TACLOBAN CITY – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Leyte approved the annual investment plan (AIP) for 2025 on Tuesday, September 10, with a total budget allocation of P10.06 billion.
Board Member Carlo Loreto of Leyte’s 5th district highlighted the approval as a significant milestone for the province, paving the way for crucial development projects and initiatives in the coming year.
Loreto explained that the 2025 AIP, which is lower compared to the current’s P13.46 billion, covers a broad range of budgetary priorities aimed at enhancing Leyte’s infrastructure and services.
AIP is a comprehensive document that outlines the proposed development projects, programs, and expenditures for a local government unit (LGU) for a specific year.
It serves as a financial and strategic plan that allocates resources to priority areas such as infrastructure, social services, economic development, and disaster preparedness.
Key areas include road development, slope protection measures, bridge construction, water system improvements, upgrades to hospital facilities, school building construction, social service provision, and disaster preparedness equipment acquisition.
“These strategic investments underscore the provincial government’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth, improving public services, and ensuring the welfare and safety of Leyteños,” Loreto emphasized.
The board member also stressed the importance of road infrastructure funding, noting that enhanced road networks will improve connectivity and accessibility across Leyte.
In addition to smoother transportation, this will stimulate economic activities, promote tourism, and create employment opportunities for local residents.
The focus on slope protection and bridge construction reflects the government’s dedication to boosting safety and resilience against natural disasters like landslides and floods, he added.
Loreto further noted that investments in water systems and hospital facilities underscore the province’s commitment to essential public services.
Access to clean, reliable water is vital for promoting public health, while enhanced hospital facilities will ensure residents have access to quality healthcare services when needed.
He also emphasized the allocation of funds for school buildings and social services, reinforcing the government’s dedication to education and social welfare.
By improving educational facilities, the province aims to provide better learning environments and access to quality education.
Meanwhile, investments in social services will support marginalized communities, promote social equity, and address the needs of vulnerable populations.
Lastly, Loreto pointed out the inclusion of disaster preparedness equipment in the AIP, highlighting the government’s proactive approach to enhancing resilience and emergency response capabilities.
This investment aims to mitigate the impacts of natural calamities, protect lives and properties, and ensure swift, effective crisis responses.
“The approval of the AIP for 2025 is a significant milestone for Leyte, laying out a strategic roadmap for sustainable development and improved quality of life for all Leyteños,” Loreto concluded.
“The comprehensive allocation of resources for infrastructure, services, and disaster preparedness demonstrates our commitment to promoting growth, resilience, and the well-being of our people.”
(ROEL T. AMAZONA/LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
