SECOND District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez's tireless efforts have led to significant achievements in securing a substantial budget for various programs and projects that will greatly benefit Cagayan de Oro City.
Thus, Rodriguez stated that during the fiscal year 2024 budget hearings in the House of Representatives, he was able to secure a total of P5,280,752,000 in funding from different national government departments.
A significant portion of the allocated budget, amounting to P4.129 billion, has been dedicated to infrastructure projects.
"These projects will be implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)," said Rodriguez aiming to improve the city's transportation networks and enhance public infrastructure.
Recognizing the importance of agriculture, Rodriguez has also secured funds for irrigation projects.
The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has earmarked P120 million for this purpose.
Additionally, P30 million has been designated for the construction of a fish port under the Philippine Fisheries and Development Authority (PFDA), supporting the local fishing industry.
Education is also a priority for Rodriguez, as evidenced by the funding he has successfully secured.
The Department of Education (DepEd) has allocated P120 million for the construction of 48 new classrooms.
Furthermore, P180 million has been obtained for flood control projects from the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), while the Department of Health (DOH) will provide P60 million to establish health centers in different barangays.
Rodriguez's commitment to education extends beyond basic schooling.
He has managed to secure a total of P45 million for various courses under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
An additional P15 million has also been added to the 2023 budget for this purpose.
Moreover, P3 million in scholarships have been obtained from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to support Indigenous students pursuing their education.
To promote livelihood programs, Rodriguez has worked closely with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to secure funds amounting to P20 million.
The DTI has also pledged an additional P10 million to reinforce these programs in 2023.
Also, the DTI will contribute P35 million for the enhancement of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines' (USTP) food innovation center, packaging and labeling center, and data science and technological innovation center.
Recognizing the importance of emergency employment, Rodriguez has secured P13 million for 2023 to support programs such as TUPAD, GIP, and DILP.
Rodriguez said that In the following year, an even greater amount of P25 million has been designated for these programs.
Support for local farmers is evident with the Department of Agriculture (DA) pledging funds amounting to P6.5 million for various seedlings.
Through the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), P500,000 has been allocated for coconut seedlings, and the National Dairy Authority (NDA) has contributed P25 million for the procurement of imported cattle and goats.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has also recognized the importance of technological advancements, according to Rodriguez.
An additional P4.5 million has been allocated for 2023, with specific utilization in portable solar dryers, small enterprise technology upgrading programs, and community empowerment through science and technology.
"In 2024, the DOST will allocate P18 million for various science and technology initiatives," said Rodriguez.
Rodriguez's commitment to the local fisherfolk is evident in the P35 million secured for the establishment of a marine hatchery in Barangay Cugman.
Additionally, 50 reinforced fiberglass fishing boats with marine engines, valued at P5 million, will be acquired from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
Ensuring the safety and security of the community, Rodriguez has obtained funds from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFAR).
This includes P6 million for the acquisition of two brand new firetrucks, P1 million for a prisoner van, and P2 million for two police cars through the Philippine National Police (PNP).
"These measures will contribute to maintaining peace and order in the district;" he said.
Recognizing the need for improved transportation systems, Rodriguez has also successfully secured P30 million from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for the feasibility study of an elevated light rail transit system in Cagayan de Oro City.
Moreover, an allocation of P100 million has been designated for the Mindanao Rail Phase III, which will connect various cities and locations within the region.
Through his dedication and effective representation, Rodriguez has secured significant funding for infrastructural development, education, livelihood programs, agricultural improvements, technological advancements, and transportation enhancements.
"These accomplishments will undoubtedly contribute to the overall progress and prosperity of Cagayan de Oro in the coming years," Rodriguez said.
