MARAWI CITY--The Ministry of Public Works (MPW) has infused P576 million worth of heavy equipment and vehicles into the nine District Engineering Offices (DEOs) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The turnover ceremony, headed by MPW Minister Archt. Eduard Guerra occurred on January 25 at the MPW Area Equipment Services in Barangay Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.

The allocation includes 14 service vehicles (4X4 pick-up trucks), 17 dump trucks (4X4), two sewage trucks, and one prime mover with a low-bed trailer, all handed over to the DEOs.

Minister Guerra highlighted that the acquisition of these heavy equipment and vehicles aims to streamline maintenance activities and elevate the execution of high-quality infrastructure projects.

Additionally, these resources will play a crucial role in responding swiftly to calamities and disasters, contributing to the sustainable development of the region.

"I really fought for the purchase of these units of equipment amounting to P576 million, marami pa itong kasunod (there's more to come)," Minister Guerra affirmed, underlining his dedication to securing further acquisitions.

The sewage trucks, specifically procured for drainage declogging, are anticipated to address persistent flooding issues in the region, particularly in Cotabato City and Jolo, Sulu.

"This acquisition is a step towards enhancing our organizational mobility, enabling us to better serve the community and fulfill our mission, especially in the implementation of infrastructure projects in the BARMM region," said MPW Director General Danilo Ong.

District Engineers from various DEOs expressed satisfaction with the new assets, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance for their longevity. District Engineer Ajijul of Sulu 1st DEO said, "Maligaya po kami na nabigyan ng brand new, kasi itong brand new kung maganda lang ang pag-maintain mahirap ito masira. Kahit 'yung previous na binigay sa amin hanggang ngayon hindi pa rin nasisira," he said.

[We are delighted to receive brand new equipment. With proper maintenance, these new assets can withstand the test of time. Even the previous equipment provided to us is still in good condition.]

Other District Engineers who received the new assets were Kasim Hasanin of Basilan DEO, Engineer Avila Abobakar of Maguindanao 1st DEO, Emran Buisan of Maguindanao 2nd DEO, Abolcair Langilao of Lanao del Sur 1st DEO, Maldamin Decampong of Lanao del Sur 2nd DEO, Az-zamier Arbison of Sulu 2nd DEO, Borris-Zanzibar Kadil of Tawi-Tawi DEO, and Rasul Piang of Cotabato City DEO. (BIO/PIA Lanao del Sur)