by Jennifer B. Pena

BUTUAN CITY (November 28) -- The city government here through Mayor Democrito Plaza II is intensifying health program that will surely benefit the poor, which is also a priority program of the Arroyo administration particularly on health care development and poverty alleviation.

During his visit at Barangay Pigdaulan recently, the city's chief executive informed the residents that their barangay is one of the beneficiaries of health care services that will address the people's needs especially those who cannot afford to buy medicines and engage in other health-related activities.

Among the services rendered by the city government are medical and dental check-up, physical therapy for the elders, circumcision, and distribution of PhilHealth cards.

During the visit, Mayor Plaza also awarded certificates of land title to residents of the said barangay and a mass wedding was also conducted to give couples a chance to exchange their marriage vows through legal means.

In his message, Mayor Plaza said that one of the priority programs under his administration is to see to it that majority of the Butuanons will be able to avail of free health-related and any other services. "In this case, a healthy environment will lead to a sustainable development of the country", he said.

Mayor Plaza added that several services are still in-line and soon to be implemented. To address concerns on basic education, Plaza said additional four teachers will be assigned to Pigdaulan National High School to address the demand on the lack of high school teachers in the area. Another is a covered court as a venue for the people to showcase their talents and as an entertainment haven of Barangay Pigdaulan.

Mayor Plaza also said that barangay cemetery is included in the plan as well as gravelling and leveling of roads to address the problem in terms of flood and soil erosion.

When asked when is the implementation of the projects, Plaza assured the public that these will be put in place before May 2007 election.