Miguel Coelho is the candidate for the Boliqueime Parish Council

Last Friday, July 11th, next to the Boliqueime Sports Pavilion, the “Do Better” Coalition officially announced Miguel Baguinho Coelho’s candidacy for president of the Boliqueime Parish Council.

Miguel Baguinho Coelho , a 47-year-old businessman and current member of the Loulé Municipal Assembly, is a native of Boliqueime and has a background deeply connected to associations and civic engagement. He was a member of the first senior roller hockey team of the Boliqueime Sports Club, a member of the Boliqueime Folklore Group for ten years, and is the current president of the Boliqueime School Parents and Guardians Association.

During his presentation, Miguel Baguinho Coelho stated that he was running with the "ambition of helping to build a more caring, fair, and dynamic parish." He also emphasized that "doing better means setting priorities, listening, engaging, and acting seriously, emphasizing the idea that change begins with small, everyday decisions."

During the session, some of the coalition's proposals for the parish were also presented, defined based on consultation with the local population.

Hélder Martins, candidate for mayor of Loulé, analyzed the current situation in the parish, highlighting key areas such as accessibility, water and sanitation, housing, security, the economy, social support, youth, and sports.

In terms of accessibility, he highlighted as a priority "investment in a new access to the A22, which includes four lanes, a central divider, a cycle path and a pedestrian walkway, ensuring safety and functionality for all forms of mobility."

Regarding water supply and sanitation, he emphasized that "it is essential that it be extended to the entire parish, particularly to areas like Maritenda and Benfarras." He criticized the current government's inaction: "The project was presented in 2019, and since March 2020, the municipality has had authorization to proceed with the works." He lamented that, five years later, nothing has been done, assuring that with the "Do Better Coalition," this project will be completed.

In the social area, he stated: "In the last 12 years, no new homes have been built in the municipality, with only one daycare center having been supported." He affirmed that conditions exist to move forward with new social facilities, not only in Boliqueime, but also in Vale Silves and other areas of the municipality. He also advocated for "support for families by financing tuition fees for young people up to a certain income level" and announced "a health plan for the senior population," which will be detailed in due course.

In the sports sector, he committed to "renovating the soccer field and expanding the sports facility, including the construction of a new pavilion." He believes this is a project "that has been frozen for too long and deserves to be unblocked."

Regarding security, he proposed "the creation of 45 positions for Municipal Police officers throughout the municipality" and the "installation of a Municipal Police station in Boliqueime, increasing police presence and proximity to citizens."

Economically, Hélder Martins considered "the revitalization and development of the Boliqueime business district" a priority. He believes the area can establish itself "as an economic driver for the parish and municipality, with the capacity to attract investment, create jobs, and strengthen local entrepreneurial activity." He further emphasized: "This investment is essential to diversify the economy and retain a young, active population in the parish."

Regarding housing, he classified it as an "absolute priority," advocating for the planning and construction of "new buildings not only in Boliqueime, but throughout the municipality, using modern techniques that allow for shorter construction times and the placement on the market of affordable housing that meets the true needs of the population."

The session also featured interventions from other members of the candidacy. Silvério Guerreiro, candidate for president of the Municipal Assembly, argued that "the Municipal Assembly is a space for defending parishes" and assured that "Boliqueime deserves more." He added: "This is a unifying project, where everyone is welcome."

Mendes Bota, the campaign manager, highlighted Miguel Baguinho Coelho's qualities, highlighting the candidate's "competence, courage, and seriousness," which he considers essential for governing with truth.

Bárbara Amaral Correia, a member of parliament elected by the Democratic Alliance for the Faro constituency, recalled that "parishes are the foundation of democracy" and that "investing in Boliqueime is investing in the cohesion of the municipality and the well-being of its people."

Pedro Sá, leader of the JSD, called for youth mobilization: "The young people of Boliqueime need answers that this coalition is ready to implement."

The meeting concluded with an informal gathering, where the candidates listened to the public's opinions and concerns. For Hélder Martins, these sessions "are a simple and authentic way to connect directly with the public," allowing for input and ideas to be presented. Despite the public presentation, he emphasized: "The electoral program is still under construction, being developed with the public, in a participatory process without unnecessary protagonism, so that everyone feels truly included."

The next public session of the “Do Better” Coalition is already scheduled for Saturday, July 19, in Almancil.