By Mariela Angella Oladive
Uswag Ilonggo Party-list Representative James “Jojo” Ang spearheaded the turnover of a P10.5 million Pasalubong Center to the municipality of Leon, Iloilo on Wednesday, April 24.
According to Ang, one of the priority projects of Uswag Ilonggo in Leon is the establishment of the Pasalubong Center, recognizing its significance as a hub for tourists heading to Bucari, known as the “Little Baguio of Iloilo.”
The Pasalubong Center will display local products from the municipality and will also house the Local Government Unit’s (LGU) Tourism Office. This dual-purpose facility aims to boost tourism and support local businesses by providing a central location for visitors to explore and purchase regional goods.
Ang expressed his satisfaction with the contractor’s adherence to the design of the facility, particularly highlighting the design of the comfort rooms, which he believes will be well-received by tourists.
Aside from the Pasalubong Center, the party-list also facilitated an initial fund of P37 million for the construction of a multi-storey market and P5 million for the rehabilitation of the municipal plaza.
The ceremony was attended by key officials, including Mayor Malin Holipas, municipal officers, and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Holipas expressed profound gratitude for the significant projects provided by Representative Ang and other national officials, acknowledging their role in promoting growth and development in Leon.
The new Pasalubong Center is expected to attract tourists and support local industries, contributing to the overall economic growth of Leon.
In a separate event, Ang handed over a new multi-purpose building to the LGU of New Lucena, Iloilo.
Amounting P5 million, the newly constructed building will serve as the office for the Municipal Agriculture Office and a venue for gatherings related to agriculture, such as meetings for farmers and irrigation associations.
With the new facility, LGU-New Lucena, under the leadership of Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville, targets to provide a more comfortable and efficient workspace for its employees while supporting agricultural activities and community events.
Rep. Ang also announced his commitment to assisting in the renovation of the municipal covered gym in New Lucena, further demonstrating the Uswag Ilonggo Party-list’s dedication to enhancing local infrastructure and community services.
