Press Release
Embassy of India
Manila
Ambassador Shri Harsh Kumar Jain turned over a newly constructed Health Station in Barangay Aluling, Municipality of Cervantes, Ilocos Sur, to Mayor Atty. Mary Joyce P. Maggay on 18 May 2026.
The project, implemented under the India–Philippines Quick Impact Projects (QIP) framework, is part of India's grant assistance to support community-level socio-economic development initiatives across the Philippines. The Health Station, constructed at a cost of PHP 2.5 million, is among the six projects under the first cycle of QIP initiative, with the Memoranda of Agreement signed in July 2024 between the Embassy of India and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) of the Philippines.
The new Health Station is expected to benefit over 1,700 residents of Barangay Aluling and residents of the surrounding barangays of Cervantes by strengthening community healthcare services and improving access to basic medical care.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Jain underscored that the facility is part of the broader vision of the strategic partnership between the two countries that seeks not only economic growth, but also human development, social inclusion, and shared prosperity. He commended the DILG and the Municipality of Cervantes for the timely and efficient completion of the project.
The event was attended by Hon’ble Jeremias Singson, Governor of Ilocos Sur, Mr. Jonathan Paul Leusen Jr., Regional Director, DILG, among other officials from the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur, the DILG, the Municipality of Cervantes, and local barangay leaders and health workers.
Governor Singson expressed his gratitude to the Government of India for extending support to the people of Cervantes, especially Barangay Aluling and highlighted the importance of collaboration and unity in building stronger and more resilient communities. Regional Director Leusen Jr. read out message from the DILG Secretary Hon’ble Junaito Victor Remulla who noted that the QIP will serve as a lasting instrument of progress and development for the community.
In her acceptance speech, Mayor Maggay, on behalf of the Municipal Government and the people of Cervantes, conveyed deep gratitude to the Government of India for its generosity. She described the facility as "a beacon of hope, empowerment and opportunity" for Barangay Aluling and the entire municipality. They noted that the new health station would significantly enhance the delivery of essential healthcare services to the people of Barangay Aluling.
The initiative aligns with the Plan of Action for the India–Philippines Strategic Partnership for 2025–2029, signed during the State Visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to India in August 2025. It underscores the shared commitment of India and the Philippines to promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development at the community level.
Manila
20 May 2026
