President Benigno Aquino has approved a P10 million additional fund for the construction of the Oriental Mindoro legislative building.

Governor Alfonso Umali led the groundbreaking rites in Barangay Camilmil in Calapan City, where the new Batasang Panlalawigan building will rise, replacing the old Benigno Aquino Hall.

Umali, president of the League of Governors of the Philippines, said its construction is part of Aquino’s promise to look into the development needs of Oriental Mindoro. The capital Calapan City serves as the center of the Mimaropa region.

Vice-Governor Humerlito A. Dolor said the legislative building will serve as the official headquarters of the vice governor and members of the provincial board members.

At the same time, it will serve as extension offices of the two congressional representatives of Oriental Mindoro, Dolor said.

The Provincial Library, Oriental Mindoro Blood Council, vice-mayors league will also be housed in the Batasang Panlalawigan building, he added.

The construction of the building is expected to be finished by end of 2011.