President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Laguna Governor Teresita "Ningning" S. Lazaro are set to lead the inauguration ceremonies and blessing of the Presidential Bridge at Brgy. Looc in Calamba City, Laguna on November 15, 2005 around 10:00 AM.

     The 50-meter bridge is a joint project of Pres. Arroyo and Gov. Lazaro and is expected to further boost Laguna's development including the nearby provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon (CALABARZON). The vital infrastructure is said to further spur economic growth since travel time for motorist and businessmen based in the province and in the whole CALABARZON will be reduced.

     Gov. Lazaro, in an interview, thanked President Arroyo and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and all concerned citizens and agencies for the fast tracking of the said project. She stressed that the project is in line with the Provincial Government's 7-Point Agenda that her administration has been implementing since her assumption to office way back in 2001. "It's really heartwarming to see the concern of the President to the people, particularly to the Lagunenses, with the essential programs like infrastructure projects and farm to market roads that will alleviate poverty. Our country is in the midst of so many crises, yet the President is working twofold to perform beyond her sworn duties." Lazaro said.

     Expected to attend the simple ceremony are DPWH Sec. Hermogenes Ebdane, Vice-Gov. Edwin Olivarez and the Board Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, City Mayor Joaquin Chipeco with other town mayors, 2nd District Representative Cong. Justin Chipeco, Looc Brgy. Chairman Nonilon Natividad, and other local officials and constituents. # (PIO-Laguna)