It is not an exaggeration to say that whoever wishes to learn about Bataan history must explore Pilar first, for this town abounds with historical memoirs. But aside from being the home of the Flaming Sword monument and the Mount Samat National Shrine as we know, this town is equally blessed with agricultural lands. Hence, tourism and farming remain the two most important sources of economy in the area.
Two years ago, the Municipality of Pilar received a financial subsidy amounting to P11,623,000 under the DILG's FY 2019 Assistance to Municipalities Program. Remaining steadfast to its commitment of attending to the needs of constituents, the LGU allotted additional funds and pushed through with the construction of a 375-meter local access road in Barangay Panilao.
The completed project—a testimony of the LGU's efforts on sustainable development—connects Josefaville Subdivision in the said barrio to a road under construction that leads to Barangay Wawa. On both sides of the 6.6-meter carriageway are covered canals that serve as sidewalks for pedestrians. And because of its location in the midst of vast rice fields, the concrete road does not only provide accessibility for farmers and residents but also offers a scenic view of the horizon and the astounding mountain ranges.
Just like any other impactful projects, this road has paved way to a number of success stories, changed people, and improved ways of living, especially for a third-class municipality like Pilar. Soon, this development will generate a ripple effect of progress to the community and ultimately reinforce the agricultural sector–the historic town's oldest and strongest pillar.