SAN LUIS-- The Provincial Government of Pampanga inaugurated the newly constructed covered court extension, community kitchen, and comfort rooms in this town on Friday, September 23.
This is in line with the province's disaster preparedness initiatives.
Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda, along with San Luis Mayor Jayson Sagum, Sangguniang Bayan Members, Barangay Captains, and PDRRM Chief Angelina Blanco, led the inauguration ceremony at the Emigdio Bondoc Gym.
Pineda encouraged the residents of San Luis to cherish and ensure the functionality of these facilities.
The governor assured continued efforts to undertake projects addressing the town's needs during disasters.
“Itong project na ito na ibinigay po namin ni Vice Governor Nanay at ng mga Board Members niyo ay para in times of disaster may magamit po kayong evacuation center. Huwag po kayong mag-alala, anumang kailangan niyo dito sa bayan ng San Luis, open ho lagi ang Kapitolyo,” said the governor.
The construction of the facilities worth Php 6.9 million was funded through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).
Blanco said the upgraded covered court aligns with the provincial government's disaster preparedness programs.
“Yung trend ng San Luis at ibang town sa fourth district talagang binabaha sila. Hindi natin maanticipate ang taas ng baha. This can serve as a staging area and pick-up point kung sakaling dalhin natin sila sa permanent evacuation center natin sa Mexico,” she said.
Mayor Sagum expressed gratitude to the provincial government for the project.
He stressed that the facility will serve as a disaster response hub and venue for youth programs.
“Malaking tulong itong ibinigay ni Governor sa atin. Kumbaga nagpreprepare tayo in case of disaster. So, dahil multipurpose siya nagagamit din natin siya sa ibang activities like mga programs natin sa kabataan - volleyball and basketball tournaments,” said Mayor Sagum.
The inauguration ceremony coincided with the opening of the women’s inter-barangay volleyball competition which was also attended by the governor.
To foster sports camaraderie among the youth, the governor personally provided financial assistance to all participating teams in the tournament.