Bukidnon guv drives rural growth, agri productivity in SOPA

MALAYBALAY CITY (PIA) — Governor Rogelio Neil P. Roque delivered his State of the Province Address (SOPA) on July 5, marking a significant milestone in Bukidnon’s development.

He highlighted key programs and projects centered on a five-point socioeconomic agenda framed as Robust local economy and agricultural productivity; Opportunity-driven infrastructure; Quality local governance and lasting public order; Universal health care and better social services; and environmental protection, adaptation, and resilience.

Robust Economy and Agricultural Productivity

"The framework's first pillar is fostering a robust local economy and enhancing agricultural productivity. Despite recent pandemic challenges, Bukidnon’s agriculture sector remains vibrant, thanks to the full support of the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAgrO) and Department of Agriculture, which aid our farmers for continued advancement," Roque said.

The initiatives, he said, have modernized farming practices, improved agricultural infrastructure, and supported local businesses to drive economic growth.

He reported that one of his notable achievements is the Bahay Kubo project, which established nine communal gardens in 2023. These gardens—equipped with plant nurseries, storage rooms, tools, and water reservoirs—supply twelve types of vegetables to meet local food needs. Thousands of seedlings are distributed, with another nine gardens nearing completion.

“The notable projects include the Crumb Rubber Processing and Marketing Enterprise in Migcawayan Damulog, which is 55.35 percent complete, and the Green Coffee Bean Processing and Marketing Enterprise in Pigtauranan, Pangantucan, which is 61.57 percent complete. PAgrO also drives a shift toward organic agriculture, including agri-fairs, school-on-air programs, and training. The distribution of organic fertilizers supports healthier farming practices and sustainable agriculture," the governor said.

Roque announced the state-of-the-art Rice Processing System in Sinabuagan, Valencia City, under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) project, which includes a multi-pass rice mill and recirculating dryer to enhance farming capabilities and the implementation of Philippine Rural Development Projects (PRDP) with assistance from the Department of Agriculture.

Opportunity-driven Infrastructure

Roque focuses on infrastructure to create opportunities for all. Key projects include constructing and upgrading roads, bridges, and public facilities. He said these efforts will boost connectivity, support economic activities, and provide vital services to underserved areas.

Quality Local Governance and Lasting Public Order

The governor detailed the province's accomplishments in transparent and effective governance. His efforts have enhanced public safety and order through improved law enforcement, active community engagement, and efficient service delivery, ensuring a well-governed and secure environment.

Governor Rogelio Neil P. Roque delivers his State of the Province Address (SOPA), a comprehensive overview of the recent achievements under his administration, and a strategic outlook, emphasizing priority programs and projects designed to propel Bukidnon forward. (JNCL-GIP/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

Universal Health Care and Better Social Services

"The provincial government has successfully expanded access to healthcare and improved social services. Accomplishments include upgrading health facilities, increasing health coverage, providing better support for vulnerable populations, ensuring comprehensive care, and enhancing social welfare," he said.

Environmental Protection, Adaptation, and Resilience

Focused on environmental stewardship, the governor's strategy has effectively advanced protecting natural resources, adapting to climate change, and implementing measures to enhance sustainability and resilience against ecological challenges. These involved setting up conservation programs to manage and protect forests, water sources, and biodiversity. Reforestation projects and wildlife protection efforts ensure these resources stay intact for future generations.

Commitment to Collaboration

The governor explained in his SOPA how crucial cooperation and teamwork are to accomplishing his objectives. He said the five-point agenda, a product of collective efforts from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, provincial government, and stakeholders, underscores this approach.

"We plan to expand agricultural initiatives, launch additional infrastructure projects, and introduce innovative programs to address emerging challenges. Our commitment includes enhancing governance and public service delivery to meet residents' needs. Building on past achievements, we aim to create a prosperous and sustainable future through an inclusive development agenda driven by innovation and collaboration. (BGE/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

With support from Bukidnon mayors, Gov. Rogelio Neil Roque (11th from right) and Vice-Governor Clive Quiño (10th from left) are committed to a prosperous, sustainable future through an inclusive, innovative, and collaborative development agenda. (BGE/PIA-10/Bukidnon)