Cebu Governor Welcomes Mindanao Mayors, Emphasizes Historical Ties

CEBU CITY — Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia underscored the historical and cultural connections between the Visayans and Mindanaoans during her address to 200 mayors from Mindanao who are attending a three-day conference in Cebu City. The event, the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Mindanao Island Cluster Conference (LMP-MICC), is set to conclude on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the shared history and traits of the people from the Visayas, particularly Cebu, and Mindanao, highlight the deep bonds that unite them. Speaking in Cebuano, Garcia referred to the mayors as “brothers of the old,” emphasizing the enduring brotherhood between the two regions. “Many years ago, we were all brothers. In the coming years, our brotherhood will remain,” she stated.

The provincial government of Cebu hosted a dinner for the visiting mayors on Wednesday night, showcasing the hospitality that influenced the decision to hold the conference in Cebu. Mayor Joseph Blando of La Paz, Abra, the current national president of LMP, noted that Cebu was chosen as the venue due to the warm welcome and accommodating environment provided by the province.

The conference aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among local government units in Mindanao. Participants have discussed strategies, insights, and best practices for sustainable development in their respective municipalities, with Cebu serving as an inspiring backdrop for these discussions.