Bacoor Residents Criticize City’s Spending Priorities Amid Dark Streets

BACOOR, Cavite — A resident has criticized the Bacoor city government’s budget priorities after complaints resurfaced about poorly lit major roads, even as holiday decorations bearing officials’ names have been installed across the city.

The resident said city officials cited budget constraints and the need to reduce electricity costs when asked about street lighting. However, funds appeared available for Christmas decorations featuring officials’ names, the resident said.

“It’s not decorations that will save lives, but proper and well-lit roads, especially on major thoroughfares,” the resident said, calling for clearer prioritization of public funds toward safety.

Bacoor, a densely populated city of over 700,000 residents in Cavite province, has faced recurring complaints about inadequate street lighting on major roads. The issue affects both residential areas and commercial districts, with residents citing safety concerns for motorists and pedestrians, particularly during evening hours.

Dark streets have been linked to traffic accidents and security problems in the city. Local officials have previously attributed lighting problems to budget limitations and rising electricity costs, though specific allocation figures for street lighting versus other expenditures have not been publicly detailed.

The contrast between unlit roads and decorated public spaces during the holiday season has intensified debate about spending priorities.