SAN SIMON -- Mayor Abundio Punsalan, Jr. on Thursday, June 4, 2020, shed light on the P350-million loan being undertaken by the local government here.
This came after several questions were raised by Simonians on social media on the purpose and urgency of the multi-million peso loan contracted with the Development Bank of the Philippines.
According to Punsalan, the sought funds are intended for the construction of a public market, hospital facility, potable water distribution system, municipal park and municipal building.
He explained the need to immediately construct a modern public market to stimulate good commerce and trading that will, later on, invite more business establishments and other investors.
"Covid-19 made me realize how deprived our municipality is from access to necessities. We do not have our hospital, even large pharmacies, supermarkets and ATMs so we have to cross the borders of Apalit or City of San Fernando to purchase what we need," Punsalan said.
But during the recent lockdown, the mayor said Simonians were restricted to enter the said municipalities due to the precautionary measures in place.
A potable water distribution facility is also eyed to finally address the woes of residents on the service of current water concessionaires, he added.
Punsalan, meanwhile, clarified that they are still in the process of applying for the loan, and its approval is not yet guaranteed.
"We are still on step one. It will still pass through a lot of processes and will of course be approved by the Sangguniang Bayan first," he said.
He assured Simonians that the local government will be transparent in the allocation of funds and implementation of the projects should the loan be approved.
He also urged concerned citizens to visit the local government or approach him personally for any questions or clarification regarding the matter.
"There is nothing wrong with taking a loan especially if it will benefit the municipality and the people. And if you have questions, I will gladly accommodate you so everybody will be enlightened and spread of unverified reports will be avoided," Punsalan said.