The provincial government is planning to establish what it calls as Animal Health Centers in Negros Occidental’s six congressional districts.
Provincial Veterinarian Renate Decena said the construction of the AHCs is a go since it was approved last year by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the Provincial Development Council.
The budget will be taken from the 20% Development Fund for the construction projects that will cost each P1.5 million.
The Animal Health Centers will be built in San Carlos City, Manapla, E.B. Magalona, San Enrique, Hinigaran and Cauayan.
Decena said the district center will harmonize the functions of city and municipal veterinarians in implementing the program of the province, and this will not duplicate the work of the PVO since there is a separate district veterinarian.
This will allow district officials like the congressmen and the Provincial Board members to be involved in the development of the animal industry in their areas.
They will also be part in finding solutions for any concern should there be any, he said.
The AHC will serve as a permanent structure of the existing district field units of PVO, which is tasked to first address related concerns at the municipal and city levels.
If the district veterinarian cannot solve it, then the PVO steps in, he explained.
The AHC will also be involved in animal rescue, including wild life and stray dogs.
The engineering and designs as well as the program of work are now with the Provincial Engineer’s Office and the projects are up for bidding, Decena said.
The construction is expected to start in the second quarter of this year, he added.
The centers are expected to be operational by third quarter of 2021. – MML
