BACOLOD City — A coordinated push to strengthen mobility, disaster preparedness, and community services gained momentum on April 14, as six key infrastructure projects were formally inaugurated in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
The inauguration was led by Negros Occidental Third District Representative Javier Miguel Benitez. The rollout highlights a broader development strategy focused on resilience, accessibility, and inclusive growth at the barangay level.
Spanning multiple communities, the projects address long-standing gaps in transport safety, evacuation capacity, and public spaces—critical needs for a city balancing agricultural activity with increasing urban demands.
At the forefront is a newly completed two-storey multi-purpose building in Barangay XIV, designed to serve as a dedicated evacuation center.
The 146.3-square-meter facility integrates a healthcare clinic and a Sangguniang Kabataan hall, strengthening emergency response while expanding access to essential services. Rising 7.28 meters from ground to roof apex, the structure enhances the city’s disaster preparedness.
Transport connectivity also saw major upgrades.
In Barangay XII, the Nasipunan–Gloria Bridge replaces an unsafe crossing with a 29-meter reinforced concrete structure built to ensure uninterrupted movement. Equipped with full civil components—including foundations, girders, deck slab, railings, drainage, slope protection, and approach roads—the bridge is expected to streamline the flow of residents and agricultural goods.
Meanwhile, the rehabilitation of the Santa Cruz Bridge in Barangay XX improves safety along another key route. The 8.2-meter, two-lane structure now features asphalt overlay, reflectorized thermoplastic markings, and reinforced stone masonry with gabions to enhance durability and commuter safety.
Community infrastructure was also upgraded across three barangays.
In Barangay VI-A, a rehabilitated covered court now includes a 480-square-meter slab, along with an improved stage and bleachers, enhancing its use for civic and recreational activities. A similar upgrade in Barangay III delivers a strengthened 480-square-meter playing surface with a 9.6-meter structural height, supporting both sports and public gatherings.
In Barangay V, improvements expanded the covered court complex into a more comprehensive community hub. Additions include an upgraded stage, environmental office facilities, covered bleachers, gender-segregated restrooms, and a solar panel system—introducing sustainability features alongside improved functionality.
Local officials, led by Victorias City Mayor Abelardo Bantug III and Vice Mayor Derek Palanca, joined barangay leaders, council members, and community stakeholders during the inauguration rites./PN
