ILIGAN CITY (PIA) -- To foster closer ties with the residents and address their concerns more effectively, the local government unit (LGU) launched the "Isulti kay Freddie" platform. 

The platform, which Mayor Frederick Siao is initiating, aims to give locals a direct channel to express their issues and problems.

During serbisyo (service) caravans held in barangays weekly, Siao personally engages with residents and listens to their concerns and problems. 

Siao said that many residents were already reaching out through their Facebook pages,  indicating a need for a platform to address their issues.  

“Unang-una, na-notice namo mismo sa akong page, daghan kaayo mu-direct og message nato ug magpaabot sa ilang problema. So why not take the opportunity  nga sa serbisyo caravan, paminawon nato unsa gyud ang mga gusto sa mga katawhan sa ground, sa kapurukan, even mga personal nga problema, paminawon nato ug tan-awon nato kung unsa ang ikatabang sa gobyerno kanila [First and foremost, we noticed on my page that many residents are directly messaging us to convey their problems. So why not take the opportunity during the service caravan to truly listen to what the people on the ground want? From the grassroots level, even their personal problems, we will listen and find ways how the government can help them],” he said. 

Moreover, Siao guarantees that all concerns will be addressed by referring them to the relevant departments. 

With the new platform, the residents are elated that they were able to voice their concerns directly to the local chief executive.

One of them is Paregena Sanopao, a 78-year-old resident of Barangay Buruun. She sought assistance from the LGU for her  59-year-old daughter, who has a disability and is a survivor of coronavirus disease. 

"Nalipay ko na nakaistorya nako si mayor nga makuhaan akong problema [I am happy that I was able to talk to the mayor because the problem can be addressed]," she said.

 Meanwhile, some residents of Barangay Tominobo, particularly those living in Caritas Village, relayed their concerns about proper drainage and road maintenance.

Maribel Baluran relayed the issue of poor drainage causing road hazards during heavy rains. She appealed for drainage solutions and was assured that this would be addressed. 

"Nigaan akong paminaw kay nasulti nako among problema directly kay mayor. Naminaw jud sya. Thankful kaayo ko nga si mayor naa jud sya  sa mga nanginahanglan sa iyang tabang [I felt  relieved that I was able to relay our problem to the mayor.   He truly listened. I am very thankful that the mayor is genuinely  with those who need his help]," she said.

Moreover, Norberto Romo expressed satisfaction with their engagement with the mayor.  He is hopeful that all the concerns they have relayed will be given attention and time. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)