P1.07-B projects for insurgency-affected villages in W. Visayas

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Department of the Interior and Local Government Western Visayas (DILG-6) has released around P1.07 billion worth of projects to conflict-affected areas in the region since 2022 as part of the Support to the Barangay Development Program Projects (SBDP).

In the fiscal year 2022, DILG-6 reported that 98 projects were approved with a fund allocation of P364 million.

In 2023, 118 projects were approved with around P654 million in funding, while 22 projects have been approved so far in 2024 with a fund allocation of P55 million.

“Where they previously felt disconnected from the government, the projects we’re now implementing are being felt in the barangays,” said Juan Jovian Ingeniero, DILG-6 director, in a press conference on Tuesday.

“People are starting to see and appreciate the benefits, and input from local businesses is increasing, with noticeable improvements in livelihoods,” he added.

The SBDP is the government’s program to assist in the development and delivery of basic services in identified conflict-affected areas that fell behind due to the previous influence of rebels.

Projects under SBDP include the construction of farm-to-market roads, health stations, school buildings, water and sanitation systems, rural electrification, and social services such as agricultural and livelihood training projects and immediate cash assistance to individuals and families.

Ingeniero mentioned that funding has gradually decreased due to the reduced sightings of rebels in the region.

“From the start, the number of barangays with sightings of rebels has decreased. Initially, we targeted 378 conflict areas,” he said.

However, Ingeniero emphasized that with this decrease, the DILG’s work in monitoring and identifying areas affected by CTGs (Communist Terrorist Groups) has become more challenging.

“We cannot fight it toe to toe, so we might as well help those with problems in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas,” he added.

Ingeniero stressed that the DILG is actively working with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to declare Western Visayas insurgency-free by 2028.

He also mentioned that discussions are already underway regarding the documentation needed to declare that Negros Occidental has “managed” the local communist armed conflict.