Becoming the premier center for agri-industry of eastern Batangas: how Rosario, Batangas can improve the quality of life for rural communities

Vision | Success Indicator 11 of 25 | Updated March 10, 2023 0700H PhST

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSARIO BATANGAS has a vision statement with both "outward-looking" and "inward-looking" components, ten vision elements, and 25 success indicators. However, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2-2030, Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) 2016-2025, and Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) of 2020-2022 and 2022-2025 iterations do not provide clear descriptions of these elements. Therefore, we will present our interpretation of these vision elements in a series of posts, using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update as a guide. Our goal is to show how achieving these vision elements can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. This is the eleventh post of a 25-part series. 

LET'S TALK ABOUT THE VISION ELEMENT: BECOMING THE PREMIER CENTER FOR AGRI-INDUSTRY OF EASTERN BATANGAS. This is the second of the five preferred development thrusts within the planning period 2016-2030 of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), and it falls within the "inward-looking" component of the vision statement of the Municipality of Rosario, Batangas.

Now, let's see how achieving this vision can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. We'll use three frameworks to guide our analysis: the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and the CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update.

Agri-industrialization refers to the process of transforming agriculture from being primarily focused on production for subsistence or small-scale local markets to a more commercialized, industrialized system that integrates agriculture with manufacturing and other economic sectors. This involves using modern technology, processes, and practices to increase efficiency, productivity, and profitability in the agricultural sector, and creating value-added products through processing and manufacturing. The goal of agri-industrialization is to create a more sustainable, diversified, and resilient agricultural system that can provide economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for rural communities.

Starting with the SDGs, we can see how the vision element of Becoming the Premier Center for Agri-Industry of Eastern Batangas aligns with several of the goals, particularly those related to ending poverty (Goal 1), promoting sustainable agriculture (Goal 2), fostering economic growth (Goal 8), and building sustainable communities (Goal 11). By developing a strong agri-industry sector, Rosario can create jobs, boost income, and increase access to nutritious food, all of which are critical for achieving these goals.

Moving on to the PDP, we can see that the vision element aligns with the plan's overall goal of "building a high-trust society that enjoys equitable social and economic opportunities through sound policies, efficient and transparent government services, and a resilient, sustainable, and competitive economy." By becoming a premier center for agri-industry, Rosario can contribute to the development of a more competitive and sustainable economy, which can lead to improved social and economic opportunities for its people.

Meanwhile, looking at the CALABARZON RDP, we can see that the vision element aligns with the plan's goal of "promoting inclusive growth through the development of key growth areas and industries." By becoming a premier center for agri-industry, Rosario can contribute to the development of a key growth area within the CALABARZON region, which can help drive economic growth and create new opportunities for its people.

At the local level, the Municipality of Rosario is strategically positioned to become the premier center for agri-industry in the region, and this aligns well with the Regional Physical Framework Plan: 2004-2030. As the center of the Batangas-Quezon Agri-based Cluster, Rosario has the potential to provide much-needed services to surrounding municipalities. Furthermore, the municipality's status as one of the three first class municipalities by income classification, in the Resource-Based Area Development Cluster (RBADC) sub-cluster, along with its proximity to Lipa City, makes it a natural urban development expansion path for the city.

Agriculture is the predominant land use in Rosario, covering 76.32% of the total land area in 2015, with farming and land cultivation as the most prevalent agricultural activities. Agricultural modernization is key to further improving traditional crop production and introducing high-yielding and high-value varieties of agricultural crops. Agricultural technology innovations should also be considered for sustainable development.

Agri-processing is a significant component of agri-industrialization, which will manage the surplus production of fruits, vegetables, and livestock or poultry products. Agri-processing activities will help intensify and upgrade agricultural production, and agri-based industries will be located within identified industrial zones or areas within Strategic Integrated Crop and Livestock Sub-Development Zones (SICLDZ) in the municipality. These industries will range from light to medium industry types only.

