OVP/ PNS — Vice President Noli “Kabayan” De Castro yesterday paid tribute to the people of Bohol during the celebration of the province’s 154th Foundation Day at the Bohol Cultural Center in Tagbilaran City. De Castro was the Guest of Honor and Speaker during the province’s commemorative program with the theme, “Panag-dait ug Panag-hiusa sa Mausawagong Bohol” (Working Together for a United and Prosperous Bohol).
During his message recently (July 22), De Castro congratulated the people of Bohol, led by Governor Erico Aumentado, for putting the Philippines in the world map. He also cited the governance legacies of its native sons and former leaders of the country, like Datu Sikatuna and former President Carlos P. Garcia, who upheld the values of austerity and nationalism through the Filipino First policy.
“In the 154 years of Bohol’s existence, it has contributed much to the country by giving us a rich source of historical pride and world class tourist destinations,” VP Noli said, noting that the Chocolate Hills may soon become one of the wonders of the world.
During the program, De Castro witnessed the conferment of Datu Sikatuna awards to Dr. Lucio Tan, Mr. Lance Gokongwei, Ms. Beatriz Zobel de Ayala and Atty. Oscar Sevilla, distinguished people from different fields who have contributed to the development of the Bohol province.
In his visit to Bohol, De Castro also awarded checks from the Pag-IBIG Fund for the development of three housing projects in the province. These low-cost housing projects – the Bethany Village in Tiptip, Tagbilaran City, GMG Homes Subdivision in Guindulman, and Claraville Subdivision in Ubay – are intended for employees of the local government, teachers and policemen as well as overseas and private employees of the said municipalities and neighboring towns.
Earlier, VP Noli inspected prices of basic commodities at the Dao Public Market as well as in the nearby supermarket of Island City Mall (ICM) in Tagbilaran City.
Finally, in line with the celebration of the Bohol Foundation Day, the Vice President had the first view of the Regional Trade Fair organized by the Department of Trade and Industry under the One Town, One Product or OTOP program. The Fair, which runs from July 23 until July 27 at the ICM, showcases different products of Bohol and other towns and provinces in Central Visayas.