At least 19 regional offices of national government agencies are expected to relocate to El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental, this year. In an interview on Thursday,
El Salvador Mayor Edgar Lignes said the transfers may trigger an influx of activities that benefit the local economy and improve the implementation of national government programs in the communities.
“What Cagayan de Oro has, El Salvador City also has. The city government has offered free office spaces to the national government agencies, aiming to accelerate local development,” he said.
Lignes said the city is well-suited for government transactions, particularly for agencies dealing with offices from Manila and Cebu, citing its proximity to Laguindingan International Airport.
The airport is only 12.6 km. away from El Salvador City, compared to Cagayan de Oro City’s 34.7 km. distance.
Among the agencies identified for relocation are the Department of Agriculture, Department of Science and Technology, Maritime Industry Authority, National Meat Inspection Service, National Bureau of Investigation, and the Philippine Coconut Authority.
The regional office of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency was transferred last year, while other agencies on the list have expressed interest in relocating to El Salvador City.
Known for its Divine Mercy Shrine, which draws thousands of religious pilgrims especially during the Holy Week, the city is also an agro-industrial hub for multinational food and manufacturing firms operating in the area. (PNA)
