In Barangay Sinamay, Alimodian, Iloilo, an incomplete road project has drawn the attention of the community, not through official complaints but through an unusual form of protest. Frustrated by the lack of progress, residents have turned the idle construction site into a small plantation, planting banana and coconut trees along the unfinished road.
The initiative highlights the community’s frustration over the inconvenience caused by the halted project. Photographs shared on social media platforms show banana trees already bearing fruit, alongside young coconut plants, providing a sharp contrast to the stalled infrastructure. This unconventional approach not only symbolizes the residents’ dissatisfaction but also demonstrates their creativity in making practical use of an otherwise neglected area.
Infrastructure delays in Iloilo are not uncommon. Nearby areas have experienced similar challenges where road projects remain incomplete, often leading to public outcry. In Tubungan, another town in Iloilo, concerns about an unpaved road prompted the local mayor to inspect the situation personally. Community leaders have called on project engineers and contractors to ensure that deadlines are met, emphasizing the need for accountability and prompt resolution to avoid prolonged public inconvenience.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has also faced calls to enforce stricter monitoring and ensure that contractors fulfill their obligations. Delays in infrastructure projects not only disrupt daily routines but may also pose risks to public safety, particularly during rainy seasons when unfinished roads become hazardous.
Residents in Barangay Sinamay view their tree-planting activity as a statement urging immediate action. While lighthearted in appearance, their effort reflects broader concerns over neglected public works and the impact of such issues on rural communities. Their protest also sends a clear message to local officials and contractors about the importance of addressing these concerns promptly.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the contractor involved in the Barangay Sinamay project. Local government units and relevant agencies are encouraged to collaborate with residents to ensure the road’s completion and to prevent similar issues from recurring in other areas. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and efficient project management in public infrastructure development.