By The Star Staff
Isabela Mayor Miguel “Ricky” Méndez Pérez, who was sworn in over the weekend, has announced plans to support non-profit groups and initiate important projects throughout the city during his term from 2025 to 2028.
The swearing-in ceremony took place in front of the Mayor’s Office at the Manuel Corchado y Juarbe public square, attended by a large crowd.
In his address to those present, Méndez Pérez reflected on the accomplishments of the past four years, which he said included improvements in administration, facility reconstruction, sports initiatives, road paving and education, all achieved through significant investments.
“This is just a glimpse of what we accomplished in the past four years, not including the extensive help provided through materials, household assistance, utility payments, water pipe installations, electrical improvements, and numerous other services that have enhanced the quality of life for all Isabelinos,” the mayor said. “I will continue to work with passion and determination to further improve our community’s quality of life.”
Méndez Pérez added that “[d]uring these four years, we aimed to establish alliance schools and develop sports schools and workshops for the functionally diverse population associated with technological innovation centers.”
“We will also create a Youth Affairs Office and strengthen community meetings and citizen training programs,” he said.
The mayor emphasized his continued support for non-profit organizations, noting that more than 14 organizations have already received ongoing assistance from his administration, which he considers an extension of the local government throughout Isabela.
“Together, we address cultural, environmental, social, historical, educational and other aspects,” he said. “Our commitment will grow even stronger with the establishment of our Faith-Based Office, which fosters direct contact with the third sector and enhances our connection with the community.”
Regarding cultural initiatives, the mayor announced plans to begin construction of the Paseo de los Artistas and a new theater, which will serve as a hub for cultural and artistic development in the city.
Economic development in Isabela remains a priority, he said, as he outlined plans to continue entrepreneurship and workforce development programs, in which over $1 million was allocated to support merchants and various non-profit entities in the past four years.
“We will reinforce these initiatives with studies aimed at developing areas that can serve as pioneers for creating incentives or eliminating taxes (such as free trade areas) to encourage the establishment of new businesses,” Méndez Pérez said.
The mayor noted the importance of diversifying Isabela’s economy beyond tourism, identifying potential growth areas such as technology, agriculture, and fishing.
“I am committed to developing these sectors,” he said.
Additionally, the mayor reported on a $7 million project to enhance the Isabelino Center for Advanced Medicine to serve the entire northwest region, along with a new medical emergency program that will introduce three new ambulances this year.
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