CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (May 17, 2024/PIA) – The government is doubling down on infrastructure development in northern Mindanao to drive progress across the entire region

During his speech at the distribution of financial aid for farmers and fisherfolk affected by El Niño in the cities of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized key infrastructure projects poised to elevate the region into a global gateway, a leading agricultural center, and a key industrial, tourism, and trade hub in the country.

Among these projects is the P8-billion Panguil Bay Bridge project, linking Tangub City in Misamis Occidental and Tubod in Lanao del Norte. The government has also allocated nearly P2 billion for the implementation of the Iligan City Coastal Bypass Road. These projects are expected to stimulate economic activity and enhance regional accessibility.

“Nariyan din ang patuloy na paggawa ng pagsasaayos ng mga daan, kabilang na ang CDO Coastal Road at CDO Diversion Road upang makatulong sa pagpabilis ng biyahe ng ating mga kababayan, gayon din ang mga pangunahing produkto na sa ating mga merkado,” the President said.

(There are also ongoing road improvements, including the CDO Coastal Road and CDO Diversion Road, which aim to expedite travel for our citizens and transport essential products to our markets.)

Marcos also highlighted plans for expanding, rehabilitating, and developing airports across Northern Mindanao, particularly those in Lumbia, Laguindingan, Ozamiz City, Camiguin, and Bukidnon. The projections indicate that these initiatives will stimulate economic growth and create fresh prospects for the local population.

“Upang mapabuti ang lagay ng transportasyon sa Cagayan de Oro at sa Northern Mindanao, isinasagawa na po natin ang ilang improvement at saka development project. Isa na rito ang pagpapalawig ng Laguindingan Airport na may halagang halos labing tatlong bilyong piso,” he said.

(To enhance transportation in Cagayan de Oro and Northern Mindanao, we are implementing various improvement and development projects. One of these is the expansion of Laguindingan Airport, with a cost of nearly P13 billion.)

The President further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fast-track the completion of the P700-million Cagayan de Oro Port Expansion Project, aimed at optimizing port operations and facilitating efficient transport of goods and passengers.

Acknowledging the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, Marcos stressed the significance of investing in healthcare infrastructure. He said plans are underway to establish trauma and multi-specialty Centers at the Northern Mindanao Medical Center, ensuring continued access to quality healthcare for all residents.

He also expressed support for irrigation and flood control projects aimed at addressing water scarcity and flood issues. “Masaya akong ipaalam na ang Flood Risk Improvement and Management Project para sa Cagayan de Oro River ay atin pasisinayaan. Katuwang ang iba pang irrigation at water project, inaasahang magiging malaki ang ginhawang dala nito sa CDO,” he announced.

(I am pleased to announce the inauguration of the Flood Risk Improvement and Management Project for the Cagayan de Oro River. Alongside other irrigation and water projects, it is expected to greatly alleviate concerns in CDO.)

The president stated that the completion of two solar pump irrigation projects in the municipalities of Salvador and Sapad, which cost nearly P30 million, is the top priority in Lanao del Norte.

As northern Mindanao embarks on the journey of infrastructure development, Marcos reiterates his confidence in the region’s ability to overcome challenges and progress with unity and concerted efforts between the government and its people.

He emphasized that with the collective support, assistance, and unity of the people, coupled with the government’s swift responses to citizens’ needs, their endeavors will succeed in addressing not only drought and water issues but also contributing to the nation’s advancement. (Apipa P. Bagumbaran /PIA-10).