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Isabela’s newly inaugurated Mayor Miguel “Ricky” Méndez Pérez, who took the oath of office last weekend, has unveiled his intentions to assist non-profit organizations and kickstart significant initiatives across the city for his 2025-2028 term.
The inauguration ceremony was held before the Mayor’s Office at the Manuel Corchado y Juarbe public square, where a substantial audience gathered.
In his speech to the attendees, Méndez Pérez highlighted the successes of the previous four years, which he noted involved enhancements in administration, facility renovations, sports programs, road improvements, and education, all made possible through considerable investments.
“This is merely a snapshot of our achievements over the last four years, excluding the extensive support provided through materials, household aid, payment of utilities, water line installations, electrical upgrades, and a multitude of other services that have improved the living standards for all residents of Isabela,” the mayor stated. “I will persist in my efforts with zeal and resolve to enhance our community’s quality of life.”
Méndez Pérez also mentioned that “[d]uring this four-year period, we focused on establishing collaborative schools and formulating sports academies and workshops for the diverse functional population associated with tech innovation hubs.”
“Furthermore, we plan to launch a Youth Affairs Office and strengthen community gatherings and citizen education programs,” he added.
The mayor underscored his ongoing support for non-profit entities, indicating that over 14 organizations have benefited from continuous assistance from his administration, which he views as an extension of local government presence throughout Isabela.
“Together, we will tackle cultural, environmental, social, historical, educational, and other dimensions,” he stated. “Our commitment will be further solidified with the formation of our Faith-Based Office, which enhances direct interaction with the third sector and strengthens our community ties.”
Concerning cultural initiatives, the mayor revealed plans to initiate construction of the Paseo de los Artistas and a new theater, designed to become a center for cultural and artistic growth in the city.
He asserted that economic development in Isabela is a fundamental priority, detailing plans to persist with entrepreneurship and workforce development programs, which allocated over $1 million to assist local merchants and various non-profit organizations in the last four years.
“We will bolster these initiatives with research aimed at developing regions that can act as trailblazers for creating incentives or removing taxes (like free trade zones) to stimulate the establishment of new enterprises,” Méndez Pérez remarked.
The mayor acknowledged the necessity of diversifying Isabela’s economy beyond tourism, pinpointing probable growth sectors such as technology, agriculture, and fishing.
“I am dedicated to advancing these industries,” he affirmed.
Moreover, the mayor disclosed a $7 million initiative to upgrade the Isabelino Center for Advanced Medicine to serve the entire northwest area, along with a new medical emergency scheme that will introduce three ambulances this year.
