TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte – Motorists cruising along the National Highway here are being greeted by a fresh wave of roadside color. Over 80 sleek fiberglass pots have been installed on the center islands, replacing old concrete planters and transforming the city’s main artery into a more vibrant, welcoming corridor.
A Modern Touch for the City’s Gateway
The initiative, led by the City Agriculture Office under Mayor Rey T. Uy, swaps out heavy, cracking concrete for lightweight, durable fiberglass. Each median segment now features a distinct color, creating an organized and visually pleasing streetscape. The project is a direct investment in the city’s image, making daily commutes a little brighter.
City workers carefully positioned the new planters, filling them with robust decorative plants suited for the tropical climate. Unlike concrete, the fiberglass material withstands extreme heat and heavy rain without crumbling. This means less time and money spent on repairs and more on nurturing the greenery that defines Tagum’s public spaces.
Practical Beauty That Lasts
Fiberglass offers more than just good looks. Its lightweight nature makes the pots easier to move, clean, and rearrange when road maintenance is needed. The color-coding system helps organize the highway visually, guiding the eye along the stretch and giving each section a unique identity. For a city that prides itself on being the “Palm City of the South,” such details elevate the overall experience for residents and tourists alike.
The old concrete pots were prone to accumulating dirt and cracking under pressure. The new planters eliminate these eyesores, presenting a cleaner, more polished front. The City Agriculture Office teams have also improved the soil mix and plant selection, ensuring the center islands remain lush and healthy year‑round. It’s a simple upgrade with a significant impact on civic pride.
Cultivating a Greener, Happier City
This beautification effort is part of a broader push by the LGU to enhance public spaces and promote environmental stewardship. Well‑maintained medians do more than please the eye; they help reduce road stress, absorb heat, and contribute to a healthier urban ecosystem. The initiative also supports local workers involved in fabrication, landscaping, and maintenance.
The project’s playful local name, “Uy, Lantawa!”—a Bisaya expression meaning “Hey, Look!”—captures its spirit of cheerful invitation. It encourages everyone to pause and appreciate the small improvements that collectively make Tagum a more livable city. As the rollout continues, more concrete pots will be replaced, spreading the color further along the highway.
Residents and passing travelers have already noticed the change, with many taking to social media to express their approval. The vibrant planters are quickly becoming a signature of the city’s commitment to progress and beauty. In Tagum, even the daily drive is becoming a more delightful journey.
