President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. convened with Visayas governors and ‘One Cebu’ officials at the Cebu Provincial Capitol, emphasizing the critical role of unity in driving the nation’s development forward. Despite the inevitability of political disagreements, Marcos stressed the importance of a unified approach among government leaders to effectively serve and empower the Filipino people.
Marcos highlighted that the effectiveness of public officials is measured by their dedication to their mandate. He acknowledged the presence of differing opinions but urged officials to focus on the common goal of advancing the greater good. Marcos expressed his honor in serving as president and underscored the fulfillment derived from working alongside committed public servants to build a more efficient and compassionate government.
The President remains optimistic about his administration’s ambitious development plans, confident that strong collaboration between national and local governments will bring these initiatives to fruition. He encouraged local officials to act swiftly in implementing necessary reforms, emphasizing the need for integrity, responsibility, and passion in their service.
Marcos criticized the outdated notion of trickle-down economics, asserting that wealth distribution requires active initiatives from local government officials and public servants. He credited collaborative efforts for the progress seen across various industries, which have led to increased job and livelihood opportunities for Filipinos.
He praised the economic growth in the Visayas, noting Central Visayas as the fastest-growing region with a 7.3 percent expansion rate in 2023, and Eastern Visayas with a 6.4 percent growth rate, surpassing the national GDP growth for the same year. Despite these achievements, Marcos emphasized the ongoing need to develop sectors like tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing to sustain and enhance the country’s growth momentum.