Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez spearheads the Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) Program to 2,200 beneficiaries at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Friday morning. Present at the event are Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Partylist Rep. Erwin Tulfo, Rep. Edvic Yap, Palawan 2nd District Rep. Jose Alvarez, 1st District Rep. Edgardo Salvame and other government officials of the province.
SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday assured officials of Puerto Princesa City and the municipality of Aborlan in Palawan of his full support for the continued development not only for the third congressional district but for the entire province of Palawan.
The House of Representatives designated the Speaker as caretaker of the third district in November last year following the passing of its representative, former Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn.
“In my capacity as your legislative district caretaker and as Speaker of the House, I pledge to marshal all necessary resources to support our key development priorities,” Romualdez said in his message during a lunch with local officials of the province and officers of various government agencies.
“This commitment extends beyond mere words; it is a promise already set into motion. The support from Congress for Puerto Princesa and Palawan will remain steadfast and unyielding,” added Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives.
He noted that under the guiding principles set forth by the National Economic Development Authority, Palawan’s third district is poised for transformative growth and development, citing its strategic importance and the incomparable value Palawan offers as a global tourist destination.
He cited various programs and projects for the district aimed at enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and technology in the region, which are part of broader efforts to improve the quality of life, economic development, and environmental sustainability in Palawan.
The key projects include:
1. Infrastructure Development:
– Construction of the Puerto Princesa City Viaduct to improve transportation and reduce traffic congestion.
– Implementation of renewable energy projects to promote sustainable energy sources.
– Development of cruise port facilities and better access to tourist spots in Puerto Princesa to boost the tourism industry.
2. Healthcare Improvement:
– Support for the Ospital ng Palawan to improve medical facilities and services.
3. Agricultural Development:
– Support for DA and BFAR to support the agriculture and aquaculture industry.
4. Technology and Education:
– Deployment of the Free Wi-Fi Internet Access in Public Places project by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to improve digital connectivity.
– Execution of the School-Based Feeding Program by the Department of Education (DepEd) as well as construction and improvement of needed classrooms to address malnutrition and improve student health and performance.
Inspired by the legacy of the visionary leadership of the late Congressman Hagedorn, Romualdez said these projects are part of a comprehensive plan to foster development, improve public services, and enhance the overall well-being of the residents in the third district of Palawan and the wider region.
“Today, I stand before you, committed to honoring and continuing this legacy, striving to bring about a better Puerto Princesa and a better Palawan for all Palaweños,” Romualdez said.
He noted that during his initial visit to Pag-asa Island last October, he gave assurance that the House would allocate at least P3 billion for critical infrastructure projects, including the airport expansion, naval port and fishing sanctuary, alongside facilities to bolster tourism.
“Such initiatives not only enhance our strategic capabilities but also promise to spotlight the pristine beauty of Pag-asa Island, echoing the success of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park,” Romualdez said.
He underscored the need to capitalize on Palawan’s tourism potential while steadfastly committed to the conservation and management of its natural assets, noting the province has garnered global acclaim — by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast, and TripAdvisor — as a top tourist destination, reflecting its unparalleled natural beauty and biodiversity.
Likewise, he reiterated his commitment to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s initiatives to protect our country’s sovereignty and interest, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
Romualdez said that while his duties as Speaker of the House may limit his physical presence in Palawan, his commitment to the third district remains absolute.
“Through the establishment of the District Caretaker Office, we ensure continuous service delivery to our constituents. In my absence, Karl Legazpi, a dedicated and promising Palaweño, will serve as your direct link to me, ensuring that your needs and concerns are addressed with the urgency and importance they deserve,” he said.
“Let us move forward with regular dialogue and collaboration, focusing on the collective well-being and prosperity of Palawan and its people. Together, we will achieve the vision of a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive future for the 3rd district of Palawan.”
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