ALBAY 3rd District Representative Raymond Adrian Salceda outlined an ambitious development roadmap for his constituency as the 20th Congress opened this July, with key priorities focused on infrastructure, disaster readiness, healthcare, renewable energy, and legislative reforms.
In a statement, Salceda vowed to bring government resources closer to the people and use them effectively to improve everyday lives. “Ang trabaho po ng isang Congressman ay simple: ilapit ang mamamayan sa resources ng gobyerno at gamitin ang resources ng gobyerno para umangat ang buhay ng mamamayan,” he said.
Infrastructure Projects in Full Swing
Among the most urgent initiatives Salceda presented is a comprehensive infrastructure plan for Albay’s 3rd District, which has already been submitted to DPWH Secretary Manny Bonoan. The plan includes major roadworks and transport connectivity improvements in the towns of Pio Duran, Ligao, Libon, and Guinobatan.
Salceda also reaffirmed his commitment to the Zero-Casualty policy, particularly as typhoon season nears. Partnering with disaster management expert Dr. Cedric Daep, his office has worked with DSWD to pre-position food packs for fast response and evacuation in vulnerable areas.
Healthcare, LTO, and Hospital Upgrades
On health services, Salceda called out delays in the downloading of Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) funds and urged national agencies to act swiftly, citing an increasing number of patients needing support in local hospitals.
He also announced that the LTO Extension Office in Polangui will become fully operational soon, with only minor equipment pending. Additionally, coordination is ongoing with LGUs to finalize funding for the BRHMC Polangui Extension, expected to expand healthcare capacity in the district.
Green Energy and Road Connectivity
Salceda outlined long-term energy plans under the HANGIN Road Project, which will support the development of wind farms in the district, with a combined generation target of 837 megawatts. The DOE-endorsed initiative aims to link wind farms to Pantao Port and the Bicol International Airport, with upgraded roads like the Jovellar route to facilitate transport of wind turbines and equipment.
Additional road projects in the pipeline include:
Pantao to Tabaco Road
Oas Coast to Mayon Unit Road
Super Libon Highway Network
Pio Duran–Jovellar–Airport Road
The Pantao Ecozone is also in advanced stages, awaiting a presidential proclamation. Meanwhile, the Pantao Super Agricultural Port, a priority of Agriculture Secretary Tiu-Laurel, is in progress.
Legislative Push: FOI and Wage Reform
Salceda reported progress on the legislative front, having been the first to file the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act in the 20th Congress. He also continues to push for the abolition of the Regional Wage Rate system, an advocacy that has already gained traction in national media coverage.
Call for Food Security and Coastal Protection
Ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), Salceda expressed hope that food security and coastal challenges facing Albay’s 3rd District will be given national attention and support.
More Work Ahead
“Marami pa po tayong gagawin sa mga susunod na buwan. Inaasahan ko po ang patuloy ninyong suporta,” Salceda concluded, emphasizing his commitment to inclusive growth, resilient infrastructure, and transparent governance for Albay.
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