By CESAR JOLITO III
The La Carlota City government rolled out a 10-year development blueprint aimed at positioning the city as a regional economic gateway while addressing growing disaster and climate risks through 2032.
La Carlota Mayor Jose Luis “Joelu” Jalandoni said the plan will serve as the city’s primary guide for sustainable growth, ensuring that development is both people-centered and environmentally sound.
City officials formally presented the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2023-2032, outlining strategies for balanced urban expansion, improved governance, and stronger disaster resilience.
A key feature of the roadmap is its integration of Climate and Disaster Risk Assessment (CDRA) findings.
City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Dr. Junnie Martin Torrefranca identified urban Barangays I, II and III, as well as San Miguel and Ara-al, as priority areas vulnerable to hazards.
He emphasized the need for data-driven infrastructure projects and community-focused disaster preparedness programs to reduce risks in these zones.
City Administrator Josefina “Fini” Jalandoni said the local government has begun coordinating with landowners to secure strategic areas for future expansion, underscoring the administration’s long-term vision for orderly growth.
Meanwhile, City Planning and Development Officer Engineer Jose Ainar Apdol presented key sectoral gaps and constraints that the plan seeks to address over the next decade.
The CLUP will be submitted to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development for review and approval.
Housing and Homesite Regulation Officer Brechelle Grace Benotapa explained that under Republic Act 11201, the agency must ensure that the city’s zoning ordinances comply with national planning standards before implementation.
Members of the city council and department heads attended the presentation, signaling broad local support for the roadmap, which officials say is critical to securing La Carlota’s economic future while safeguarding communities against climate-related threats./CJ, WDJ