Carmen, Cotabato — The new year has brought a wave of blessings to the town of Carmen as it became the latest beneficiary of infrastructure projects spearheaded by the provincial government of Cotabato.
On January 6, 2025, five barangays in Carmen officially received various infrastructure projects during a turnover ceremony led by representatives of the provincial government. The projects included:
- Barangay Ugalingan: Road concreting project worth PHP 9,975,003.14.
- Barangay General Luna: Multi-purpose building (MPB) valued at PHP 4,990,277.21.
- Barangay Tonganon: Road concreting project worth PHP 9,981,238.65.
- Barangay Aroman: Multi-purpose building amounting to PHP 4,990,675.78.
- Barangay Tambad: Multi-purpose building worth PHP 4,990,670.96.
The activity was graced by representatives of Cotabato Governor Lala Taliño-Mendoza, including Board Members Ivy Dalumpines-Ballitoc, Joemar Cerebo, and Jonathan Tabara, who conveyed heartfelt congratulations to the residents and officials of the beneficiary barangays. They emphasized that the projects reflect the governor’s commitment to her “Serbisyong Totoo” (True Service) governance approach.
Local officials expressed their joy and gratitude for the fulfilled promises of Gov. Mendoza. They highlighted how these projects will significantly improve the transportation of goods and enhance public services. “These projects are a testament to the provincial government’s dedication to the progress of our communities,” said Cecilio Apostol, Chairman of Barangay Aroman.
Vice Mayor Ryan Taliño, along with members of the Sangguniang Bayan, joined the ceremony. Also in attendance were Barangay Chairmen Salipada Bandera (Ugalingan), Reynaldo Camique (Tonganon), Michael Tenefrancia (Tambad), and Gil Dondonayos (General Luna), who all expressed their optimism for the opportunities these developments bring.
These infrastructure projects are expected to drive economic growth in Carmen by providing better access to markets and improving community facilities, aligning with the provincial government’s broader vision of sustainable development for Cotabato.