At least 200 municipal mayors from Mindanao are in Cebu for a 3-day League of Municipalities of the Philippines–Mindanao Island Cluster Conference from August 6 to August 8.
Gov. Gwen Garcia was elated at the opportunity to accord a warm Cebuano welcome as she prepared a dinner reception for the mayors at the Capitol on August 7.
The mayors will be staying here for a 4-day conference from August 6 to 9 to discuss and share strategies, insights, and best practices for sustainable development in Mindanao. The event is sanctioned by the DILG pursuant to Section 496 of RA 7160, or the “Local Government Code of 1991.”
“Many years ago, managsuon nata. Sa mga umaabot nga mga katuigan, magpadayon kining atong panag-inigsuonay,” Gov. Gwen said in her speech.
The governor was talking about the great migration from Cebu as well as other parts of the Visayas and Luzon to Mindanao during the American rule up until the time of President Manuel L. Quezon.
This historical event was the reason why there are many Cebuano-speaking people in Mindanao today, since many Cebuanos of old heeded the government’s call for them to come to Mindanao and make the land productive.
“We chose Cebu because of the warm welcome and hospitality of the people of Cebu,” said La Paz Mayor Joseph Blando, LMP national president.
He was joined by LMP Vice President for Mindanao, Mayor Jason John Joyce of the Municipality of Jose Abad Santos in Davao Occidental; LMP-Cebu Chapter President, Daanbantayan Mayor Sun Shimura; and Cebu Provincial Board Members.
“Balik-balik kayo dito palagi. You are welcome always to be back with us. After all, mga managsuon baya ta, mga pinalangga mo namo nga mga igsuon,” said Gov. Gwen.
In a gesture of gratitude, the LMP-Mindanao Island Cluster mayors presented Gov. Gwen with a hand-woven piña cloth from Aklan, honoring her as the top-performing governor in the Philippines.
The evening also featured vibrant performances showcasing Cebuano festivals, highlighting the rich culture and tradition of the province. I Jude Torres