By Nimfa Estrellado Governor Tan announced a record investment in infrastructure, healthcare, and job creation at the Annual Budget Hearing ...
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| Governor Tan announced a record investment in infrastructure, healthcare, and job creation at the Annual Budget Hearing held on November 12th in Lucena City. (Photo from Quezon PIO) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Governor Angelina "Helen" Tan, speaking at the Annual Budget Hearing for Fiscal Year 2025 held at Kalilayan Hall in Lucena City on November 12th, declared, "This is an investment in our people, our communities, and our future." She emphasized, "This unprecedented investment will serve as the engine for realizing our HEALING Agenda, a comprehensive plan designed to elevate the quality of life for every Quezonian."
The Provincial Council convened to meticulously examine the proposed budget, which unveils a record P6 billion for the upcoming year. This unprecedented investment, marking a significant 14% increase, signals a new era of progress for Quezon Province.
It aims to fuel the province's ambitious "HEALING Agenda," a comprehensive plan designed to elevate the quality of life for every Quezonian. "This is not just a budget; it is an investment in our people, our communities, and our future. We are committed to building a Quezon Province where everyone has the opportunity to thrive," Governor Tan affirmed.
The budget prioritizes key sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and job creation. Residents can anticipate improved roads and bridges, enhanced access to healthcare, and increased employment opportunities. Governor Tan underscored the provincial government's commitment to fiscal responsibility, assuring that every peso will be utilized judiciously and transparently.
The Provincial Council expressed unanimous support for the budget, recognizing its potential to drive dynamic growth and development across Quezon Province. This significant investment sets the stage for a brighter future, promising tangible benefits for all Quezonians.
This comprehensive strategy includes significant initiatives across various sectors. Leading the charge is the Provincial Engineering Office, headed by Engr. Marichelle Ferrer, which will accelerate the development and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and public buildings. This will involve not only constructing new infrastructure but also rehabilitating existing ones to ensure safety and efficiency, with a particular focus on Provincial Government offices and Quezon Provincial Hospital Networks facilities.
To further boost the local economy, the Provincial Tourism Office, spearheaded by Nesler Louies Almagro, aims to attract more visitors by promoting Quezon's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and agri-tourism opportunities. This includes developing new tourist destinations, improving existing ones, and providing support to local businesses in the tourism sector, with a particular emphasis on agri-tourism development.
Recognizing the importance of environmental sustainability, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, under the leadership of Executive Assistant and PGENRO Head John Francis L. Luzano, will prioritize environmental services and law enforcement to protect Quezon's rich natural resources. This involves combating illegal activities like logging and mining while promoting sustainable practices and conserving biodiversity.
The office will also focus on raising public awareness about environmental issues and encouraging community participation in conservation efforts. In the agricultural sector, the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, led by Dr. Flomella Caguicla, will improve livestock programs and bolster disease control measures to ensure the health and safety of the province's livestock population.
This includes vaccination campaigns, disease surveillance, and public awareness programs, with a focus on controlling infectious animal diseases like African Swine Fever. Furthermore, the Public Employment Services Office, headed by Genecille Aguirre, is dedicated to enhancing the provincial government's employment system to create more job opportunities and improve livelihoods for Quezonians.
This will involve providing skills training, job matching services, and support for entrepreneurship. The budget deliberation process, which began on November 12 at Kalilayan Hall in Lucena City, will continue until November 14. This gives other crucial departments, such as the Health Office and Social Welfare Office, the opportunity to present their budget needs to the Provincial Council.
The Health Office is expected to prioritize improving healthcare services and facilities with the goal of increasing access to quality healthcare for all residents, particularly in underserved areas. This may include investments in medical equipment, infrastructure upgrades, and training programs for healthcare professionals. The Social Welfare Office will likely focus on strengthening social safety nets and providing support to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.
This may involve expanding existing programs, developing new initiatives to address emerging social issues, and collaborating with community organizations to deliver services effectively. This ensures a comprehensive and inclusive plan that addresses the diverse needs of Quezon Province.
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