For environmental consideration, prime irrigated rice lands, rainfed rice land, and upland rice lands will be preserved perpetually for their present use as Rice Production Protection Areas. No large-scale conversion of these lands will be allowed, as they are sustainable lands that should be conserved and preserved. The use of environmentally friendly agricultural inputs and technologies, as well as the establishment of environmentally friendly industries, must always be monitored for sustainable development.

Under the current Zoning Ordinance of Rosario, Batangas, Agri-Industrial Zones are designated areas within the municipality that are primarily used for integrated farm operations and related product processing activities. These zones are often used for cultivating crops such as bananas, pineapple, sugar, and other agricultural products. The allowable uses/activities within the agri-industrial zones are:

01. Rice/corn mills
02. Rice/corn mill warehouses & solar dryers
03. Agricultural and/or agri-industrial research & experimentation facilities
04. Drying, cleaning, curing and preserving of meat and its by-products and derivatives
05. Drying, smoking and airing of tobacco
06. Flour mill
07. Cassava flour mill
08. Manufacture of coffee
09. Manufacture of unprepared animal feeds and other grain milling
10. Production of prepared feeds for animals
11. Cigar and cigarette factory
12. Curing and re-drying tobacco leaves
13. Miscellaneous processing of tobacco leaves not elsewhere classified in the Zoning Ordinance
14. Weaving hemp textile
15. Jute spinning and weaving
16. Manufacture of charcoal
17. Milk processing plants (manufacturing filled, reconstituted or recombined milk, condensed or evaporated)
18. Butter and cheese processing plants
19. Natural fluid milk processing (pasteurizing, homogenizing, vitaminizing, bottling of natural animal milk and cream-related products)
20. Other dairy products not elsewhere classified in the Zoning Ordinance
21. Canning and preserving of fruits and fruit juices
22. Canning and preserving of vegetables and vegetable juices
23. Canning and preserving of vegetable sauces
24. Miscellaneous canning and preserving of fruit and vegetables not elsewhere classified in the Zoning Ordinance
25. Fish canning
26. Patis factory
27. Bagoong factory
28. Processing, preserving, and canning of fish and other seafood not elsewhere classified in the Zoning Ordinance
29. Manufacture of desiccated coconut
30. Manufacture of starch and its products
31. Manufacture of wines from fruit juices
32. Vegetable oil mills, including coconut oil
33. Muscovado sugar mill
34. Cotton textile mill
35. Manufacture/processing of other plantation crops e.g. pineapple, bananas, etc.
36. Other commercial handicrafts and industrial activities utilizing plant or animal parts and/or products as raw materials
37. Other accessory uses incidental to agri-industrial activities
38. Sugarcane milling (centrifugal and refined)
39. Sugar refining
40. Customary support facilities such as palay dryers, rice threshers and storage barns and warehouses
41. Ancillary dwelling units/farmhouses for landowners. tenants, tillers and laborers
42. Class "A" slaughterhouse/abattoir
43. Class "AA" slaughterhouse/abattoir
44. Commercial raising of livestock and fowl, provided that:
        a. For livestock – 100 heads and above
        b. For fowl – 10,000 heads and above

WE BELIEVE that becoming the leading hub for agricultural and industrial activities in the eastern part of Batangas could involve a range of activities, including expanding the production of agricultural products, promoting agro-processing and manufacturing, and attracting businesses and investors in related industries. By focusing on the development of a strong agri-industry sector, Rosario can help improve the lives of its people and contribute to sustainable development. By aligning its vision with the SDGs, PDP, and CALABARZON RDP, Rosario can ensure that its efforts are well-coordinated and targeted toward achieving these important goals.

