PENAMPANG: Ever since its elevation to a Municipal Council in January this year, efforts to transform Donggongon township into a more lively and vibrant space have not stopped.
There is a bustling Sunday Market (Tamu), live music from a two-piece band and a Saturday night market was launched on April 26.
While the improvements are seen as positive, certain areas still show signs of neglect.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});For instance, near the bus station and wet market, an abandoned stage sits in a state of disrepair.
Litter, stray bags, and discarded items have piled up in the area, giving it an unkempt and neglected appearance. There is also a makeshift dwelling, with clothes hanging on lines and bags strewn about, suggesting someone may be using the space as shelter.
Adjacent to the abandoned area is a circular cemented spot, which appears to serve no clear purpose. Despite its prominent location, it has remained unused and locals are wondering its intended purpose.
Then, there is the road leading to the area which is in poor condition with large holes in the centre. The road is frequently used as a parking spot for buses that transport residents from Penampang to various destinations, yet the road remains not repaired.
One resident asked, “Why hasn’t this road been repaired?
With buses constantly passing through here, why is no one addressing this?”
The neglect of both the road and nearby areas highlights the gaps in the town’s ongoing revitalisation efforts.
While efforts to change the township are commendable, the abandoned and neglected spaces serve as a reminder of the work still to be done to truly revitalize the area.
Residents and visitors alike hope the local authorities would address the concerns to ensure the township becomes a more inviting and well-maintained place.
