P150-M ‘SM’ in EB Magalona opens

The P150 million two-storey Saravia Commercial Building, popularly known as Saravia Mall or “SM” in EB Magalona town, was inaugurated and blessed Friday.

Mayor Marvin Malacon of EB Magalona spearheaded the opening of the municipality’s modern commercial center.

Joining Malacon during the opening rites were Rep. Joseph Stephen “Caraps” Paduano of Abang Lingkod Partylist, 3rd District Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, and Negros Occ. Provincial Board Member Andrew Montelibano.

Malacon said Saravia Mall has more than 100 commercial spaces.

The second floor is being reserved for offices of various national government agencies, and a function area for big events, the mayor said.

With many interested to put up their businesses in the facility, he said, they are screening all applicants to ensure that they are not competing against each other.

“I want a balanced … different kinds of business to occupy it…,” Malacon added.

Meanwhile, the mayor said there are food chain stores and other establishments that are looking for spaces to operate in other areas of the town.

Re-election Bid

On the other hand, Mayor Malacon, who filed his certificate of candidacy on Friday accompanied by Reps. Benitez and Paduano, said his priority on his third and last term will be the economic recovery of EB Magalona, saying the pandemic also hit the town economically.

The mayor said that he aims to complete all the infrastructure projects during his last term with the help of Congressmen Benitez and Paduano, and the provincial government.

“EB Magalona is a small town with a small Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA). We can’t afford if we rely solely on our local funds,” he added.

Calling for unity of Saraviahanons, Mayor Malacon said, “when we all work together as one we can do something.”

He said the town survived the Covid pandemic onslaught with a small budget by prioritizing only the need of the people.* (Photos courtesy of the EB Magalona LGU)