By Connie Calipay
LEGAZPI CITY – The provincial government of Albay has reported a significant increase in quarry revenues, which will be used to fund more programs for communities.
In her “Ulat sa Albay” report marking her first 100 days in office, Acting Governor Glenda Ong Bongao said that revenue for December exceeded PHP9 million, a 100-percent increase from the November figure.
Bongao highlighted four major programs funded by the quarry revenue to help enhance social services for the province’s residents.
The “Graba para sa Eskwela” (Gravel for Schools) is a scholarship program offering educational assistance to deserving students in Albay; the “Basud para sa Salud” is a medical assistance program designed to address the healthcare needs of low-income Albayanos; the “Baybay para sa Kabuhayan” is a livelihood program aimed at supporting marginalized sectors by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities; and the “Boulders para sa mga Albayano Elders” is a cash incentive program for nonagenarians.
Bongao said the cash incentives for senior citizens will soon be distributed. Albayanos aged 90 to 94 will receive PHP10,000 each, while those aged 95 to 99 will each receive PHP20,000.
“I envisioned that through these programs, we can redirect the purpose of quarry revenues and make these funds more accessible to Albayanos,” she said.
To address environmental concerns, Bongao issued Executive Order No. 58, 2024, which established the Albay Mining Regulatory Board, led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
Along with various stakeholders, it will oversee all quarry-related issues and concerns, including the screening of concessionaire applications.
Bongao stressed the Board aims for stricter regulation of quarry operations in Albay to protect the environment and prevent illegal quarrying. Increased revenue from legitimate operations will support much-needed programs for Albayanos, she added. She also expressed hope the next administration would prioritize the programs.
She also reported various accomplishments, including responsive disaster management during Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in October last year, visits from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and improvements in social services, medical and health services, education programs, and agricultural sectors.
Bongao thanked the provincial employees, saying the provincial government is in capable hands not just because of its leaders, but also because of the hard work and dedication of its employees.
“They are the backbone of our local governance. Without them, no matter how good a leader may be, effective leadership cannot succeed,” she added. (PNA)