LA CARLOTA CITY, Negros Occidental — Vice President Sara Duterte joined the Pasalamat Festival here on Monday night.

In her message to the crowd, Duterte said celebrations like this is a testament that the country is again open for the usual gatherings post-pandemic.

“The 41st Pasalamat Cultural Festival affirms La Carlota City's resilience, solidarity, and thanksgiving. It is a moment to give thanks for the blessings we have received and to celebrate the diversity of our cultures,” she said.

She also said the city’s “most notable achievements is its agriculture industry,” and is being known for its vast sugarcane farms.

“But you have made significant progress in supporting sustainable agriculture practices and crop diversification, which will aid in the development and sustainability of your regional economy,” she added.

The Vice President, who earlier attended the 23rd Pagbana-ag Festival in the neighbouring Hinoba-an town, called for the need of livelihood and employment among residents so they will not be lured by illegal activities.

She also cited the importance of education among children as key to better life opportunities.

Duterte, who is also the Secretary of Education, reiterated the goal of the creation of the Department of Education’s MATATAG agenda which will hone young children to be patriotic and serve the country.

“Sa taong ito, inilunsad ng Department of Education ang MATATAG agenda na naka-angkla sa Basic Education Development Plan 2030,” she said.

“Ang MATATAG agenda ay ang ating tugon sa agarang pangangailangang ihanda ang ating kabataang Pilipino na maging matatag, may kakayahang matuto, at umangkop bilang mga magiging pinuno at manggagawa ng bansa,” she added.