ILOILO – Barangay Nalbugan in Calinog has emerged as one of the latest beneficiaries of the provincial government’s infrastructure drive, securing more than P27 million worth of projects that promise to transform mobility, safety, and community life.
Leading the list is a newly completed three-kilometer provincial road costing P21 million, which now links Nalbugan to the town proper and to the boundary of neighboring Bingawan.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., who led the inauguration on September 29, said the project directly addresses one of the community’s long-standing challenges: accessibility.
Complementing the road project are solar-powered streetlights valued at P1.75 million, a safety measure that residents welcomed with relief.
The once pitch-dark thoroughfares, they said, have become safer for pedestrians and motorists alike.
“Lain na gid ang Nalbugan halin sang una nga naghapit ako diri. Pero kulang pa ina. Gusto naton tagaan sang mayo nga solusyon ang inyo problema sa tubig,” Defensor told the crowd, assuring them that solving the barangay’s water supply shortage remains a top priority.
The inauguration, held at the new P3.5 million barangay covered gym funded by Cong. Lorenz Defensor, also showcased other developments: a P1 million Barangay Hall, a P300,000 Tanod Outpost, and new equipment ranging from CCTV cameras to computers and air-conditioning units provided by the provincial government.
Barangay Captain Ronie Bulandra expressed gratitude for the continued assistance.
“These projects will not only improve our infrastructure but also strengthen governance and community services,” he said.
Mayor Francisco Calvo, Vice Mayor Andrew Castaños, Board Member Mark Palabrica, and other officials joined the event, which residents described as a milestone in Nalbugan’s progress.
With better roads, brighter streets, and modernized facilities, Nalbugan is positioning itself as a model barangay for infrastructure development in the upland town of Calinog./PN
