Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” L. Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) led the inauguration of four public infrastructure projects worth Php 90.89 million in Victorias City on Wednesday, November 11.
The projects were funded under the 2025 national budget and implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Negros Occidental 1st District Engineering Office, a press release from his office said Thursday.
The biggest is a Php 49.3-million project in Barangay XI (Gawahon). It consists of a 30-meter bridge and 226 meters of concrete road with slope protection at the crossing known as the Riverside Tison Overflow.
Residents said floodwater had spilled over the old crossing during heavy rain for 39 years, at times forcing them to wait hours before they could cross.
The DPWH said the new route will also benefit farmers and traders, as well as the neighboring barangays of San Isidro and Canlusong in EB Magalona.
Also in Barangay XI, a Php 7.89-million Multi-Purpose Building now serves as a base for troops of the 79th Infantry “Masaligan” Battalion.
Barangay officials said the facility is expected to improve security and emergency response for the barangay’s 3,201 residents.
In Barangay XIII, a Php 28.8-million Multi-Purpose Building and Cultural Center has a performance stage, a music room, and performer preparation rooms for local artists, students, and cultural groups.
In Barangay IV, the Php 4.89-million rehabilitation of Tun-ogan, also known as the Barbecue Plaza, converted the site into a concrete food hub with five sinks and three comfort rooms.
The projects are expected to give Victoriasanons safer passage during floods, closer security support, a dedicated venue for the arts, and steadier working conditions for small food vendors, the press release said. *
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