ILIGAN CITY (PIA)--With determination to lead Iligan City towards a brighter future, Mayor Frederick Siao delivered his State of Iligan City Address (SOICA), emphasizing the need for collaboration, innovation, and integrity.

Focusing on transparency, accountability, and collaboration, Siao emphasized that citizen engagement is vital for the city's progress.

"Magpadayon kita sa pagtinabangay, uban ang determinasyon ug dili matarug nga pasalig, aron mahimo ang Iligan City nga labing maayo. (Let us continue to collaborate with determination and unwavering trust, so we can make Iligan City the best it can be). The best is yet to come for Iligan City, and together, we will make it a reality," he said.

The adoption of the Iligan Development Goals (IDGs), which draw inspiration from the UN Sustainable Development Goals, is one of the pillars of Siao's agenda. These goals provide a roadmap for the city's future, encompassing various sectors, from economic growth to environmental protection.

Economic and agricultural triumphs

Siao unveiled impressive economic achievements for the city, such as major establishments like KCC Mall, SM Mall, Wilcon Depot, hotels, convention centers, and restaurants that will not only boost the local economy but will also generate countless job opportunities for the residents.

The city government has also achieved significant milestones in promoting a robust agricultural industry and rural development as it has funded road and agricultural projects, organized summits for coffee, coconut, and abaca farmers, provided organic fertilizers and seedlings to farmers, and developed vast areas for various crops, benefiting thousands of farmers.

Other accomplishments include establishing agricultural research and training centers, dairy processing facilities, and supporting livestock raisers through vaccinations and assistance programs.

Digital revolution 

Iligan is also recognized as one of the most proactive digital cities and has adopted strategies for digitalization. The city government has implemented various Information and Communications Technology (ICT) initiatives, such as using official email for communications, paperless transactions, and developing the ICT industry for skills development.

"Ning bag-o lang, ang ASEAN Smart Cities Council, gikonsidera ang Iligan isip potential Smart City sa ASEAN Region. And we will be mentored by no less than the Executive Director for ASEAN based in Singapore KC Tay sa atong mga ICT initiatives, who will be coming to Iligan in August in partnership with MSU-IIT and DOST," he said.

(Recently, the ASEAN Smart Cities Council considered Iligan as a potential Smart City in the ASEAN Region. We will receive mentorship from none other than the Executive Director for ASEAN based in Singapore, KC Tay, for our ICT initiatives. This partnership will take place in August, in collaboration with MSU-IIT and DOST)

Enhancing health and uplifting lives

Significant milestones have been achieved in improving health services and pandemic response in Iligan. The city government has expanded and strengthened its health programs and efforts to reduce stunting in children and recognize tuberculosis control.

The city has also excelled in vaccination campaigns and HIV/AIDS prevention and has invested in upgrading healthcare facilities and technologies, such as the Hospital Information Management System and new medical equipment like the CT Scan, to provide better and more advanced services to its residents.

Various programs to alleviate poverty and support marginalized communities have been implemented. Initiatives include the "Friends Working Together for Shelter" program to provide safe housing for those in need, livelihood support programs for cooperatives and women, poverty mapping to prioritize interventions, and e-commerce platforms to empower marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities and solo parents.

The city has also focused on senior citizens, with both national and local social pension payouts to support the indigent elderly population.

Moreover, Serbisyo Iliganon Caravan and Oplan Bisita have benefited thousands of individuals in 17 barangays, promoting the well-being of bedridden and vulnerable patients.

Embracing the future

Under the visionary leadership of the Siao-Alemania Administration, the City is embarking on a promising journey towards a brighter future. Plans include the implementation of AI-capable CCTV and a Command Center, a modern Wet Park with improved water management, and transforming the Wet Market into a bustling Market Mall.

Preservation of historical landmarks, such as the City Hall complex, will be balanced with modernization. Additionally, the administration envisions a Convention Center and Sports Complex, improved transportation networks with more farm-to-market roads and highways, and the development of eco parks and sustainable tourist destinations, including the Mt. Agad-Agad Faith Tourism and Eco Park, Bayug Island Development, Tinago Infra Development, and more.

Emphasizing inclusivity, the administration aims to boost micro, small, and medium enterprises and creative industries, ensuring prosperity, harmony, and a better future for the residents. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)