Becoming the premier center for commerce of Eastern Batangas: what's on the table for Rosario, Batangas

Vision | Success Indicator 10 of 25 | Updated March 05, 2023 1400H PhST

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSARIO BATANGAS has a vision statement with both "outward-looking" and "inward-looking" components, ten vision elements, and 25 success indicators. However, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2-2030, Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) 2016-2025, and Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) of 2020-2022 and 2022-2025 iterations do not provide clear descriptions of these elements. Therefore, we will present our interpretation of these vision elements in a series of posts, using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update as a guide. Our goal is to show how achieving these vision elements can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. This is the tenth post of a 25-part series.

SO, YOU'RE ASKING HOW BECOMING THE PREMIER CENTER FOR COMMERCE OF EASTERN BATANGAS can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. Well, let's break it down.

Becoming the premier center for commerce is actually one of the five preferred development thrusts within the planning period of 2016-2030 of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) of the Municipality of Rosario, Batangas. It falls under the "outward-looking" component of the vision statement. The CLUP discussed two approaches to accommodate future growth and population distribution: redevelopment of existing settlements and growth of other townships.

The urban growth dynamic shows that Rosario is experiencing a robust increase in urbanization, with several barangays reclassified from rural to urban. This CLUP even considered eight new barangays as urban settlements, expanding the urban areas. With the growth of the tourism industry, commerce and trade will also improve and must be responsive to the needs of these sectors. Thus, agriculture, industry, and tourism will induce commerce, trade, and industry.

Moreover, Rosario is considered a large municipality that exhibits high urbanization and economic growth while providing adequate and accessible space for food production, tourism industries, administrative services, residential subdivisions, and educational services. This ensures that the material and other requirements of its constituents are met.

Finally, the Urban Rosario Quadrant Development Zone Catchment Area considers itself the center of Eastern Batangas, with nine cities and municipalities from Batangas and Quezon falling within its service area. The urban growth centers of Alupay Business Center, San Isidro Commercial Center, and Calantas Community Hub are within its proximity, and it's accessible via existing secondary and tertiary class national roads.

So, in a nutshell, becoming the premier center for commerce of Eastern Batangas can lead to the growth and development of agriculture, industry, and tourism, which in turn can induce commerce, trade, and industry. This can ultimately improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity.

The above preferred development thrust is related to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update in several ways.

First, the commercial development thrust highlights how the municipality of Rosario can achieve its vision of becoming the Premier Center for Commerce of Eastern Batangas, which is aligned with the SDGs, PDP, and RDP. The development thrust discusses how the growth of agriculture, industry, and tourism in the area can induce commerce, trade, and industry, which can contribute to the economic growth and development of the region. This is in line with the goal of promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all (SDG 8).

Second, the commercial development thrust also emphasizes the need for appropriate infrastructure in aid of key production activities to support the growth of the area. This is consistent with the SDG 9, which aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.

Third, the commercial development thrust mentions the importance of providing adequate and accessible space for food production, tourism industries, administrative services, residential subdivisions, and educational services to meet the material and other requirements of the constituents. This aligns with the SDG 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

Fourth, the commercial development thrust highlights the importance of improving accessibility to and from other market and production centers, which is consistent with the SDG 9, which aims to enhance the international financial system, promote international trade, and facilitate access to information and communication technology.

Overall, the commercial development thrust provides a concrete example of how a municipality can align its development vision with the SDGs, PDP, and RDP to improve the lives of its people and contribute to sustainable development.

WE BELIEVE that Rosario, Batangas is aiming to position itself as a major player in the regional economy, with a focus on driving growth and development through increased commerce and business activity.

Optimal sports and recreation: its importance in building healthy and sustainable communities

Vision | Success Indicator 09 of 25 | Updated March 05, 2023 1400H PhST

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSARIO BATANGAS has a vision statement with both "outward-looking" and "inward-looking" components, ten vision elements, and 25 success indicators. However, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2-2030, Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) 2016-2025, and Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) of 2020-2022 and 2022-2025 iterations do not provide clear descriptions of these elements. Therefore, we will present our interpretation of these vision elements in a series of posts, using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update as a guide. Our goal is to show how achieving these vision elements can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. This is the ninth post of a 25-part series.

