DE makes Strong & Vibrant Statement thru Enhanced Frontage

by Tessie K. Iso & Marciano A. Paroy Jr.

With the commitment of District Engineer Ireneo S. Gallato to actively enforce the
Regional Directors inclination to the DPWH program on enhancement & beautification
of public areas that can be readily accessible to the general public, the stretch of vacant
lot fronting the District Office leading up to the area that sits idle in front of the Girl
Scouts of the Philippines has recently commenced being enhanced.
The general public that can see the visual improvements being made comprises
of college students and employees at the adjacent Kalinga-Apayao State College, other
employees from different government offices within the vicinity, and residents in the
area surrounding the District Office. As can be gauged in the on-going beautification
initiative, the public will be visually treated to a refreshing array of ornamental plants that
follow a landscaping design.
While this initiative will cater to the aesthetic touches that the program advocates,
this is likewise a strategy that points to the prevention of any encroachment or squatting
acts that have been committed by illegal settlers in other public lands.
In effect, we are somewhat declaring that we own this area and were guarding
it, DE Gallato remarked. but were making that statement in a subtle and cheerful
manner, hence the colourful changes.
In addition to the above-mentioned inputs, a kiosk made of nipa had been set up
in the area to further give the feel of a park where people can drop by and take shelter.
DE Gallato adds We already see how people respond to this initiative through the daylong occupancy of the kiosk by various groups of people, from drivers to students for
their momentary rest.
The stretch had been extended as well up to the Girl Scouts frontage to further
set the parameters that should remain free from any illegally set-up constructions
temporary or otherwise. As a representation of a Kalinga natural landmark, a scaled
down replica of the Sleeping Beauty Mountasin of Tinglayan will be landscaped as well
in front of the Area Equipment Services Office that is sandwiched between GSP and the
District Office. Coinciding with the project is the complementary clean-up drive that shall
be sustained even after the current beautification project has been completed.
This currently implemented project reflects the dedication of the present
leadership of the District Engineer to measure up to the stringent standards set by the
agency, and so far, the initiative can be summed up to be what else beautiful.