GENERAL SANTOS – General Santos City broke ground for the construction of the new City Hall. The ambitious project, anticipated to be completed by 2024, has been allocated a budget of 200 million pesos for Phase 1. DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. graced the ceremony with his presence, further highlighting the significance of this development.
The ceremony, held at the West Wing of the City Hall compound, was led by Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao and attended by local government officials. Mayor Pacquiao expressed her commitment to improving the City Hall, stating that it is high time to provide a better government facility for the people of General Santos.
In her address, Mayor Pacquiao emphasized the importance of unity among citizens to foster the city’s progress.
“This day is special because we will finally start building our long-awaited new government center. Our government house has stood for more than three decades, and we all deserve this, the people of General Santos. As our city grows, our citizens deserve a good government house while engaging with the government,” Mayor Pacquiao declared.
DILG Secretary Abalos Jr., acknowledging Mayor Pacquiao’s dedication, praised her leadership qualities and expressed confidence in her ability to serve the constituents effectively.
“We should not just serve, but we should serve our citizens. That is our role. And with this, we know, Mayor – all public servants here, it made you a head city. Just keep it up. Congratulations with your vision!” Secretary Abalos Jr. commended.
The ceremony also included the signing of the project documents and the laying of the time capsule. Mayor Pacquiao, joined by her husband, Bobby Pacquiao, Secretary Abalos, City Administrator Shandee Llido Pestaño, councilors, representatives from A.MP. Construction, department heads, and assistant department heads, symbolized the city’s commitment to the project’s success.
Noteworthy attendees encompassed the regional and city directors of DILG, personnel from the General Santos Fire Station, General Santos City Police Office, Task Force Gensan, and other esteemed individuals.
Phase 1 of the construction, funded by 20 percent development funds, has allotted a substantial budget of 200 million pesos for the West Wing. The completion of this project is expected to optimize and streamline the citizens’ transactions with the local government, providing a more efficient and well-planned environment.
