The island province of Guimaras has launched its local economic development roadmap dubbed ONE Guimaras: Convergence for Sustainable Agri-Fishery and Eco-Tourism Development.

The launch, held at the Provincial Capitol Gym on Thursday, Aug. 25, was graced by Vice President Sara Duterte, Senior Deputy House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and other members of Congress.

The roadmap contains recalibrated programs, projects, and activities that aim to promote the province as the major agri-eco tourism destination in Western Visayas.

According to Governor JC Rahman Nava, the support of national leaders helped open new doors for Guimaras to access opportunities offered by the national government.

He is expecting that One Guimaras will create a vibrant and sustainable economic development through enhanced agro-industrial productivity, globally competitive workforce, and improved infrastructure and internet connectivity.

“The presence of VP Sara, Senior Deputy House Speaker Arroyo will further strengthen our campaign to position Guimaras as a ‘Resilient Agri-eco tourism Capital in the Philippines,'” Nava said.

Meanwhile, Duterte lauded Gumaras for taking advantage of its natural resources.

“I believe that Guimaras is not only a place where you can find the best variety of mangoes. The local government officials and the people of the island promote the bamboo industry,” she said

“This initiative is a good source of income and livelihood. We need to re-ignite the economy of our country and together bounce back stronger,” Duterte further said.

In her message, Congresswoman Ma. Lucille Nava said she was grateful that the Vice President and her fellow House members were able to attend the event.

“I know that in this visit, mas mapadayon kag may masanag nga palaabuton kag bwas damlag ang probinsya sang Guimaras.”

After the launch, Duterte visited Jordan Elementary School where she distributed and turned over 500 school bags with supplies as part of their PagbaBAGo gift-giving.

A total of 500 Grade 1 and Grade 7 students received the supplies while 500 mothers of learners and 500 IWAG members got relief goods.

“Ang mga bags na ito ay binigay ko sa inyo para maging inspirasyon sa inyo. Ito ay instrumento lamang para mag pursige pa kayo sa pag aaral,” Duterte said.

“Dapat niyong tandaan na kayo ang makakatulong sa sarili niyo para makapag tapos ng pag-aaral, ” the vice president disclosed,” she added.IMT