‘Let us capitalize the legacy of former leaders’ - Capiz guv says

Capiz Governor Victor Tanco (second from right) receives the certificate of appreciation from Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores during the 'Pagpadungog' event on April 25, marking the 58th founding anniversary of Aklan as an independent province. Joining them were Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo and Capiz provincial board members Enrique Martin and   Emmanuel Billones, Jr. / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Capiz governor Victor Tanco challenged the leaders of Aklan and Capiz provinces to capitalize the legacy of former leaders and unity of ancestors towards an economically progressive Aklan and Capiz.

Tanco joined Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores, Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo and Aklan Rep. Teodorico Haresco, Jr. in ‘Pagpadungog’ – a showcase of culture and arts and a recognition of modern-day heroes who extended their help after super typhoon Yolanda in Aklan. 

Tanco also expressed the solidarity of Capiz in commemorating the 58th founding anniversary of Aklan last April 25.  He also congratulated the province of Aklan for holding the celebration, most especially for not allowing typhoon Yolanda to quell the Aklanon spirit and faith. 

“Your heroism and generosity during those trying times are commendable and noteworthy. Indeed, the celebration is both significant and relevant. For the past 58 years, your leaders have worked so hard for the stability and growth of your province,” he said.

Tanco stressed, “today, Aklan is one of the fast-growing provinces in the region and in the country.”

“All these were made possible because your leaders have the political will to do only what is best for your province and the Aklanons deep-seated love for Aklan brought it what it is today.”

“What exactly 58 years ago was the best decision for Aklan and its people. Before April 25, 1956, Capiz and Aklan belong to one province. We were one people, we share the same history and aspirations and same leaders,” Tanco said. 

“We are here to renew the relationship and strengthen the solidarity and partnership with you. We will continue to support and work with each other as we aspire for economic progress of both provinces to improve the lives of our people. Aklan and Capiz share so much in common.”

Tanco said the two provinces are blessed by the richness of the sea and bounties of the natural resources. The Aklanons and Capiznons, he said, are among the ingenuous, resourceful, hardworking and resilient among the Filipinos.  

Tanco said “if we will be able to bring our acts we would never fail to achieve a more progressive Aklan and Capiz.”

Also in attendance during the Pagpadungog were former Senator Nikki Coseteng and Vicky Ramos-Antonino, daughter of then Congressman Godofredo Peralta Ramos, better known as the Father of Aklan.

On April 25, 1956, then President Ramon Magsaysay signed Republic Act No. 1414, a special non-working holiday in Aklan to commemorate the separation of Aklan from Capiz.