• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The flood control efforts of the Victorias City government got a boost after it acquired three excavators.
Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez disclosed that the acquisition of three excavators is a big help in the dredging and desilting of rivers, canals and the drainage system in Victorias City, which had been hit by flash floods in previous years.
With the arrival of our new long-reach and mini excavators, we are taking action, clearing canals, dredging waterways, and protecting lives and livelihoods, Benitez said
This is more than equipment. It’s an investment in prevention, in preparedness, and in a safer Victorias for all, the mayor added.
Benitez turned over the heavy equipment to City Engineer Mary Jean Majaducon and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Rodolfo Retirado III on June 16.
On the other hand, a total of 287 tricycle operators were formally awarded their Motorized Tricycle Operator’s Permits (MTOP) of tricycle franchise in a distribution ceremony held at Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Arts and Cultural Center on June 17 in Victorias City.
Benitez led distribution, along with SP Committee Chair on Transport and Traffic Management Councilor Eric Alcobilla, Councilor Dino Acuña, and Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) Head and City Administrator Atty. Lindolf de Castro.
The awarded franchises were carefully reviewed and validated by the Victorias Franchising and Regulatory Board (VFRB) and the BPLO, and approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
The franchises stemmed from previously surrendered or revoked permits from former franchise holders, ensuring a thorough and transparent process of reallocation.
Benitez also expressed his appreciation to the transport sector for their continued efforts in maintaining road safety and for catering to the daily commuting needs of Victoriasanons.
He assured tricycle operators that their rights and welfare will remain protected under his leadership, and that the city government will continue to implement and strengthen programs that uplift their livelihoods.
Two weeks before he steps down as mayor of Victorias City, Congressman-elect Benitez also turned over ten laptops from GCash to the City Treasurer’s Office.
The laptops were awarded following Victorias City’s recognition as a DigiCities LGU Awardee during the GCash Digital Excellence Awards in December 2024.
The awarding of the laptops was facilitated by GCash Account Manager Bebs Novicio, who represented the company during the ceremony on June 16.*
