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Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III joined Apayao in marking its 31st Founding Anniversary and expressed support for the province’s continuing push for infrastructure and agricultural development.
Fresh from a series of engagements and set to leave for Paris, France to finalize a funding agreement for bridge projects in the country, Estrella made time to visit Apayao and assess developments on the ground.
He cited the province’s expanding facilities, including its sports complex and centralized government offices, describing them as strong indicators of steady growth even in a geographically remote area.
In a discussion with Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr., Estrella took note of the ongoing Apayao Coliseum project and said he would recommend to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the release of funds for its completion, adding that yApayaos are determined to position the province among the premier provinces in the Cordillera.
He also commended local officials for mounting large-scale events that drive economic activity and bring people into the province. “Perhaps one of these days, you may even host national sports competitions, which will further contribute to your economy. Having government offices here will also prime economic growth,” he said.
At the same time, Estrella stressed that infrastructure must go hand in hand with rural development. “While we have succeeded in infrastructure, we will also succeed in improving greatly the lives of farmers, the agrarian reform beneficiaries of the Province of Apayao,” he said.
He pointed to unity among local leaders and communities as a defining strength of the province. “Because of your cooperation, perhaps one day you will have a city here,” he added.
The Secretary also announced the rollout of the VISTA program, a foreign-funded initiative under DAR that will focus on coffee and cacao development, farm-to-market roads, training support, and institutional strengthening. He said Apayao is set to receive the first release of VISTA funds this year.
