A once-isolated and feared passageway has now become a beacon of safety and hope.
Today, the Municipality of Minalin proudly inaugurated the Installation of Solar Streetlights project at Tail Dike Road, Barangays Sta. Catalina and Sta. Rita—an initiative funded under the FY 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance Incentive Fund (SGLGIF), with an allocation of ₱1,153,000.00.
The project includes the installation of 25 brand-new 150-watt solar streetlights with posts and concrete pedestals, and the replacement of 98 existing units, significantly improving nighttime visibility and road safety in the area. Tail Dike Road serves not only Sta. Rita and Sta. Catalina residents, but also motorists from Barangays Maniango, Bulac, and even nearby Bacolor—making this upgrade vital to the daily lives of countless Minaleños.
Before the project, the stretch was shunned at night due to its darkness and isolation, despite being the fastest route home for many. Now brightly lit, the road offers peace of mind and security to all who pass through it.
Mayor Philip S. Naguit, in his speech, emphasized the importance of strategic and impactful governance:
"With this very limited fund na nakuha natin sa ating Incentive Fund sa DILG, bilang isang alkalde o lider ng isang bayan, kailangan talaga nating maging matalino at magaling. Kahit maliit man ito (fund allocation), dapat malaki ang maibigay na impact sa ating mga kababayan."
The project, recognized as Top 5 in implementation nationwide, is a testament to Minalin's dedication to innovation, safety, and sustainable development.
DILG Pampanga Provincial Director Myra B. Moral-Soriano graced the inauguration and extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Municipal Government of Minalin. She acknowledged the leadership of Mayor Naguit, along with the support of the elected officials and barangay functionaries, for their constant cooperation with the programs of the DILG.
As solar-powered lights now illuminate Tail Dike Road, Minalin continues to light the way—proving that even with modest resources, meaningful progress can shine the brightest.