DIPOLOG CITY - “We are here to witness the concrete outcome of your choice to follow
the right path. The groundbreaking of this project surely boosts tourism and
commerce, not only in Dipolog but also in Zamboanga del Norte and the whole
region.”
This was the statement of
President Benigno Simeon Aquino in a community gathering following the
groundbreaking of the 14-kilometer road improvement project on Thursday at
Barangay Cogon this city.
For the second time this
year, President Aquino visited Dipolog to lead the groundbreaking of the road improvement and upgrading project
from junction Barangay Cogon to OISCA Park (Japanese Park) and Sungkilaw Falls
in Barangay Diwan, all of this city.
The President was elated
to learn from the Department of Works and Highways (DPWH) that winning bidder
would only charge the government P69, 083, 864.50 of the P80 million
allocation, resulting in savings of P11 million.
“This project is part of
our extensive strategy to develop the infrastructure of our country, which is
the key to boost agriculture and tourism,” declared the President adding “this
is a proof that in ‘tuwid na daan (straight path),’ the welfare of the people
is the primary consideration.”
The President also
disclosed that he planned to pour P13 billion more into tourism roads next
year, in addition to the P21 billion allocation for 2011-2013.
“When the road upgrading
will be completed, tourists will not be burdened to reach Sungkilaw Falls and
Cogon Eco-Tourism Park,” the President pointed out.
“Fresh orchids and fish from Dipolog will be delivered
to the different markets and absolutely more tourists are desirous to visit
here. This would mean that Dipolog can contribute more to our target of 56.1
million domestic tourists for 2016,” Aquino said.
“Today, we are laying the foundation for a
country with equal opportunities to every Filipino, whether in Luzon, Visayas
or Mindanao,” the President concluded. (PIA9)