DAR opens 2 new Ecija bridges
PEŇARANDA, Nueva Ecija — The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) led by Secretary John R. Castriciones unveiled two new bridges worth a combined P14.11-million during simple ceremonies held here on Tuesday.
Castriciones said the construction of the twin bridges – the San Mariano-Barrio Militar and the Diwalaan bridges – was a collaborative effort between the DAR, Department of Public Works and Highways and the local government unit under the “President’s Bridge” program which is designed as a form of support services to agrarian reform beneficiaries in the locality.
Joining the DAR secretary during the blessing and ribbon-cutting of the San Mariano-Barrio Militar bridge which connects this town to Palayan City, the provincial capital were Nueva Ecija fourth district Rep. Maricel Natividad-Nagaño, Palayan City Mayor Adrianne Mae J. Cuevas, Vice Mayor Ofelia Manayao, DAR Usecs. Emily O. Padilla and Virgina Orogo, regional director Ma. Celestina Tam, PARPO Eden Ponio, Administrator Jing Abes, Bgy. Captain Lani Gonzales, and several local and barangay officials.
It was learned that some 566 agrarian reform beneficiaries tending some 1,621 hectares of government-distributed lands stand to benefit from the two bridge projects.
Castriciones said it was also projected to provide relief to at least 8,747 residents from barangays San Mariano, Las Piñas and Sinasajan in this town and those coming from Palayan City and neighboring areas.
He said the twin bridge projects will serve as a sort of “economic linkage” for local residents and farmers amid the pandemic.
Castriciones cited the importance of the farmers’ role in keeping food in every table especially during this health crisis.
