CALAMBA, Misamis Occidental – The Municipality of Calamba celebrated another milestone in its tourism and local development initiatives through the successful Ribbon-Cutting and Turnover Ceremony of the Improvement of Siloy Man-Made Lake Tourist Resort, attended by national, regional, provincial, and local government officials, barangay leaders, and department heads.

The program commenced with an invocation led by Pastor Ervin Eric M. Salig, who offered prayers for God’s guidance and blessings upon the newly improved tourist destination, as well as for the continued progress and prosperity of the Municipality of Calamba.

The ceremonial ribbon-cutting formally inaugurated the improved tourist facility, symbolizing the local government’s unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental conservation, and economic development.

The event was graced by Regional Director Bruce A. Colao, CESO V, who delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the importance of collaborative governance and the role of tourism infrastructure in stimulating local economic growth. He commended the Municipality of Calamba for its dedication to creating tourism destinations that not only showcase the municipality’s natural beauty but also provide livelihood opportunities for the local community. Director Colao encouraged everyone to continue working together in preserving the environment while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism for future generations.

Also present was Provincial Director Edward G. Bhagwani, JD, MNSA, CESO V, who congratulated the local government for successfully implementing the project. In his message, he highlighted that the completion of the Improved Siloy Man-Made Lake Tourist Resort is a testament to effective leadership, sound governance, and strong partnership among government agencies, barangay officials, and the community. He emphasized that projects like this contribute significantly to community development, tourism promotion, and improved public services.

Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO) Faith Constantino likewise expressed her appreciation to the local government officials and stakeholders for their collective efforts in realizing the project. She underscored the importance of maintaining transparency, accountability, and community participation in every local government initiative.

Leading the ceremony, Mayor Luisito B. Villanueva Jr., MNSA, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all government agencies, partners, and the people of Barangay Siloy for their unwavering support. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to pursuing development projects that improve public infrastructure, strengthen tourism, create employment opportunities, and enhance the quality of life of every Calambahanon. The Mayor also encouraged everyone to take pride in and help preserve the improved tourist attraction as a symbol of the municipality’s continued progress.

Vice Mayor Ezel T. Villanueva, together with the members of the Sangguniang Bayan of Calamba, conveyed their full support for initiatives that promote tourism and local economic development. They emphasized the importance of legislative support in sustaining programs and projects that benefit both residents and visitors.

The ceremony was attended by the Barangay Officials of Barangay Siloy, Department Heads of the Local Government Unit of Calamba, municipal employees, community stakeholders, and guests who witnessed the formal turnover of the project.

The Improvement of Siloy Man-Made Lake Tourist Resort is expected to become one of Calamba’s premier eco-tourism destinations, offering a scenic recreational area while contributing to environmental awareness, community empowerment, and local economic growth.

The successful completion of the project reflects the Municipality of Calamba’s continuing commitment to inclusive development, sustainable tourism, and responsive public service. Through the collective efforts of national agencies, local government officials, barangay leaders, and the community, the municipality continues to build a stronger, more progressive, and more resilient future for all.