THE city government of Ormoc boasted a total of P4.5 billion budget for the upcoming year, an allocation will fund various development projects, including major infrastructure upgrades.

This was reported by Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez during her State of the City Address (SOCA) on Monday, October 14, aimed at transforming Ormoc into a hub for progress while preserving its natural beauty and agricultural strength.

Gomez said that of the total budget, P2.7 billion was approved by the council, which will be used in maintaining social services projects. This is a 17.39 percent increase from last year’s P2.3 billion.

On top of this, the mayor said that the city will receive P1.8 billion budget, which will come from pledges from senators and also fundings from the congressional budget of the office of her husband Leyte Fourth District Representative Richard Gomez.

The additional budget will focus on infrastructure projects.

In her speech, among the mayor’s key priorities is the continued support for road and public works projects.

These initiatives are set to enhance accessibility across the city and drive its economic growth.

Gomez emphasized the importance of ensuring that development reaches even the most remote areas, aiming to uplift all sectors of society.

Her speech also touched on Ormoc’s strategic growth, using a metaphor of a night-blooming water lily to describe how the city thrives when given the right environment.

“We have expanded our city’s functional, serviceable, and valuable space," she said.

Additionally, she said she will focus on health as the mayor outlined plans to strengthen healthcare services. She said Ormoc will soon have its own city-run hospital, making them better equipped to serve its growing population.

Also on education, she said a city college will soon be fully operational, which will offer free education at the tertiary level. It will provide degree programs that are not available at any existing private institutions.

In the future, the school will offer programs related to marketing, office administration, social work, and public administration.

Meanwhile, during the post-Soca press conference at the Ormoc City Museum, Gomez shared her long-term vision for the city.

She expressed her aspiration to spur massive development while preserving Ormoc City's identity as a “city within the province.”

Gomez emphasized her desire to maintain the city's natural beauty, even as she pushes for infrastructure projects. She highlighted the importance of existing natural springs and the backbone of their agricultural industry, particularly pineapple planting.

The city celebrates the Piña Festival every June to give thanks for the bountiful pineapple harvest in Ormoc City, and to honor the patron saints, Peter and Paul.

Gomez acknowledged that while other local government units might aspire to emulate European countries, she finds it unnecessary.

When asked about her preference between public service and her former career in showbiz, the former actress noted her appreciation for both.

She explained that each phase of life prepares one for the next, finding fulfillment in both her past and current roles.

Meanwhile, Congressman Richard Gomez, her husband, also shared his perspective on balancing their public roles and celebrity status, remarking that he enjoys both, as each involves engaging with the public, whether through their work as public servants or entertainers.

Gomez became the mayor after winning the 2022 elections and is eyeing reelection for another term in the upcoming 2025 midterm polls.(MyTVCebu)

• Tags
• #Ormoc City
• #Lucy Torres-Gomez
• #State of the City Address