The City of Koronadal is venturing its way to becoming a smart, green city in Soccsksargen.

In his recent State of the City Address (SOCA), Koronadal City Mayor Eliordo Ogena boasted the city government’s key investments focusing on infrastructure, cleanliness, and beautification, as well as connectivity.

"My people, I stand before you with a vision that is bold, exciting, and ambitious. Wala man tayong dagat at sariling [Though we don’t have our seas and our own] airport, but I will make Koronadal connected to the world. We will have every opportunity to make our city a green, smart city and tech hub. I am confident that we have the capacity and components needed to make this happen," Mayor Ogena said.

He explained that the investments are designed to improve the quality of life of its residents and make it more attractive to business communities.

Laying the Framework for Infrastructure Development

Among the most notable accomplishments of the Ogena administration to date are the various construction projects seen throughout the city.

Mayor Ogena reported that for the year 2022 up to the first semester of 2023, the city government has already allotted over P594.6 million for various infrastructure projects.

“Our major infrastructure projects have been the focus of the Bagong Koronadal administration since day one. When we build roads, bridges, and drainage systems, we are creating jobs, providing a boost to families and businesses,” he said.

These infrastructure projects including the improvement of road networks, bridges, drainages, and installation of traffic lights paved the way for implementing the city’s local public transport route plan, aimed at establishing efficient and hassle-free means of transportation.

As the Soccsksargen’s regional center, the local government unit of Koronadal is keen on pushing for projects that are inclusive and responsive to the needs not only of its residents but also those who work and do business in the city.

The ongoing construction of the 3-storey public market promises an array of opportunities for the community. Once operational, it would offer local vendors and entrepreneurs an enhanced platform to showcase their products, ensuring economic growth and increased opportunities.

"Improving our city’s infrastructure is essentially saying, ‘We are ready for the future.’ Come, grow with us," Ogena urged prospective stakeholders.

Cleanliness, Greening, and Beautification Initiatives

Anchored on his 10-point agenda, Mayor Ogena enjoined Koronadaleños to continue to be united to achieve their goal of being a progressive, safe, environment-friendly, garbage-free, and beautifully landscaped green city where all communities are competitive, resilient, and empowered.

"One of my personal favorites would be the 270 crown-inspired decorative lights na makikita natin all year round sa kahabaan ng [that we can see all year round along] Gensan Drive."

This simple idea, Ogena emphasized, has become a part of the city’s nightly attractions.

He also cited that the city government will soon start the construction of the new Koronadal City welcome arch in Brgy. Palian.

Ogena explained that this modern arch is a very fitting reception for visitors entering the city, as it will capture the attention of all commuters passing by.

As the city gears toward its goal of becoming a smart and green city, it is fully committed to practicing responsible waste management, reducing pollution as well as mitigating climate change.

Earlier this month, the Koronadal City Plastic Recycling Facility was launched in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization and the Environmental Management Bureau.The partnership aims to convert bottles and other plastic waste into eco-bricks, plastic armchairs, plastic board, bricks, hollow blocks, plant boxes, and other materials.

The local chief executive said that they are eyeing this to boost the income of the communities while prioritizing their health and well-being.

Digital connectivity

In terms of keeping up with the advancement of technology, the Sangguniang Panlungsod recently enacted an ordinance creating the Information and Technology Council to expedite the local government’s efforts to revolutionize digital connectivity in the area.

They also aspire to collaborate with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to work toward its goal of becoming a smart, digital city.

"We have already taken significant steps towards realizing this vision," said Ogena, emphasizing that they are small, steady steps but sure to reach the goal.

In July, Mayor Ogena announced that the city government provided internet access to indigenous communities with Starlink, a satellite internet service developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

Ogena revealed that the LGU allotted P500,000 for Phase I of the Starlink Project, providing free internet connectivity, especially to underserved and remote areas.

"Expect that in the next few months, Phase 1 of the Koronadal Starlink Project will install Starlink devices across our 27 barangays, starting with our 12 indigenous communities towards the city center, along with the Public Market, Public Terminal, Rizal Park, Regional Center, and City Hall," Mayor Ogena expressed.

He added that with free high-speed internet, the city government can empower every barangay and improve people’s lives by enabling them to access faster and more efficient public services, online jobs, healthcare, and the various education and information efforts of the government.

The mayor also stressed the importance of unity and cooperation in the realization of these goals. “While we lay the foundation for a more connected, efficient, and innovative city, we also need the participation and support of all our citizens, our businesses, and our communities. Let us be a shining example of persistent progress by making Koronadal the first green smart city and tech hub in South Cotabato,” Ogena noted.

The mayor also cited the benefits of these projects that are already being felt in Koronadal City.

"Our acceleration to progress is unstoppable. Tuloy-tuloy tayo hanggang makamit natin lahat ng ito [Our development strides are continuous until we will achieve all these]."

Based on the local government’s record on business registrations, the city is becoming more attractive to businesses, and its residents are enjoying a better quality of life as the city government continues to invest in infrastructure, making its way to becoming a smart, green city in south-central Mindanao. (ORVR – PIA South Cotabato)