Iloilo: The provincial government of Iloilo, led by Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., has released PHP212.94 million in funding for projects across education, disaster resilience, public safety, and agriculture. The ceremony marked a significant step in addressing infrastructural and educational needs within the province.
According to Philippines News Agency, a substantial portion of the allocated funds, amounting to PHP125.32 million, is dedicated to education. This investment aims to address classroom shortages and enhance the learning environment in schools. Maria Freda Fajardo, Provincial School Board secretary, emphasized the continued implementation of the Bulig sa Eskwela sang Probinsya (BES PROBBINS) program. Now in its third year, this initiative focuses on infrastructure development, including building classrooms and upgrading learning facilities.
In an interview, Governor Defensor highlighted the urgent need for approximately 1,665 classrooms, with makeshift classrooms in 468 schools prioritized. He noted that the funding aligns with the Department of Education's budget plans and that local governments will implement the projects, returning any savings to the province. Defensor aims to implement around PHP500 million in projects by the end of his term in 2028. He mentioned that Secretary Sonny Angara recognized Iloilo as a model during a budget discussion in Congress.
In addition to education, the province allocated PHP58.320 million for disaster risk reduction and adaptation initiatives, PHP6 million for agricultural projects, and PHP15.3 million for the operational expenses of the Iloilo Provincial Office Defense cluster. Other allocations include PHP1 million for goods procurement for the CAFGU Active Auxiliary, PHP4 million for establishing the 6th Regional Community Defense Group, and PHP3 million for providing a vehicle to the 6th Regional Community Defense Group of the Philippine Army.
During the ceremony, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency were also presented with keys to their new service vehicles.
