LINGAYEN: The province of Pangasinan is poised to sustain its growth trajectory in 2024, with significant emphasis on infrastructure development, food security, and power supply. Governor Ramon Guico III, in a conversation with the Philippine News Agency, outlined the province's strategies and plans for the coming year.
According to Philippines News Agency, 2023 was a year marked by extensive planning, funding, and legal groundwork to facilitate various development projects. A notable project is the PHP34-billion Pangasinan Link Expressway project Phase 1, a joint venture and tollway concession agreement with San Miguel Holdings Corporation (SMHC), signed on October 19. This 42.76-kilometer expressway, expected to connect eastern and western parts of Pangasinan, is seen as a catalyst for enhanced transportation and tourism, and broader economic opportunities in the region.
The first phase of the expressway, with a four-year construction target, includes segments from Binalonan to Manaoag, Manaoag to Calasiao, and Calasiao to Lingayen. Once completed, it is expected to significantly reduce travel time within the province. The agreement also entitles Pangasinan to a 5 percent share in toll and commercial development revenues.
Another key project underway is the PHP800-million Bolinao Airport, with ongoing land acquisition efforts. The airport will initially feature a 1,500-meter runway, capable of accommodating aircraft like the Airbus A320, with plans for further expansion.
To attract more infrastructure investments, the province is considering the Joint Venture for Innovative Start-Up Ordinance measure. This proposal aims to involve private corporations and firms in developing infrastructure projects and services, offering a more inclusive approach compared to existing Private Public Partnership (PPP) and Joint Venture (JV) codes.
In the realm of food security, the provincial government, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, has initiated salt harvesting at the 473.8-hectare Pangasinan Salt Center in Bolinao. Approximately 33 metric tons of salt were harvested from December 21 to 29, with a production target of 15,000 to 20,000 metric tons in the next cycle.
The government's corporate farming program aims to boost rice, corn, and high-value crop production. This initiative involves partnerships with private entities and farmer associations, providing high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and mechanization support. The program also extends to the fishery sector, with distribution of equipment and skills training for farmers.
In the medical sector, the province's 14 government-run hospitals received a PHP287-million subsidy for medical assistance to indigent and financially incapacitated residents. This funding is part of the Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) program.
On the renewable energy front, Pangasinan is targeting a solar power capacity of 1.5 gigawatts by 2025. Several renewable energy companies have been granted permits to construct solar farms in the province, including projects in San Manuel, Sual, Bugallon, and Aguilar.
These initiatives reflect Pangasinan's commitment to fostering economic development, enhancing infrastructure, ensuring food security, and embracing renewable energy as key drivers of its growth in 2024 and beyond.