Sagay City’s new roads boost economy, reduce travel time

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – The development of countryside roads in Sagay City, Negros Occidental has catalyzed economic growth and shortened commutes between communities.

Representative Alfredo “Thirdy” Marañon III remarked on Tuesday that the construction of bypass roads, with a P55 million allocation, is underway.

These roads traverse the uplands and serve as an alternative to congested highways, facilitating easier market access for local farmers and ensuring agricultural products like tomatoes arrive undamaged.

“In the past, when they transported tomatoes to sell, they arrived sliced, now they will remain tomatoes,” Marañon quipped humorously.

However, Marañon noted that completion is pending due to road right-of-way issues. Once resolved, the travel time between Sagay City and Bacolod City will be significantly reduced.

“It’s also part of our program to ease transport,” Marañon added.

Mayor Narwin Javelosa and Marañon celebrated the conclusion of the city’s fiesta on Tuesday, highlighting the successful and peaceful weeklong events.

Notably, the fiesta saw the inauguration of the NBI clearance center in the city—the only one outside of Bacolod—saving residents both time and travel expenses.

Additionally, Javelosa inaugurated the P158-million modernized city gymnasium, a state-of-the-art facility featuring a fully air-conditioned space, wooden maple flooring for basketball, a 1,500-seat capacity, and amenities catering to sports, cultural events, and medium-sized gatherings.