by Sheila Covarrubias
Grateful residents of Maasin on Thursday expressed elation that the city government under the leadership of Mayor Celso Lobregat continuously initiates projects that impact the lives of the barangay folks.
This, as Mayor Lobregat turned over to the Maasin Barangay Council chaired by MIsael ?Doglo? Bernardo, the newly-constructed wellness center worth P1.4 million which form part of the present administration?s accelerated health services and massive infrastructure program.
?The people of Maasin are very grateful to Mayor Lobregat and the city government for this project which will help improve the well-being of the barangay,? Bernardo said.
Bernardo said the wellness center is only one of the many projects worth millions of pesos initiated for the barangay. ?These projects are truly beneficial to our constituents?.
Bernardo said he and the barangay council will take care of the projects and ensure that they will be made available to deserving residents of Maasin.
Mayor Lobregat said the wellness center which sports the new design for barangay health centers is proof that the present administration is consistent in its concern for the barangay sector. He said wellness centers including barangay halls, school buildings, road concreting projects, bridges, irrigation canals and other infrastructure projects are being initiated as they ensure development and progress.
City Health Officer Rodel Agbulos said the wellness center connotes a higher level than a health center. ?This facility is not only for sick people but it is also where we conduct education on reproductive health, provide free consultations, orientations and other activities that contribute to the wellbeing of the residents?.
Dr. Agbulos said the newly-constructed wellness center is the second health facility for the barangay. The first is located near the Badjao village in Caragasan.
The wellness center equipped with DOTS-TB facility and a delivery room for expanded services.
Accompanying the mayor during the turn over Thursday noon were District I Congresswoman Beng Climaco and Council aspirants from the red team Councilors Jimmy Cabato, Noning Biel, Rudy Lim and Gerky Valesco and Myra Paz Abubakar, Bong Atilano, Kaiser Olaso and Pinpin Pareja. Italian priest Fr. Nap officiated the blessing rites.
The turn over activity was followed by the red team?s house to house sortie and the capped by a well-attended rally at a vacant lot near the residence of the barangay chairman at night.