By Iryll Sicnao

TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Philippines — The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento led the groundbreaking for two road projects worth P65 million on September 29, 2026, in Kalinga, seen to boost local development in several communities.

The P25-million road improvement project in Barangay Agbannawag, Tabuk City, and the P40-million construction of the Awichon, Dangoy to Upper Uma Road (Phase II) in the municipality of Lubuagan are expected to make travel safer and more comfortable for residents, ease the transport of agricultural products, and improve access to essential services.

OPAPRU’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program, a flagship initiative to bring progress, development, and lasting peace to remote, conflict-affected areas in the country, funded the projects.

“Kami sa Barangay Agbannawag, nagpapasalamat kasi isa ito sa aming ipinagdarasal. Salamat OPAPRU. We promise na babantayan namin ito,” said Agbannawag Punong Barangay Raymundo Alwing.

“We are grateful for the continuous support given to the municipality of Lubuagan. Your assistance has strengthened our capacity to address our constituents’ needs. We hope that this partnership will continue and more programs, projects and development will reach our municipality in the years ahead,” said Lubuagan Mayor Joel B. Tagaotao.

Sarmiento affirmed the agency’s support for initiatives in Kalinga to improve the lives of residents in vulnerable communities.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, the Tabuk City government adopted Sarmiento as a son of the city and conferred upon him the Kalinga native name ‘Konchar’ after a highly respected Bodong (peace pact) holder and peace advocate.

The honor is in recognition of Sarmiento’s leadership and support for the implementation of vital socio-economic projects and peacebuilding initiatives that are contributing to the stability, progress, and development of Tabuk City. (JDP/IOS-PIA CAR, Kalinga)