Ilocos Norte prioritizes vaccination, economic programs
Optimistic about 2021being the year of recovery for Ilocos Norte, Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc declared that vaccination and economic recovery programs are his top priorities.
“This year, we will remain steadfast in building a sustainable and resilient healthcare system for our constituents, especially in our ongoing battle against the virus.
“We will continue to find solutions to mend our hard-hit economy by recreating all-inclusive programs for various affected demographics that shall rehabilitate our economy,” Governor Manotoc wrote in his Annual Investment Program 2021 message.
He further emphasized that these investments will be in harmony with programs for the advancement of Ilocos Norte’s agriculture, environment, education, and transportation sectors.
On January 13, Gov. Manotoc’s during his first press briefing informed members of local media outfits that the Provincial Government, through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, approved the resolution authorizing the Governor to enter into a multilateral agreement with AstraZeneca Pharmaceutical Company for the advance purchase of 120,000 doses of AZD1222 vaccine for Ilocos Norte. The initial purchase will benefit 60,000 targeted individuals.
Moreover, he urged small business owners to avail the Provincial Government’s micro-financing assistance program. This initiative aims to provide cost-effective, fast approval financing with minimal requirements, and zero interest rate loans for qualified micro, small, and medium enterprises. It was first launched in October 2020, to mitigate the economic impacts of COVID-19.
On the other hand, Gov. Marcos Manotoc said that all government-managed hospitals in the province are under rehabilitation and improvement, including Ilocos Norte’s flagship health facility, the Governor Roque B. Ablan Sr. Memorial Hospital.
Meanwhile, the renovated La Tabacalera Lifestyle Center will be inaugurated soon to serve as an outdoor food park.
“As a year of healing, we set our new roadmap and strive towards a brighter and safer future,” Gov. Manotoc ended.
