Virac, Catanduanes — Mayor Sinforoso M. Sarmiento Jr. highlighted the key projects and programs of his administration during the first 100 days of his term as mayor of Virac, as presented in his “Ulat sa Bayan 2025.”
In his message, Mayor Sarmiento explained that although he is not one to publicize his accomplishments, he deemed it necessary to report to ensure transparency and keep the people of Virac informed about the local government’s initiatives.
Support for Farmers and Fisherfolk
One of the administration’s flagship programs is the revitalization of the Libreng Arado Program, which aims to assist farmers with the high cost of land preparation. With tractor rentals costing around ₱800 per hour, the LGU has been providing free service to ease farmers’ production expenses.
Three tractors are currently operational, with plans to acquire additional units, including a harvester, in the coming months.
The LGU also extended assistance to fisherfolk affected by bad weather, in coordination with DSWD and congressmen Leo Rodriguez and Bong Teves, allowing registered fishermen to receive financial aid.
Fight Against Malnutrition
Mayor Sarmiento emphasized the administration’s focus on nutrition, after identifying a significant number of underweight children in various barangays.
A total of 245 underweight children benefited from feeding programs conducted in barangays Valencia, Bigaa, Sto. Domingo, Sto. Cristo, Calabnigan, Dugui Too, and San Isidro. The program was supported by private individuals and business owners who volunteered assistance.
Sanitation and Infrastructure
Within the first 100 days, the LGU constructed 15 private toilets in barangays Dugui Too and Sto. Cristo through partnerships with Gawad Kalinga Foundation, ADRA, and TESDA.
The long-stalled Provincial Integrated Terminal in San Isidro Village has also been restored to full operation.
Plans are underway to build additional public toilets at the terminal and along Imelda Boulevard.
Orderliness and Cleanliness
The administration strengthened the Task Force Kalinisan and the River Warriors to clean canals and waterways across the town.
The initiative resulted in reduced flooding and fewer clogged drainage systems in major streets and barangays.
The Food for Work Program was also expanded, allowing beneficiaries to work on cleanliness projects instead of receiving direct cash assistance.
Education and Youth Development
The LGU implemented scholarship and educational assistance programs for deserving students. Mayor Sarmiento stressed that scholars must not feel indebted to any politician, as the funds come from taxpayers.
Tree planting activities and youth programs promoting discipline and environmental awareness were also conducted.
Sports and Women Empowerment
The Sports Center in Barangay Rawis, previously damaged, has been repaired and is now fully functional again, with help from the CatSU Basketball Association alumni.
A Women-Friendly Space (WFS) has been established at the Community Hub in San Isidro Village in partnership with ADRA, providing a safe area for women.
Public Service and TransportationThe LGU secured an ambulance from PCSO through the support of Governor Patrick Azanza and Congressman Leo Rodriguez.
Meanwhile, collaborations with the LTO, PNP, and Task Force Kulorum are ongoing to regulate public transportation and address illegal or unregistered transport operations.
Clean and Responsible Governance
According to Mayor Sarmiento, many of the projects were made possible not through large government funding but through partnerships with private individuals and organizations that trust the LGU.
He reiterated, “Public service should not make citizens feel indebted to politicians, because they have worked hard for what they receive.”
Overall, Mayor Sarmiento emphasized that the goal of his administration is to provide “clean, honest, and humane service”—a governance that works with compassion and without political indebtedness.
He concluded, “The true measure of leadership is not the number of projects, but the number of people you are able to help.”
— Joden Tomagan aka Papa Tom
