Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo, in his first State-of-the-Province Address Tuesday afternoon, bared his plans and programs for the remaining two-and-a-half years of his administration{{more}}
Speaking before department heads and representatives from various government agencies and the private sector, Degamo said his agenda for progress is coined in a program called H-E-L-P, for health, education, livelihood programs and projects.
The governor understands that with a limited period, it is important for everybody to work hard and to work fast in order to achieve these goals before his term ends in 2013.
He believes that there can be no real development if the people are not healthy, thus, giving priority to health concerns of the province.
The governor is working for the completion of the four-story central block building at the provincial hospital compound, strengthening the district hospital system, establishment of a mobile surgical team, vowed for the expansion of the Provincial Health Insurance, and to continue granting scholarships to students who wish to pursue medical courses.
On education, the governor will pursue the school building program initiated by the late governor Emilio Macias II, continue giving scholarships to poor but deserving students, and support the essential health care package of the Department of Education, among others.
On livelihood development programs, Governor Degamo wanted to continue promoting the eco-tourism activities as a major industry and to specifically develop the assets and potentials of Tambobo Bay in Barangay Bonbonon, Siaton with an initial allocation of P20 million for this year.
Degamo said he will continue to tap the services of the private sector as partners in providing livelihood opportunities to negrenses as well as maintaining its relationship with the Negros Oriental Business Development Foundation and the chamber of commerce and industry in bringing more investments to the province. (PNA/JFP/Juancho Gallarde)