LET'S TALK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORTS AND RECREATION for the people of Rosario, Batangas.

Sports and recreation are essential for promoting physical and mental health, building social connections, and enhancing personal skills. By promoting and providing opportunities for sports and recreation, the community of Rosario can work towards achieving their vision of a prosperous and healthy society.

In fact, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognize the importance of sports and recreation in building healthy and sustainable communities. The goals highlight the need for accessible, inclusive, and safe spaces for sports and recreation, as well as the promotion of healthy lifestyles and physical activity.

The Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 and the CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update also emphasize the importance of sports and recreation in improving the quality of life of Filipinos, particularly in promoting physical and mental health, and building social connections.

According to the current Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2030, the Local Government Unit of Rosario places great importance on promoting sports and recreation, particularly among the youth, as a means for the community to engage in wholesome and healthful activities during their leisure time. The municipality boasts a variety of recreational facilities, including basketball courts (both public and private), volleyball courts, private tennis courts, swimming pools, billiard halls, cockpit arenas, a racing circuit, track and field facilities, a municipal park and playground, and a municipal library.

The Office of the Municipal Mayor has been actively organizing basketball and volleyball tournaments in the barangays, which have encouraged participation among constituents. The Municipal Women’s Coordinating Council has also been promoting sports activities for women, sponsoring inter-barangay volleyball tournaments, as well as other activities such as sack and ball relay, tug of war, and obstacle races.

By investing in sports facilities, organizing sports events and activities, and promoting healthy lifestyles, the community of Rosario can create a vibrant and active community. Not only will this improve the physical and mental well-being of the residents, but it will also create opportunities for social interaction and personal growth.

To institutionalize sports, recreation, arts, and culture management in the municipality, it is our recommendation that the Office of the Mayor create a Municipal Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture Unit (MSRACU) responsible for developing a comprehensive program for these sectors. This will provide a permanent place for sports, recreation, arts, and culture in the governance of the municipality.

According to the standard for a municipal park, which is 500 square meters per 1000 population, the municipality should have acquired at least 10.7 hectares of land by 2030. The existing Laurel Park, however, falls short of this standard, with an effective area for recreational purposes of only 5,700 square meters after deducting the portion used by the Municipal Trial Court and Regional Trial Court, the Prosecutors Office, and the Poblacion C Barangay Hall. Therefore, it is necessary for the municipality to acquire additional land to meet the standard and adequately provide for the recreational needs of its population.

Sports and recreation can also have economic benefits for the community. By attracting visitors to sports events and facilities, the community can generate revenue and support local businesses.

The Batangas Racing Circuit, located in Barangay Maligaya, offers an alternative venue for sports enthusiasts by featuring car racing and motocross events. This facility has become a distinguishing feature of the municipality, attracting visitors from neighboring areas and participation from racers, including famous movie actors and actresses, from Metro Manila.

WE BELIEVE that promoting optimal sports and recreation is a key success indicator of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas. By investing in these areas, the community can improve the quality of life of its residents, build a stronger social fabric, and create economic opportunities for the community.

Access to optimal housing: how the the people of Rosario can lead more prosperous lives and improve their overall well-being

Vision | Success Indicator 08 of 25 | Updated March 05, 2023 1230H PhST

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSARIO BATANGAS has a vision statement with both "outward-looking" and "inward-looking" components, ten vision elements, and 25 success indicators. However, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2-2030, Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) 2016-2025, and Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) of 2020-2022 and 2022-2025 iterations do not provide clear descriptions of these elements. Therefore, we will present our interpretation of these vision elements in a series of posts, using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update as a guide. Our goal is to show how achieving these vision elements can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. This is the eighth post of a 25-part series.

DID YOU KNOW THAT ACCESS TO OPTIMAL HOUSING is a key success indicator for the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas? By achieving this goal, the people of Rosario can lead more prosperous lives and improve their overall well-being.

