Governor Joet Garcia outlined key legislative priorities for the newly-convened Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) during its inaugural session held on July 7 at The Bunker in Balanga City.

In his address before the provincial board, Garcia called for a strong partnership between the executive and legislative branches of the provincial government and presented a wide range of policy directions aimed at improving infrastructure, governance, economic development, and social services.

Among the priorities he raised was the urgent need to further improve safety along the Roman Highway. Garcia proposed the passage of an ordinance mandating safety plans, signage, and lighting for roadworks and pedestrian lanes. He also emphasized stricter regulation of parking and commercial encroachments along the highway, and proposed the institutionalization of a Roman Highway LGU scorecard to ensure accountability among local stakeholders.

Garcia also floated the idea of establishing a provincial transportation department to manage inter-LGU transport concerns and suggested the installation of solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations at schools and barangay centers, especially in areas near solar farms.

On governance, the governor proposed the institutionalization of merit-based performance evaluation and strengthening of data integration through a centralized data system. He also urged the development of a provincial data center to support digital governance initiatives.

In terms of revenue generation, Garcia called for the revival of proposals such as a carbon tax and tighter regulations on quarry operations, while maintaining balance to avoid discouraging compliance.

He also advocated for the creation of innovation hubs to support tech startups and small businesses, leveraging incentives available within the Freeport Area of Bataan expansion zone.

Other initiatives include revisiting ordinances on anti-smoking and animal bite prevention, strengthening responsible pet ownership policies, and institutionalizing the EduChild parenting program to support child development.

Present in the session, presided by Vice Governor Cris Garcia are the newly-sworn members of the SP who will serve for the next three years:
First District:
• Hon. Jomar L. Gaza, J.D.
• Hon. Godofredo B. Galicia Jr.
• Hon. Mylene A. Serrano

Second District:
• Hon. Maria Margarita R. Roque
• Hon. Noel Joseph L. Valdecañas
• Hon. Victor A. Baluyot Jr.

Third District:
• Hon. Romano L. Del Rosario
• Hon. Jorge S. Estanislao
• Hon. Angelito M. Sunga
• Hon. Roman Harold R. Espeleta

Ex-Officio Members:
• Hon. Jovy Z. Banzon
• Hon. Feliciano G. Magay Jr.
• Hon. Romeo A. Austria
• Hon. Lovely Joy A. Poblete

The governor expressed confidence in the board’s ability to translate the said legislative priorities into impactful policies in delivering on the province’s development goals.

The post Gov. Garcia presents policy priorities to Bataan SP appeared first on 1Bataan.