The real estate magnate, who finished his second term as senator last June 30, said that he never saw in other Philippine cities what he witnessed in Balanga’s activity center.
In here are the Galeria Victoria mall, the soon-to-open Plaza de San Jose, Centre Plaza Mall, city hall, Plaza Mayor de Balanga, and the St. Joseph Cathedral—which were all built to resemble a thriving Spanish metropolis.
“I have visited many cities in the Philippines but this is really the most beautiful,” Villar said. “We can contest that this is the most beautiful city in the Philippines.”
The senator, whose mother hailed from Orani town, opened the three-story, 300 square meter library together with Governor Abet, Mayor Joet, and guests from national government agencies, non-government organizations, and private sector.
According to the city mayor, the strategic location of the library being surrounded by malls and leisure areas will help win back students into studying and reading.
“The location is unique because whether you are from the church, the mall, city hall, you can go to the library. This is near [Bataan Peninsula State University]. We really want to help students especially those who don’t have the facilities at home for study and research,” said Mayor Garcia.
About 20 laptop computers with internet access can be used for free in the library. There are also sections for children, high school and college plus an area for meetings. The roof deck serves as the lounge for students.
Garcia added that the city government did not spend a dime in building the Interactive Fountain as the P6 million fund came from donations including that of Villar.
