President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (Noel Pabalate)

For Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, President Marcos' recent visit to Mindanao was a big step toward healing and reconciliation. 

"We express our gratitude to President Bongbong Marcos for his visit to Mindanao and his sincere concern for its people. The visit signifies a hopeful step towards healing and achieving peace and reconciliation in our nation," Barbers said in a statement Saturday, Feb. 10. 

Earlier this week, Marcos visited Davao City, home turf of the Dutertes. The Chief Executive went to Davao amid tensions with former president Rodrigo Duterte, who recently launched tirades against him. 

Marcos is Duterte's direct successor. 

Barbers noted that Marcos' presence in Mindanao also came at a time of various pressing issues. These issues need to be addressed, said the Nacionalista Party (NP) stalwart. 

"These include improving agricultural productivity through necessary support and irrigation, developing tourism infrastructure to attract visitors from both local and international destinations, and ensuring access to healthcare and education by constructing hospitals and school buildings. These priorities require our utmost attention and dedication," Barbers said. 

"We thank President Bongbong Marcos for physically witnessing the realities faced by our people in Mindanao. We extend our thanks to the President and join our fellow citizens in their call for unity, progress, and development," added the Mindanao solon.