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update serve as guides to help achieve this goal. By ensuring access to optimal housing, Rosario can fulfill several of these goals, including goal number 1: No Poverty, goal number 3: Good Health and Well-being, goal number 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, goal number 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and goal number 13: Climate Action.

The current Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2030 assessed that the residential areas generally provide an acceptable and habitable environment, with individual owners responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation. The local government also supplements these efforts. Garbage disposal is mainly done through recycling and composting by households, although some still resort to burning, despite its prohibition. 

While services and utilities such as water, power, and road networks are provided, coverage is less than 100%, especially in remote residential areas. In these areas, residents still rely on rivers and creeks for water, use kerosene and oil for lighting, and travel on foot or horseback to access transportation to nearby barangays.

However, the municipal government has prioritized addressing these concerns, as evidenced by their inclusion in the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) and Annual Investment Program (AIP). They are continuously working towards improving the conditions in these remote residential areas.

Structural qualities of residential houses are generally of acceptable quality.  Housing units made of concrete, semi-concrete to wood construction materials constitute up to 72% of the total occupied housing units.  Units made of mixed and light construction materials comprise the remaining portion.

Population growth and backlog may necessitate a total of 18,185 additional housing units, with the number of new units increasing steadily up to 2030.

A projected increase in residential land requirements of 729.45 hectares is expected by 2030. As a result, the proposed total residential area would be 1,644.10 hectares, up from the current 914.66 hectares. While the residential density is set to rise slightly from 128 persons per hectare to 130 persons per hectare, the municipality would still be classified as LOW-DENSITY/INTENSITY for residential purposes.

When people have access to optimal housing, they are more likely to be healthy and have better overall well-being. They can also access clean water and sanitation, which is essential for staying healthy. Additionally, by building sustainable cities and communities, Rosario can improve the quality of life for its residents and attract more economic opportunities.

WE BELIEVE that access to optimal housing is a crucial element of Rosario's vision statement, and achieving this goal can significantly improve the lives of its residents. By following the SDGs, PDP, and RDP, Rosario can create a better future for its people and continue to prosper.

Individual and collective safety: creating a safer and more secure environment for all residents of Rosario, Batangas

Vision | Success Indicator 07 of 25 | Updated March 05, 2023 1200H PhST

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSARIO BATANGAS has a vision statement with both "outward-looking" and "inward-looking" components, ten vision elements, and 25 success indicators. However, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2-2030, Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) 2016-2025, and Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) of 2020-2022 and 2022-2025 iterations do not provide clear descriptions of these elements. Therefore, we will present our interpretation of these vision elements in a series of posts, using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update as a guide. Our goal is to show how achieving these vision elements can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. This is the seventh post of a 25-part series.

NOW, LET'S TALK ABOUT INDIVIDUAL AND COLLECTIVE SAFETY as a success indicator of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas.

Individual and collective safety are essential components of any thriving community. When people feel secure and protected, they can focus on pursuing their goals and aspirations, which ultimately leads to greater prosperity.

In Rosario, Batangas, the vision statement emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and secure environment for all its residents. To achieve this goal, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update serve as valuable guides.

One of the primary ways to ensure individual and collective safety is by implementing effective law enforcement and crime prevention measures. This can include increased police presence, community policing initiatives, and educational programs to raise awareness about crime prevention.

In addition to staffing, upgrades to office areas and equipment are necessary, as well as improving the skills of the existing workforce through training. Prioritizing these areas is recommended. To support the goals of Gender and Development (GAD), the establishment of jail facilities for women and detention centers for minors is necessary.

Despite having the standard ratios of policemen and firemen to population, there remains a current demand for such personnel. Presently, the police force is lacking more officers, while the fire department requires additional firefighters and possibly, prison guards in the future. The municipality would also require additional fire trucks.

