Conflict affected community of Bagtayan, Pasil given attention; needed development projects discussed

Pasil, Kalinga – The Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC)-Kalinga continues its efforts in identifying and addressing the bigger needs of far-flung and conflict-affected communities in the province.

On Tuesday, March 19, the task force led by Governor James Edduba went as far as Barangay Bagtayan, one of the far-flung barangays in Pasil to deliver services as well as knowing from the community their dire needs.

The identification of needed development projects is done through the review of the Barangay Development Plan (BDP) of the barangay, where priority programs, projects and activities are listed.

“…this is an approach to address the root causes of insurgency such as "hunger, disease, poverty, injustice and hopelessness" so that the communities would be less susceptible to fall under the influence of the communist insurgents,” wrote the provincial local government unit.

During the convening, the community asked for paved roads, irrigation projects, and livelihood projects, among other projects and assistance needed in their community.

As a response, members of the task force assured their commitment to looking for means to provide them with what they need.

Aside from the community consultation held, residents of Bagtayan also availed of free services by the task force, particularly the personnel of DOH-Kalinga, RHU-Pasil, PNP and AFP. Services offered were free medical consultation, dental services, haircut, bloodletting, and circumcision of young boys.

In a statement, Governor Edduba expressed gratefulness to the people of Bagtayan and their officials for actively participating in the consultation.

He likewise conveyed his gratitude to municipal officials of Pasil, PNP, AFP, BFP, various national line agencies and the office of the congressman for their support and contribution to the goal of achieving lasting peace and progress through the program.