MAASIN City Mayor Nacional Mercado has expressed optimism over the upcoming completion of his two new priority infrastructure projects to bring security and revenue in the city.
Mercado said the construction of permanent evacuation center in Barangay Rizal and the slaughterhouse in Barangay Ibarra is now 70 percent completion.
"The perennial use of schools as evacuation centers has affected the operation of schools in the aftermath of disasters. This situation leads to the construction of a permanent evacuation center from the city's 20 percent economic development fund," said Mercado.
He said the city needs a permanent evacuation center that is situated in an area far from flooding and storm surge.
"By next month, we are expecting that this project will be turned over already," he said, adding that painting works and ceiling works are currently ongoing.
Mercado also requested the engineering office to procure foldable tents or cubicles that will serve as small rooms to evacuees.
He said the building can also be used as regular offices for different departments that are related to disaster response when there are no occupants yet.
It can also be used as storage rooms in times of disasters.
Meanwhile, Mercado is hoping that the new slaughterhouse will be in full operation next year to cater to Maasinhons and neighboring towns.
"Aside from the revenue the city will get from its operation, this project has been prioritized to ensure standards of hygiene, the prevention of the spread of diseases and minimization of needless animal cruelty in the city," he said.
The City Engineering Office is currently working on its steelworks, painting, tile, plumbing, and electrical to fully complete the project.
Also, a specialized water system will be built to effectively clean the operation area.
Earlier, Mercado also turned over a new Toyota van for the Maasin City Division to help the school officials and personnel in their job.
"We will start great and help greater," Mercado told the city division officials. (SunStar Philippines)