Moreover, individual and collective safety can also be improved by addressing underlying issues such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. These issues can contribute to the prevalence of crime and violence in a community. By implementing initiatives that address these root causes, such as providing job training and increasing access to education, the overall safety of the community can be improved.

Another important aspect of individual and collective safety is disaster preparedness. The Philippines is no stranger to natural disasters, and it's important for communities to be prepared for these events. This includes having evacuation plans, emergency supplies, and infrastructure in place to withstand disasters.

WE BELIEVE that individual and collective safety is a crucial success indicator of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas. By focusing on effective law enforcement, addressing underlying issues, and disaster preparedness, the community can create a safer and more secure environment for all its residents. Achieving these vision elements can ultimately lead to greater prosperity and a better quality of life for everyone in Rosario.

Optimal spiritual and cultural development: a key component of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas

Vision | Success Indicator 06 of 25 | Updated March 05, 2023 1200H PhST

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSARIO BATANGAS has a vision statement with both "outward-looking" and "inward-looking" components, ten vision elements, and 25 success indicators. However, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2-2030, Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) 2016-2025, and Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) of 2020-2022 and 2022-2025 iterations do not provide clear descriptions of these elements. Therefore, we will present our interpretation of these vision elements in a series of posts, using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update as a guide. Our goal is to show how achieving these vision elements can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. This is the sixth post of a 25-part series.

TODAY, LET US TALK ABOUT HOW SPIRITUAL AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT is a crucial component of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas, and how achieving this goal can lead to prosperity for the people of this community.

First of all, let's define what we mean by spiritual and cultural development. This encompasses a wide range of things, including the preservation of local traditions, the promotion of cultural diversity and inclusion, and the cultivation of personal values and beliefs.

Local historical narrative clearly indicates that formation of the town of Rosario is deep in spirituality and faith in God. 

There was a time in its early history that a group of men, women, and children fled from the coast of Lobo to escape the pursuing Moros of the south. They recited the rosary for divine protection and settled in Kansahayan River in Hilerang Kawayan of Taysan, naming the area Rosario after their practice. 

Due to the increasing Moro raids, the Dominican fathers relocated Rosario one league south of Lipa. The residents sought divine guidance and held a novena, relocating to the south bank of Tubig ng Bayan. This former town site became barrio Lumang Bayan and is presently the Municipality of Padre Garcia. 

The original town site, Pinagbayanan, remains present in the form of street layouts, marketplaces, church sites, and cemeteries. 

The officials noted the poor drainage and water supply of Rosario, and Don Melecio Bolaños planned to relocate the town to a more suitable site. Captain Ed H. Boughton discovered the ideal location at the southwest of Tombol Hill and, with the help of his fellow Americans and cooperation from the town's principal citizens, Rosario was planned. On June 9, 1902, the town's citizens met beside Tombol springs to formally reorganize the municipal government of Rosario (Note: For a more comprehensive discussion of the history of the Municipality of Rosario, please refer to the book authored by Mr. Conrado T. Reyes, Rosario of Batangas: Its Origin and Development).

Now, you may be wondering, how does this relate to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update?

Well, it turns out that these goals all recognize the importance of cultural and spiritual development in promoting sustainable, inclusive, and equitable development. By embracing cultural diversity and promoting local traditions, we can foster social cohesion, strengthen community ties, and promote a sense of belonging among the people of Rosario.

Moreover, optimal spiritual and cultural development can help to promote human rights, social justice, and equal opportunities for all. By valuing diversity and promoting inclusion, we can create a society that is more tolerant, more accepting, and more equitable.

Finally, promoting spiritual and cultural development can also have important economic benefits. By showcasing local traditions and cultural practices, we can promote tourism and economic development, and create new opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

The municipality has a long-standing tradition of celebrating cultural events that reflect the values of its people. Every year on October 7th, Rosario observes its town fiesta, a special occasion that pays tribute to Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, the patron saint of the town.

