BALANGA CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed the three-story Doña Francisca Barangay Hall in Balanga City, Bataan.
The 864-square-meter facility, funded under the 2024 national budget with a total cost of P19.34 million, now provides a functional and spacious venue for the village.
DPWH Bataan 2nd OIC-District Engineer Roland Rainier Victorino emphasized that the facility replaces the old office located in the Senior Citizens’ building, which offered limited space for community programs.
“The new structure will also serve as a vital hub during calamities, reflecting our ongoing commitment to improving public infrastructure for the benefit of the residents,” he said.
Victorino also highlighted the project’s features, which include the installation of a Closed-Circuit Television system, power generator, water pump system, public address system, and high-quality steel reinforcement to ensure its stability.
Meanwhile, Barangay Captain Corazon Gonzales expressed her gratitude for the new hall, noting its importance in offering a safe and comfortable space for residents, especially during emergencies.
“Kami kasi ang ‘catch basin’ ng bagyo kung tawagin kaya napagplanuhan na talaga namin na maging evacuation area ito ng mga residente namin dahil sa court sila tumatakbo. Sa bago naming building, talagang convenient at komportable ito para sa lahat (We’re often referred to as the catch basin for typhoons, so we really planned for this to serve as an evacuation area for our residents because they used to run to the court. With our new building, it’s truly convenient and comfortable for everyone),” Gonzales explained.
The project supports efficient governance and improves public services while offering ample space for community meetings and events to strengthen engagement between officials and residents. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Bataan)