PNoy gives P100M for bridge project

BACOLOD CITY ,Philippines  — President Benigno Aquino III the other day committed to Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr an allocation of more than P100 million for the construction of an alternate bridge in Fabrica, Sagay City, Negros Occidental.

Marañon, who welcomed Aquino at the Bacolod-Silay Airport Thursday when the president visited the wake of Lourdes dela Rama-Osmeña at the Redemptorist Church in Bacolod, said the release of the money for the bridge project was the fastest he has seen under the present administration.

Next year, more funds will also be released for an access road to the bridge, Marañon said, adding that President Aquino was very well informed about the happenings in Negros Occidental.

Aquino also asked the governor what else he can do to further help the province, adding that if he needs anything for the province, he can see the president at Malacañang, Marañon said, thus he is now preparing a list of projects to be submitted to the president.

Transportation and Communication Secretary Mar Roxas, who accompanied Aquino along with Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, also inquired about the progress of the construction of the alternate road to the Bacolod-Silay Airport so he can help expedite it.

The road that will connect with the Bacolod Circumferential Road is expected to make travel to the airport faster, the governor said.

Marañon said Aquino also inquired about the prices of sugar here, and spoke of the potential of job generation in call centers. One of these is Genpact Philippines that was reportedly interested to establish a facility at the Negros First Cyber Center in the Paglaum Sports Complex. This was expected to provide 1,200 jobs, said the governor.

Marañon also informed Aquino of the recent surrender of 14 rebels, who were given livelihood assistance by the provincial government last Thursday. He also told him of the recent arrest of alleged top New People's Army leader Romeo Nanta by military operatives led by Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander.

Aquino did not allow media coverage during his Thursday visit to Bacolod. He kept it private and without ceremonies.