Mayor Greg Gasataya led the review and signing of documents Nov. 3 for the release of the barangays’ Annual Investment Program (AIP) allocations, at the General Services Office (GSO) Conference Room, Plaza Bacolod.
The activity follows an earlier validation and review Oct. 30, where the mayor proposed projects and budget allocations of seven barangays to ensure that these aligned with community priorities before the documents were processed for release.
He encouraged barangays to include solar-powered streetlights in their AIPs — especially in dimly lit areas and key locations that need better visibility. He pointed out that solar lighting would not only improve safety but also help bring down electricity costs amid rising power rates.
For barangays planning to install CCTV cameras, the mayor recommended that these be connected to the City Command Center, enabling real-time monitoring and strengthening public safety across communities.
Gasataya also listened to concerns raised by barangay officials, including issues on drainage, garbage collection, and other matters requiring coordination with city offices.
He called on barangays to support the upcoming Batang Pinoy National Championships, set for Dec. 12-18, in the city. The mayor asked them to help identify schools that could serve as billeting centers for visiting athletes and their guardians, and to deploy additional barangay tanods to help maintain peace and order throughout the sporting event.
Around 35,894 delegates — including 27,763 athletes, 6,144 coaches, and 1,987 officials — representing 207 local government units nationwide are expected in Bacolod for Batang Pinoy, the city said in a press release.
With 30 sports disciplines and 43 schools serving as billeting centers, the competition will give a major boost to local businesses in accommodation, food, transportation, and tourism across the highly-urbanized city. ||
