Field Office IV-B (MIMAROPA)

Last May 3-4, 2012, the Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Project Management Office held a Local Government Units Forum to know the updates on sub-project implementation of the ten Makamasang Tugon municipalities. Implementation shall end on June 30, 2012.

The two-day activity gave way for the reporting of the status of sub-project implementation. Assistant Regional Director and Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Project Manager Annie Mendoza said that by June 30 this year, all sub-projects must be accomplished as it will also mark the end of implementation. This is in accordance to the directives of the Secretary. But prior to that, the closing of community accounts is slated to be on June 25, 2012, thus all funds must be fully utilized.

Rain pouring over a country where the heat at times is unbearable, is considered a gift to many people. To relieve and refresh themselves of the heat through the cold outpour and for economic and livelihood reasons are by far the two main reasons for their enjoyment. Not to mention the days wherein classes are suspended for kids, who are just as excited to play in puddles of water. While most people rejoice at the sight of rain,people of Barangay Bolo actually fear for their lives. This may sound a little over the top, but the mere sight of rain causes a paralyzing fear that only a few managed to get by.

Ligaya Valenzuela, the Barangay Sub-Project Management Committee Chairperson recounted an event, of which happened during her fourth year in high school, where rain had become the most impossible in the municipality of Torrijos. “It was raining heavily that day, it was a school day and I have to get to my class on time,” she narrated. Since the rain was hard, the road was flooded and there was no other way to pass by. The bark of a coconut tree which was sprawled along the road was the only means she can get to her school without having to step into the flood. But just as she was making her way carefully through the flooded road, she got carried away by the current. “I really don’t know what to do, I was with my aunt but she was also afraid that if she helped me, then both of us will be carried away,” said Ligaya. She noted that she tried to swim against the current but it was no use. She got swept away, finding herself at the foot of the trees. “I thought that was the end of my life,” she said teary-eyed.