Engineering Brigade to focus on barangays program in CV

CEBU, Philippines - With three school buildings now standing in Negros Oriental, the 53rd Engineering Brigade of the Philippine Army says it will expedite the implementation of projects under the “Kalayaan Barangays Program” in Central Visayas to beat the 2010 deadline.

So far, two schools have been built in Sta. Catalina town and one in Zamboangita town in Negros Oriental. Construction is also underway for 12 other infrastructure projects in the province.

The “Kalayaan Barangays Program” was adopted by the government to enhance convergence between civilian agencies and the military-police establishments in resolving armed conflicts. It is a government’s effort to overcome insurgency and to maintain the civilians’ trust in the government.

Beneficiaries of the program are those communities affected by armed conflicts and covered by peace agreements between the government and rebels. Among the projects to be built in these communities include roads, school buildings, Level 2 water system facilities, electricity, and appropriate medical facilities.

Col. Arnaldo Fernandez, commander of the 53rd Engineer Brigade, said the program is also a way to show the people that the government is serious in delivering basic services, especially to communities caught in between armed conflicts. He said they aim to finish the projects ahead of schedule.

“This year, our unit will focus on the implementation and completion of the “Kalayaan Barangays Program” projects of the government in the Visayas. With the help of our local officials and the direct beneficiaries, the barangay people, we are sure to complete this project ahead of the target date of completion,” Fernandez said.

Implementation of the program is being headed by the AFP National Development Support Command.

Each barangay beneficiary will be receiving P5 million worth of projects, P4.5 million will cover infrastructure while P500,000 will be allocated for livelihood and social services.

There are 274 infrastructure projects in the Visayas region alone- 149 in Samar Island specifically in the Northern, Western and Eastern part of the province; 83 in Panay Island particularly in Aklan, Iloilo, and Antique; and 42 in Negros Occidental and Oriental.

Last March 13, the program was launched in Region 7 at the Mactan International Airport by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Presidential Assistant for Central Visayas Felix Guanzon. — Niña Chrismae G. Sumacot/JMO (THE FREEMAN)