MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / Apr. 5, 2012) – The Philippine government said it would soon start road projects in remote areas in the town of Catarman in Northern Samar as part of President Benigno Aquino’s “Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan” (PAMANA) program.
PAMANA is the government’s program and framework for peace and development in areas affected by armed conflict and communities covered by existing peace agreements. It seeks to reduce poverty, improve governance and empower communities.
The program, which literally means “Peaceful and Resilient Communities,” is expected to benefit the town’s folks.
The infrastructure projects include the construction of the 50-meter bridge in the village of San Antonio in Cagpanit-an, and concreting of a 3.1-kilometer section of the road stretch from San Antonio to Sulong, Silvino Lobos.
These road constructions will provide passage ways to hard-to-access areas, especially in Silvino Lobos which locals dubbed as “Little Baguio.” Prior to road construction, the town can only be reached through a motorboat followed by an uphill climb. The place is also known for its cool climate, vegetable crops and lush rainforest.
Just recently, Secretary Teresita Deles, the Presidential peace adviser, led the formal turnover of a cheque worth P156 million to Congressman Raul Daza, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, on behalf of Northern Samar Governor Paul Daza.
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