Tubod, Lanao del Norte – If Rep. Aliah Dimaporo would have it, this would be the destiny for the interior town of Pantao Ragat.


This was amplified by the young parliamentarian during her speech in the first-ever “Maisan Festival” of the municipality last April 18, 2011.


“Lake Lanao is the heart of Mindanao because this beautiful lake provides 80% of the electricity for the entire island of Mindanao. And this electricity is produced by harnessing the Agus River that flows from Lake Lanao”, explained Dimaporo.


The lady solon is strongly focusing on the conservation of the natural watercourses and watersheds in the areas where the Agus River flows.


Among the four towns that Agus River runs through only Pantao Ragat is part of her congressional district. Balo-I, Pantar and Matungao belong to the first district of Lanao del Norte.


Working hard for her environmental advocacy, Dimaporo was able to get the support of the National Power Corporation (NPC) Watershed Management Division in providing for the durian seedlings to be planted along the river’s path as part of its reforestation and agro-forestry program.


The program will benefit not only the local farmers with additional income but will also prevent soil erosion that contributes to river siltation, a major concern for the power company.


Presently, corn is the leading agricultural product of this municipality which enjoys a peaceful co-existence between its Muslim and Christian residents.


“I would like to congratulate the officials and people of Pantao Ragat for strengthening the bond between our Muslim and Christian brothers. Peace and unity should always be our top priority”, Rep. Dimaporo expressed.


According to the lady legislator, Pantao Ragat can already compete with Davao City for the title as Durian Capital of the Philippines within ten years from the start of the Agro-forestry Program if the people of this progressive community continue to plant and cultivate their durian trees.


For her part, Mayor Hadja Sittie Nesreen Lantud was very much appreciative of the visit of Congresswomen Dimaporo and for her efforts in bringing developmental projects to her municipality.  PIO-LDN