This coastal town was recently adjudged the "most-business friendly" municipality of the province.
The citation came from the Sarangani Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (SCCIF), which noted that "Maitum municipality has provided an environment that nurtures the progress and dynamism of its local enterprises and industries resulting to gainful economic use of its natural resources and job generation."
The chamber evaluated the seven municipalities based on business regulation, competitiveness and innovative practices.
Maitum's nomination paper was the last entry signed by Mayor George Yabes before he was shot by hired killers on November 11.
The foundation also honored Yabes with a posthumous award "for his selfless dedication, exemplary leadership and dedicated services which he has demonstrated with high degree of conduct and professionalism as founding president of SCCIF."
Both awards were received by Rosita Yabes, wife of the slain mayor, and Vice Mayor Tito Balazon.
Yabes, who was completing his third term in office, turned Maitum into an award-winning town that excelled in promoting child rights, maternal health care, environmental protection and educational tourism.
Under his watch, civil society actively participated in planning, decision-making and implementation of projects and programs.
Infrastructure projects in Maitum were done by administration to generate jobs and savings, instead of hiring contractors usually associated with kickbacks.
Yabes built the new P18-million municipal hall with three wings now completed, except for the atrium where his final wake was held.
A modern Bagsakan Public Market complex for farmers and fishermen was fast developing with P11 million already put in its construction.
These major projects and awards reaped had changed Maitum's landscape from dull to a vibrant community.
A climate of fear, however, took over Maitum after Mayor Yabes was killed.
Illegal loggers have reportedly resumed hauling timber during wee hours, said residents who spoke on condition for fear of reprisals.
In a related development, Maitum residents last Friday began a signature campaign addressed to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for the speedy solution of the murder of Yabes.
The petitioners asked the President "to direct the Department of Interior and Local Government and the Department of Justice to speed up the investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators; uphold the rule of law and deliver the justice we all deserve." (BSS)
