PILAR, Bataan, Philippines — The renovation and beautification of the dilapidated municipal hall here is now under way and local officials said this reflects a new face of Pilar – from a sleepy town into one of the province’s fastest-developing areas.

While a political opponent of Mayor Charlie Pizarro is apparently not supportive of rehabilitating the municipal hall, Engr. Del Mendoza who made the blueprint of the reconstruction project said the local government will reap gains upon its completion.

“This is the first time in many years that such an infrastructure project has been implemented successfully, making Pilar town an envy of others,” Pizarro said.

A total of P37 million will be spent for the complete renovation of the Municipal Hall and the historic flaming sword, a symbol of Pilar’s heroism.

“It’s not just the renovation of the building but the landscape and purchase of office equipment and, as well. This beautification project will also improve the ‘flaming sword’ (a landmark on municipal hall grounds),” said the mayor.

He cited Horam Abi Construction, the contractor of the project, for having a reputation for exemplary building works and lamented certain political quarters who have been spreading misinformation to the public about the credibility of the project.