VP Duterte stresses people-gov't ties key to growth during Siquijor visit
Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday, Sept. 11, underscored the need for stronger people-to-government relations in improving the lives of Siquijodnons and maximizing the potentials of the island.

Duterte, who serves as Education chief in a concurrent capacity, said this as she attended the municipality’s celebration of its 50th year.
“Both the local government and the people should trust each other and together create a better life on the island.”
The capital town, a prime tourist spot, will celebrate its golden anniversary on Monday, Sept. 12.
The partnership between Siquijodnons and the government will bring more development to the island-province and make sure that “no Siquijodnon will be left behind.”
“To achieve this vision, we must create spaces and opportunities for our people — allowing them to become productive citizens and partners in building our nation,” Duterte said.
“The people of Siquijor should rally behind each other and support their government for the Island of Siquijor to reach its potentials and implement the plans and programs effectively and successfully,” she added.
The Vice President noted how the Siquijodnons were able to show “vigor and stood up to keep the culture, the traditions and faith of the people, the quiet and peace, and the magic of the island alive despite the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and Typhoon “Odette”.
“As the economy reopens, it is also high time to string together these potentials and bring them to the frontier of the progress of the island that is pulsing with the dynamism of its people,” she said.
Duterte, who was on her first visit to the island, noted that tourism and the people are the municipality’s strength.
“Tourism remains one of your strengths. I hope tourism will create waves and waves of growth post-pandemic — benefiting everyone on the island,” she said before officials, employees, and residents.
“But let me emphasize this— everyone is your most valued strength. With everyone around each other, the possibilities are boundless. And the changes that we can make are enormous,” she concluded.