PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, November 8, visited Boracay to lead the ceremonial distribution of Certficates of Land Ownership Award to 484 agrarian reform beneficiaries.
A total of 623 land ownership certificates were granted to 484 recipients, including indigenous peoples, for 274 hectares of land on Boracay Island.
In his speech, Duterte said the distribution of land ownership certificates brought him "great joy."
He assured that land beneficiaries would receive "greater access" to government's support services to help them become "more productive."
"Today, we acknowledge our farmers' important role in nation-building as they work tirelessly to ensure food security across the country. I assure you that this administration will continue to protect and uphold your right to own, control, secure, cultivate lands, and reap the benefits of the agricultural lands you till," the President said.
"I have directed all government agencies to work towards agricultural productivity and environmental integrity to the policies and program that will cascade to the countrymen. We must ensure that no one will be left behind in our quest for development that is inclusive and sustainable," he added.
Duterte also urged the agrarian reform beneficiaries to help the government build a "brighter and more progressive future" for the nation.
It was the first time that Duterte flew to Boracay since the world-famous resort island was reopened to tourists last October 26.
On April 26, Duterte ordered the temporary closure of the island to pave the way for the six-month rehabilitation and recovery of Boracay.
Duterte skipped Boracay's reopening on October 26 as he wanted to avoid fanfare over the island's rehabilitation. (SunStar Philippines)