THE town of Madridejos on Bantayan Island received three significant infrastructure boosts affecting its tourism, education and basic services on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
Outgoing Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, alongside Madridejos Mayor Romeo Villaceran, led a series of inaugural ceremonies on Tuesday, according to a report from the official social media arm of the Cebu Provincial Government.
The day’s events commenced with the inauguration of the newly improved Barangay Pili-Barangay Kaongkod Road Section, a P50.3 million project. This new road provides safer access to the Madridejos Community College. Spanning over 3.193 kilometers with a width of 6.1 meters and a cement thickness of 9 inches, its dimensions and specifications ensure longevity and long-term benefits for both students and residents.
The governor’s visit to the island continued with the turnover of the newly improved and rehabilitated Madridejos Community Waterworks System in Barangay Pili, which received a total allocation of P4.6 million. The Cebu Provincial Government installed a Level 3 water system designed to deliver clean, safe, and potable water directly to households through a new network of pipes.
“Daghang salamat ani, Gov. Water is life,” Madridejos Mayor Romeo Villaceran stated in the report, expressing gratitude. This water system project is anticipated to benefit hundreds of households, recognizing its vital impact on the sanitation, health and well-being of the local population.
The day concluded with the inauguration of the Lawisanon Mini Hotel and the newly upgraded Lawisanon Cafe, both located within the iconic Kota Park. The mini hotel, costing P7 million, and the upgraded café, valued at P1.27 million, were funded by the Cebu Provincial Government and provided to the local government unit (LGU) of Madridejos. These government-run facilities are managed and operated by the LGU of Madridejos and are set to enhance hospitality offerings while generating additional revenue for the town.
Also present at the ceremonies were Vice Gov.-elect Glenn Anthony Soco, Board Member Kerrie Keane Shimura, Bantayan Mayor Arthur Despi and Madridejos Vice Mayor Vincent Villacrusis.
Madridejos is the northernmost town of Cebu Province and the last town on Bantayan Island. Bantayan Island is a premier tourist destination for the province, attracting domestic and foreign visitors due to its pristine white sand beaches. / Julie Anne Sajetarios, Holy Name University intern