Iloilo rolls out PHP 27.8 million Batad projects

By Mariela Angella Oladive

ILOILO CITY — The Iloilo provincial government rolled out PHP 27.8 million in infrastructure projects in Batad on Aug. 1, improving road connectivity and expanding community facilities as the town marked its 77th founding anniversary.

The projects included the completion of the PHP 19 million Barangay Salong Haunch Bridge and the concreting and rehabilitation of a 250-linear-meter section of the Cabagohan–Binon-an–Alinsolong–Banban Junction National Road.

The provincial government also broke ground for a PHP 3.8 million, two-story multipurpose hall in Barangay Poblacion.

Officials also inaugurated a PHP 5 million, two-story Family and Youth Development Center.

Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the turnover of the bridge, which replaced an overflow crossing that had long disrupted travel during heavy rains.

Barangay Salong Chairman Sanny Demin said the former crossing made travel difficult for students, farmers, fisherfolk, motorists, and residents of nearby communities whenever the river swelled.

Demin said the bridge now provides safer and more reliable access to the town proper and neighboring barangays.

The planned multipurpose hall will serve as a venue for barangay programs, public services, and community activities.

The newly inaugurated Family and Youth Development Center is the third completed facility of its kind in Iloilo after centers in Igbaras and Lemery.

The Provincial Population Office said the province has established 31 Family and Youth Development Center sites.

The centers are intended to provide spaces for programs and services supporting young people and families in local communities.

Defensor said the projects reflected collaboration among the provincial, municipal, and barangay governments in delivering infrastructure to communities.

Mayor Elvira Alarcon thanked the provincial government for its continued infrastructure investments in Batad.

Alarcon said the projects supported the municipality’s goal of becoming a “Greater Batad.”