MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The local chief executive of this city was elated and proud to look back on the endeavors he pushed in pursuit of alleviating the struggling living of his entire constituency. 

As he delivered his State of the City Address (SOCA), Mayor Majul Gandamra enumerated the social protection and health programs he sent forth since he was seated as the city’s father. 

He emphasized that leaders should see the necessities of their populace, especially the vulnerable members of the community, to secure genuine advancement in their place. 

“Ang isang progresibong bayan ay may malasakit sa mga nangangailangan kaya matagal na kaming nagsusumikap para matugunan ang kanilang mga pangangailangan,” said Gandamra. 

(A progressive city has compassion for the needy. That is why we are striving to address their needs.)

As such, the mayor detailed the strides made by the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD), including the fruitful implementation of the Social Pension Program, which has provided aid for indigent senior citizens through spearheading pay-outs and extensive validations to guarantee beneficiaries are indeed in need. 

Additionally, the same department has also put efforts into monitoring the grantees of the Bangsamoro Sagip Kabuhayan (BSK) Program to ensure the balance of empowerment and entrepreneurship. 

Gandamra also looked back at their commemoration of the National Children’s Month, wherein they showcased their commitment to shield the rights and welfare of the youth and their close collaboration with the International Organization for Migration to instill awareness in communities and finally end the issue of human trafficking. 

He further underlined their continuous and active enforcement of the national Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and other initiatives for elderly and disabled individuals to showcase sincere inclusivity in society. 

Here, Gandamra firmly urged the operating enterprises to extend their solicitude and effect the benefits for old and differently-abled citizens. 

“Kami ay nananawagan sa lahat ng business establishments na makiisa sa pagpapatupad at pagbibigay nitong mga pribilehiyo gaya ng pagbibigay ng discount sa mga gamot at basic commodity,” he said. 

(We are calling on all business establishments to be one in implementing and giving privileges such as giving discounts on medicines and basic commodities.)  

With only two years remaining in his term, Gandamra promised to keep putting the sake of his constituents first. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)