Aklan is the "golden province" of the Philippines -PGMA
Kalibo, Aklan -For contributing much to the wealth and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo called Aklan the "Golden Province" of the Philippines.
She expressed this declaration when she spoke before throngs of Aklanons during the commemorative program held April 25 at the ABL Sports Complex here in celebration of Aklan's golden anniversary as a separate province from Capiz.
In emphasizing Aklan's big role in revenue generation, PGMA cited the case of Spain which earns more from tourism than Saudi Arabia earns from oil. "That is how much Boracay is earning for Aklan and the whole Philippines," stressed PGMA.
"Boracay has made a big difference in the lives of the people of Aklan since 2002 and I am very proud that the change in your life happened during my term. As the number 1 tourist destination, it is my prayer that Boracay will spread the gold and be the hub of development in Aklan, all over Panay including Antique which is only 45 minutes drive away. But when we talk about tourism, we're not only talking about the beach, the resorts - we're also talking about the products you can sell the tourists. I hope your bamboo, piña, abaca and other great products will find their way to the hotels, restaurants, and the souvenir shops in Boracay."
PGMA also noted the multiplier effect of Boracay which is so wide that could benefit other towns. "Excess tourists can still swim in Boracay but could stay in mainland Caticlan, Buruanga, Nabas, Pandan, Libertad and therefore spread development not only in Panay but in other provinces like Romblon.
She also told the Aklanons that because people had been coming to Boracay, they have also discovered Aklan's scenic spots. "Your scenic spots in Aklan are top rate natural advantages that must be optimized in accordance with the principle of sustainable development. But tourists also come to Aklan not only for the natural wonders but they also come due to the natural warmth of Aklanons, and I thank you for your hospitality."
Before her speaking engagement at the ABL Sports Complex, PGMA first inaugurated the P139 million expanded and upgraded Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital, the provincial hospital of Aklan.
She also distributed 25 educational vouchers to the Department of Education here. Too, she announced her instruction to the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to turn over to the province the management and operations of the P60-million port, a move which was much appreciated by Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez
With PGMA during this latest visit to the province were Antique Governor Sally Zaldivar Perez, Aurora Province Governor Bella Angara Castillo, DPWH Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., DepEd Secretary Fe Hidalgo and PA for Western Visayas Lito Coscoluella.
This is the second time that PGMA graced the Aklan Day celebration. In 2002, she was here upon the invitation of Aklan leaders headed by then Governor now Rep. Florencio T. Miraflores
Aklan became a separate province from Capiz 50 years ago when then President Ramon Magsaysay signed Republic Act 1414, realized through a bill filed by then Congressman Godofredo P. Ramos. For this, Ramos is hailed the "Father of Aklan."
PGMA also visited April 25 the provinces of Romblon and Antique.
(PIA/vgvillanueva)