Construction of a new P50-million auditorium in Pola, Oriental Mindoro officially began on Sunday, with town and provincial officials pushing through with the groundbreaking ceremony despite heavy rains brought by Tropical Depression Wilma.

Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor led the ceremony with Pola Mayor Jennifer “Inah Alegre” Cruz and Vice Mayor Leandro Panganiban Jr.

“Although we have small projects that have been implemented and are continuously being implemented by the Provincial Government in each barangay, I am also giving greater attention to the construction of large projects for each town so that more residents can benefit,” Gov. Dolor said.

The new auditorium will serve Poleños for important municipal programs, performances, and large gatherings, officials said.

Provincial Tourism Officer Dr. Dhon Stepherson Calda, whose office led the program implementation, oversaw the ceremony proceedings.

For Mayor Cruz, the groundbreaking was doubly special as it coincided with her birthday.

Fr. Marlon Labay of St. John The Baptist Parish blessed the project site before officials conducted a time capsule ceremony, symbolizing unity in building what organizers described as a home for arts, culture, and important programs for Pola.

Also present were Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Board Members Ryan Arago and Marion Marcos, and several mayors from neighboring towns including Allan Roldan, Rodel Magsino, Teresita Ong, Ronaldo Morada, and Mike Malaluan, along with Vice Mayor Aris Baldos and Pola Sangguniang Bayan members.

photos courtesy of Rakie Alcano and Pola LGU