SIQUIJOR ISLAND -- Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday underscored people-government teamwork in nurturing the vast potentials of this island and providing growth possibilities for the people.

“Both the local government and the people should trust each other and together create a better life on the island,” Duterte said as she joined the municipality in its celebration of its 50th year.

The capital town will celebrate its golden anniversary tomorrow, September 12.

Citing the opportunities of Siquijor as a booming island-province, Duterte emphasised that strengthened partnerships between Siquijodnons and the government will bring in more development and will anchor the people to progress, ensuring 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 its government for the Island of Siquijor to reach its potentials and implement the plans and programs effectively and successfully,” she added.

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 added.

OVP MEDIA