Bontoc, Mountain Province – -The new Bontoc Municipal Capitol makes every passer-by stop, look and admire the elegant structure and then take pictures with its facade as background.
The four-storey structure which now houses the local government’s offices was formally opened to the public during the inauguration and blessing on September 12, 2018. This was also highlighted by the unveiling of portraits of former mayors and incumbent municipal officials and artworks portraying the people of Bontoc and their life ways in the olden times which are now on the building’s halls and lobby.
The new municipal capitol can now comfortably accommodate more clients and visitors with wider rooms for the executive, the legislative body, and other municipal officials and employees. There is a separate civil wedding room, a multi-purpose hall at the top floor, and a parking area at the ground floor. Aside from these, it is also a client-friendly building with railings and ramps, and separate comfort rooms for the differently abled, senior citizens and those who are pregnant.
Speaking before almost a thousand people in the audience, Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey emphasized the Christian value of giving thanks to the Almighty after a great undertaking like the building of the town’s capitol which he said is an impossible dream come true.
Odsey said that the undertaking materialized because of the positive collaboration between the executive and legislative branches, and the support of the Bontoc community to the present administration. He likewise thanked the contractor, AIP Construction, for its good workmanship.
The mayor also clarified that the name Municipal Capitol was adopted considering that it is situated in this capital town of the province and that it is a seat of government.
Former Mayor Louis Claver Jr. (1980 to 1988 and 2001 to 2004), in his message delivered by son Councilor and Ex-Officio Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Alexandre Claver, said that he is one with the people of Bontoc in celebrating the occasion. Further, he encouraged everyone to support the present administration for the improvement not only of the municipal building, but in the development of the community and the lives of the constituents too.
Former Mayor David Yawan (1992 to 1998) stated that the inauguration and blessing of the municipal capitol is more than enough for the people of Bontoc to rejoice as it is a manifestation of progress. He also added that although he and other former mayors had been desirous of building a capitol such as what Bontoc has now, perhaps now is the time.
Similarly, Former Mayor Pascual A. Sacgaca (2010 to 2013) commended the officials for this undertaking. He added that with this new work place, it would surely motivate employees to render their best in public service.
Mountain Province Caretaker Congressman Allen Jesse C. Mangaoang who graced the occasion remarked that the new municipal capitol will not only cater to the people of Bontoc, but to visitors and tourists who will visit this capital town.
“Therefore, let us open the gates of this capitol not only to every I-fontok or I-Montayosa but more importantly, to every client and visitor in need of our assistance and hospitality,” Mangaoang added.
As he expressed happiness that the municipal government has gotten the right people for the project, Mangaoang urged the people of Bontoc to take part in the social responsibility of maintaining, caring for and protecting it.
In closing, he commended the officials in this capital town for working together for the good of the people.
“At the end of the day, it is still the human spirit that is most important. Money can improve a municipality’s physical environment, but it cannot buy the vision and passion that will ensure the continued development of Bontoc. Let us acknowledge the hard work of our leaders and every person who was instrumental and whose goodwill and industry has helped the town flourish despite many constraints,” Mangaoang emphasized.
It has been almost fifty years ago when the old Bontoc Town was constructed.**Alpine L. Killa , Bontoc –LGU
