The “new normal” brought about by the Corona Virus pandemic calls for the government officials of Mayaoyao to prioritize improving the lives of the people. Concerned town folks request that immediate attention be given to the needs of the poor as it would serve their interests as well.
Mayoyao is a fourth-class municipality in the province’s second geographical district. Farming is still the main industry. However, before the pandemic struck. tourism was vibrant. Mayaoyao was called the cultural tourism hub of Ifugao. Many people found employment in the tourism industry supplementing their income from farming. Cultural events were held in all the 27 villages with all the people cooperating and helping out with their suggestions and opinions. The present crisis has put a stop to all these activities. The economy has been crippled impacting the daily lives of the people.
The annual Lenong Festival had to be cancelled but this has not dampened the optimism of the local government officials for a better economy. Under the leadership of Mayor Jimmy Padchanan Jr., local officials are now focusing their efforts on reducing poverty among their people. Mayor Padchanan has initiated many programs to improve the living conditions in remote and underserved areas in this municipality since he assumed office in 2019.
He is not stopping. His initial efforts have harnessed the potential of the people. Mayaoyao has attractive demographics for agriculture and tourism. Most of its people are young. Mayor Padchachan is providing a strong leadership. He has the support of Vice Mayor Rudy Chilagan Jr, the members of the Sangguniang Bayan: Ambrocio Powoc, Eugene Lim-ang, Feir Baichon, Marie Cris Nachegpan, Hermoso Bimmotag Jr., Antonio Bangachon Jr., Pedro Acapen Sr. and Myra Faith Lumayna, the indigenous people’s mandatory representative (IPMR) Atty. Joan Sheelah Naliw, ABC president Sammy Chang-agan,
But the municipal government has limited resources. The national and provincial governments have to provide the needed funds for infrastructure. Roads, schools, health centers and day care centers are vital to alleviate the lives of the people. Congressman Chungalao has committed to further upgrade the farming sector through the provision of farm-to-market roads, irrigation systems and post-harvest facilities.
Another area that needs to be improved is agriculture. People need training to increase their yield. Many farmers are still engaged in backward farming and subsistent farming. The Department of Agriculture should be tapped to give them the necessary skills.
The role of the municipal, provincial and national government officials cannot be exaggerated when it comes to reducing the incidence of poverty in this town or any other town in the country. The municipality of Mayaoyao has a strong leadership and a population with a lot of potential. With vital infrastructure provided, many can look forward to a robust and vibrant economy. **Anthony A. Araos
