By Ralph John Mijares and Edalyn Acta
ROXAS CITY – Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Capiz has approved the resolution allowing the lot donation for the convention center project on the third and final reading during their regular session on February 2.
The two-hectare lot was donated by the Ong family who owned Pueblo de Panay where the convention center would be constructed.
The SP wanted the lot donation for the project to proceed but the provincial board has to address the concern of the two Viterbo sisters who own a part of the Pueblo de Panay regarding their joint venture deal with the Ongs, Board Member Eleuper Martinez said.
The Viterbos were concerned about the road heading to the convention center, and the proposed bridge to be constructed on their property.
Later, both were able to settle the matter considering there was another road heading to the future location of the convention center, Martinez said.
“Ginaubra man lang namon ang amon trabaho. Wala kami nagabalakid or nagadelay…ginaprotekta lang namon ang interes sang probinsya,” Martinez said.
Governor Esteban Evan Contreras said he understands that the SP has to do their job as he was also part of the board for 15 years, being a vice governor and a board member.
The national government has provided P250 million for the first phase of the convention center.
Contreras said that his budget request was approved last December, citing the economic development for the province once the project will be completed.
The governor added that he will follow up on the additional funding for the project.
“Guincommitan kita nga basi pasudlan kita pundo this year. Ihabol nila para ibulig sa provincial government. Ginabakasan ta guid nga mangita sang resources para magnami aton probinsya,” Contreras said.*
