‘Dead’ Capitol projects highlight Tupas SOPA
Two multi-million “dead” projects designed by the administration of Governor Niel Tupas Sr. resurfaced in yesterday’s State of the Province Address (SOPA).
Taking off from his plea to end what he acknowledged as “walls of partisan politics” in the legislative department, Tupas spoke extensively of the plan.
With some 18 months remaining in office and after speaking briefly about his various purported accomplishments, the governor wants to see the realization of a convention center and Information Technology park for the province.
The governor did so yet not before he was specific with his sermon – “We have to set aside our selfish individual agendas and find common ground to build the fortifications for our province.”
And strong words too with Tupas copying the line of American President George Bush in August 2005 in Texas, USA, “Make no mistake about this, this is a war…..”
Governor Tupas in his SOPA was all optimistic too in facing off with the world crisis.
“In crisis, there is opportunity. And this crisis provides Iloilo province with an excellent opportunity to step up its economic growth,” Tupas said of what he likened to America’s “economic stimulus.” “Governments, both national and local, will have to infuse more money into projects that will create jobs and enhance competency. We cannot simply wait and talk and talk and talk. …….Among the proposals I intend to revive are construction of a convention center and government center………We have to look at these proposals without partisan politics in mind.”
As for the province’s state, the governor made a “brief run-down” of major accomplishments.
He was pleased, he said, to report to the people the gains of the Capitol’s peace and order efforts.
“…we have sent to criminals that crime does not pay,” Tupas said with high praises for Iloilo cops as “the best in the country.”
A run-down too on illegalities such as illegal fishing, illegal gambling, cattle rustling and illegal drugs.
“….illegal drugs….this crime is the worst sin imaginable in our society….,” he said.
The governor also highlighted his award as among the six governors in terms of hospital administration.
“There are more accomplishments that I will no longer cite to you one-by-one. It is enough to demonstrate that even in the face of big obstacles, we have managed to score dramatic success in the many fields of endeavor that we are undertaking,” he said.