LIBERAL Party standard bearer Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III cited Saturday the potentials of the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos) as a tourist destination in Mindanao.
"It's only a 15-minute ride from Davao City. We do not see why it shouldn't be a tourist destination in the country," Aquino said in an interview during his visit to the island on Saturday.
"Aminadong marami pang gagawin dito, kailangan pang ayusin ang mga daanan. Kailangan ring palakasin pa ang lokal na kapabilidad para sa mga touristang dadagsa rito. Jobs will be generated through tourism. This shouldn't take long to develop. Kayang pagandahin pa ang Samal island," he added.
Some 3,000 Samaleños braved the scorching heat of summer on Saturday to show their support to Aquino, whom they believe can bring change in the country.
Young and old Aquino supporters, most of them were clad in yellow, filled the Babak Gym in Igacos amid the intense heat of the sun.
Mayoral bet Igacos Vice Mayor Orly Amit, a strong supporter of Aquino, said the senator was the first among the 10 presidential aspirants to visit Igacos.
"Tuwang-tuwa tayo na pinagbigyan yung request natin at pinaunlakan ang ating request. We feel very special na pumunta talaga siya rito. Dako kaayo ning kalamboan para sa Samal kay dili mawala sa iyang kasingkasing ang mga tao diri pag naa na siya sa Malacañang. (This is a great opportunity for Samal because he'll remember the people in his heart when he's already in Malacañang)" said Amit, expressing confidence that Aquino will win.
Aquino, who came without his running mate Senator Manuel "Mar" Roxas, said they divided their campaign that day.
While he toured Southern Philippines, Roxas was touring Northern Mindanao, Aquino said. (JCZ)