Sogod: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Southern Leyte provincial office has announced the successful completion of several infrastructure projects in Sogod town. These projects, part of the Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP), focus on remote and former conflict-affected communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, the projects were executed in collaboration with the local government of Sogod and the Philippine Army’s 14th Infantry Battalion. The initiative aims to foster peace and development in villages that have previously faced insurgency challenges.
The DILG’s recent report highlights these projects’ role in improving access to basic services and livelihood opportunities for residents. Key projects include farm-to-market roads in Barangays Pancho Villa and SF Mabuhay, which are designed to boost local economic growth by facilitating better access to markets, schools, and government services.
In Barangay Hipantag, a PHP5-million farm-to-market road and a PHP2.5-million water system project were inaugurated. These developments are expected to improve community mobility and provide reliable water supply to about 280 residents.
The construction of a PHP2.5-million school building in Barangay Dagsa aims to enhance the educational environment for students, supporting local efforts to strengthen education in remote areas.
Barangay Pandan now benefits from a PHP2.5-million potable water supply system, serving approximately 2,000 residents with clean drinking water. Additionally, a PHP5-million farm-to-market road was constructed to aid farmers in transporting goods and accessing opportunities.
New health stations were also unveiled in Barangays San Juan and Benit, each valued at PHP2.5 million. These facilities will serve 785 residents in San Juan and 405 residents in Benit, providing essential medical services locally.
DILG Southern Leyte provincial director Danilo Laguitan emphasized the government’s dedication to inclusive development and peacebuilding. He credited the leadership of Mayor Sheffered Lino S. Tan and the support of the Philippine Army for the successful implementation of these projects.
Laguitan stressed that the projects represent a commitment to fostering resilience and progress in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. He acknowledged the ongoing role of community cooperation in ensuring the projects’ lasting impact.
The SBDP, part of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, addresses development gaps in remote areas by delivering essential infrastructure and services, ultimately aiming to mitigate insurgency causes.
