ALFONSO LISTA, IFUGAO- – A day care center for learners is a worthy investment. When the time came to pursue that dream, those seeking for one at Barangay Potia in Alfonso Lista would not be denied.
In an exclusive interview with the ZigZag Weekly, Punong Barangay Tony Lubbong asserted that the day care is essential in molding the youth to become responsible.
“The Barangay Council of Potia, therefore, is considering timely, proper and correct the construction of a new day care center,” he said.
Villagers surely could claim that one fundamental truth about the present one that is obsolete.
In other words, they truly deserve a better deal. And it is a highly dedicated village chieftain like Punong Barangay Lubbong, one who cares for their wellbeing, who points out these facts.
More than just a place to learn and interact with others, a day care center planned here should be a vibrant and thoughtfully planned kid’s hub, offering a conducive environment.
And so, the need for it obviously arises.
For rural Philippines, the flaws in the day care system are noticeably alarming: outdated facilities and underpaid mentors. If all day care center teachers are receiving meager salaries, then surely all must be able to understand its repercussions. Think about the welfare of children if they don’t have teachers.
No matter how much and how loud apologists are talking, however, neglect and ineptness in high places persist in the maintenance of day care centers. One marvels at the hypocrisy and ignorance of those who downplay the importance of a day care center in rural areas. A day care center provides life-long learning opportunities for children.
Lubbong has effectively pushed the idea of replacing the village’s current one as well as promoting the education sector. Once operational, the project will help compliment the village’s distinction as: Educational Center of Alfonso Lista, since several institutions are situated here, including Ifugao State University (IFSU) Potia Campus.
Further, Lubbong is preparing necessary papers for the proposed project. The barangay council is completing paper works, meaning, to start with a barangay resolution because that should be studied closely by the government- in this case reportedly by the Senate. In turn, the senator shall assess how viable is the project.
Also, the requesting party is completing project costs study. It is one of the bases in preparing the terms of the program of works. Thus, said party can seek provision of funds thereof.
The planned day care center, if achieved with congressional blessing shall set Punong Barangay Lubbong apart from the rest by transforming the young into productive members of society. This plan bears witness to the kind of far-reaching visionary leadership of a grassroots leader like him in this part of the province.
If well-meaning barangay council officials like Lubbong, continue to build infrastructure that enable people to prosper, barangay officials shall continue to be among Ifugao’s outstanding leaders. That is the only duty of the punong barangay that can’t be better done in the Barangay Potia.
So while Lubbong worked hard to serve his constituents, his colleagues at the barangay government are optimistic of accomplishing their goal. Meanwhile, a kagawad (councilman) said: “We are excited to have this one and feel the experience that a new day care offers”, another added, “Our prayers for a day care center for children to grow in a safe, nurturing environment”.
Only a good understanding of the commitment to serve the people can so thoroughly explain what is happening at Barangay Potia” We will reciprocate the people’s confidence by delivering on social services,” Lubbong explained. **By Anthony A. Araos
