance and solar power projects in several barangays.
According to Tabligan, the rice assistance for the 5,203 families is being distributed in four tranches.
The local government is currently awaiting the fourth release from the National Food Authority (NFA).
“The entire community of Pandan is thankful to President Ferdinand Marcos and Secretary Jonvic Remulla of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for implementing this program, which included an allocation of P30 million for rice and local infrastructure projects,” Tabligan said.
The mayor said that rice distributions have already begun, with four tranches of 10 kilos per household being distributed in each batch.
“We are currently in the third tranche, with one more to follow. We are waiting for the National Food Authority (NFA) to release it, as we have made purchases in accordance with the guidelines in cooperation with the national agency,” he explained.
Additionally, a budget of P25 million was allocated for a solar lighting project that benefited six barangays, particularly along the main roads in and out of Pandan.
“The lights have improved safety for motorists and have also created a more comfortable environment for those exercising at night. Furthermore, they have significantly contributed to the peace and order in our town,” said Tabligan.
“Regarding the infrastructure, it has already been implemented, with P25 million allocated for solar lights in six barangays that are benefiting our constituents,” he said.
He explained that “the area going in and out of Pandan was very dark, and our electricity supply was unstable.”
“With the solar project, accidents have decreased, and our transport groups now have a well-lit road,” Tabligan added.
Barangay Captain Gilbert Bagay of Tariwara expressed his gratitude for the support received from the national government.
“It is a great relief to be able to provide rice to families in our barangay. This assistance significantly eases the burden for every family in our area, especially given the high cost of living,” Bagay said.
“The Marcos administration does not forget to provide us with aid like rice. Thank you very much, President Bongbong Marcos,” he added. (PIA Bicol/Catanduanes)
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