During the Lenten season, the community comes together to commemorate Holy Week, a solemn and deeply meaningful celebration. The Penitensyahan ROSARIO is a major part of this event, where residents from different barangays join in parading giant mock-ups through the streets of Rosario. Many of the town's old-time residents also return home to participate in rituals such as Pabasa, never-ending processions, Stations of the Cross, the dance of the Virgins on Easter Sunday, and the salubong. These traditions serve as a poignant reminder of the town's rich cultural heritage and the enduring faith of its people.

WE BELIEVE that optimal spiritual and cultural development is a key component of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas, and achieving this goal can have important social, economic, and cultural benefits for the people of this community. By embracing cultural diversity and promoting inclusion, we can create a society that is more sustainable, more equitable, and more prosperous for all.

Investing in education: how Rosario can improve the lives of its people, reduce poverty and inequality, and lead them towards prosperity

Vision | Success Indicator 05 of 25 | Updated March 05, 2023 1230H PhST

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSARIO BATANGAS has a vision statement with both "outward-looking" and "inward-looking" components, ten vision elements, and 25 success indicators. However, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2016-2-2030, Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) 2016-2025, and Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) of 2020-2022 and 2022-2025 iterations do not provide clear descriptions of these elements. Therefore, we will present our interpretation of these vision elements in a series of posts, using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update as a guide. Our goal is to show how achieving these vision elements can improve the lives of the people of Rosario and lead to prosperity. This is the fifth post of a 25-part series.

EDUCATION IS A FUNDAMENTAL HUMAN RIGHT that plays a vital role in shaping the future of individuals and communities. It is also one of the key success indicators of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas, as it is closely aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update.

The vision statement of Rosario, Batangas includes the goal of providing an environment conducive to learning and development. This includes ensuring that quality education is accessible to all residents, regardless of their socio-economic status. By prioritizing education, Rosario aims to improve the lives of its people and lead them towards prosperity.

In 2015, the school-going population of Rosario, Batangas numbered 54,228 and encompassed students from pre-school, elementary, secondary, senior high school, and tertiary levels. The elementary level was the largest age group, making up 15% of the total, followed by pre-schoolers, secondary level, senior high school, and tertiary level, with shares ranging from 4-10%. In addition, the number of males in this age group exceeded the number of females.

Moreover, approximately 91.7% of the household population aged 10 and above in Rosario are literate, and the literacy rates for both males and females are almost equal.

Thus, the municipality of Rosario may also consider the possibility of establishing a university and undertaking a feasibility study, focusing on the tertiary-level school-going age population. As part of this initiative, the municipality may also allocate 5 hectares of land as the university site.

According to the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, education is a key driver of inclusive growth and sustainable development. The plan emphasizes the importance of providing equitable access to quality education at all levels, from preschool to tertiary education. The plan also recognizes the need to improve the quality of education, particularly in terms of teacher training and development, curriculum design, and the provision of necessary learning resources.

Similarly, the CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update highlights the importance of education as a key driver of economic growth and development in the region. The plan recognizes the need to provide quality education and training programs that are responsive to the needs of the labor market and the economy.

By prioritizing education, Rosario can unlock its full potential for growth and development. Education can help improve the quality of life of its residents by providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life. Education also promotes social mobility and helps reduce poverty and inequality.

Moreover, education can serve as a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship, enabling individuals to create new products and services that can drive economic growth and job creation. Through education, Rosario can build a skilled workforce that is competitive and adaptable to the changing demands of the global economy.

WE BELIEVE that optimal education is a critical success indicator of the vision statement of Rosario, Batangas. By investing in education, Rosario can improve the lives of its people, reduce poverty and inequality, and lead them toward prosperity. By aligning its education initiatives with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, and CALABARZON Regional Development Plan (RDP): 2017-2022 Midterm Update, Rosario can ensure that its education programs are relevant, responsive, and sustainable for the long-term benefit of its residents.