TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental — Former Governor Chavit Singson, known for his pivotal role in developing the tourism sector in Ilocos Sur, expressed his commitment to usher in a new era of economic prosperity for Misamis Occidental and other deserving regions of Mindanao during a recent press conference at Asenso Global Park.

Accompanied by local government officials, including Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal, Mayor Indy Oaminal of Ozamiz City, and Mayor Sabiniano Canama of Tangub City, Singson’s words last Wednesday, 18 December, resonated with hope and determination. He articulated his vision to attract investments to the countryside, moving away from the conventional practice of hoarding wealth.

"We cannot bring those money to the graves," Chavit emphasized in the vernacular, his words carrying the weight of truth and urgency.

With a blend of charisma and practicality, he reached out to businessmen in highly urbanized centers, urging them to redirect their resources towards the untapped potential in Mindanao. His experience in transforming Ilocos Sur’s economy through strategic tourism development lent credibility to his vision. But Chavit’s commitment extended beyond words. He engaged with public transport organizations, offering electric motorcycles at significantly lower costs. With genuine concern for the well-being of drivers and their families, he ensured these vehicles would not only serve as a means of livelihood but also as a lifeline for daily necessities.

"My electric vehicles are much lower in price. Through a specially designed loan program, they are half the cost of those available in the market. I offer them to support you, the hardworking drivers, in fulfilling your family needs," Manong Chavit, as he is fondly called, said, touching the hearts of transport organization members who applauded him.

Manong Chavit’s aspirations for the countryside transcended mere promises. With his sights set on a Senate seat in the upcoming mid-term elections, he embodied the hope of a brighter future for Mindanao. His proven track record in Ilocos Sur suggested he possessed the skills and experience to replicate those successes in Mindanao.

Drawing comparisons to countries like China and South Korea, Chavit noted their effective tourism strategies and the importance of adopting such best practices in Mindanao. He maintained that diplomatic negotiations remain key to achieving lasting peace, which is essential for attracting investors to the region. Manong Chavit emphasized that sustained peace is crucial for unlocking Mindanao’s full tourism potential.

“Disiplina ang kailangan natin at matuto tayo sa ibang nation. Like itong Philippine Sea away-away. Hindi maganda 'yan. Madadamay lang tayo sa away. Dapat diplomatic negotiation at joint venture,” Singson said.

He underscored the importance of diplomacy and joint ventures, stating, “We need discipline and should learn from other nations. Conflicts, like disputes over the Philippine Sea, do not benefit us. Diplomatic negotiation is the way forward."

“If we go to war with China, we lack the capacity. Diplomacy is still the answer to any misunderstanding,” he added.

Singson also emphasized the need to enhance Mindanao’s economic zones to attract more investors, pledging that Misamis Occidental would not be left out of future projects if he secures a Senate seat.

“Dapat isinusulong ang economic zone kasi yon ang attraction (para) sa mga investor,” he added.