Speaker Martin Romualdez on Sunday said the biggest ever Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) of President Marcos was rolled out in Sultan Kudarat to deliver direct service to 150,000 Mindanaons with P1.2 billion in government aid in cash and other forms of assistance.
“Today, we are launching the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair of the President in Sultan Kudarat. This is not only the accomplishment of a promise of unity but another proof that Mindanao is close to the heart and mind of our leaders,” he said in his keynote address at the opening of the BPSF that will run until today at the provincial capitol compound in Isulan.
“Under Bagong Pilipinas, our beloved President said no one shall be left behind,” he added.
Some 45 members of the House of Representatives – all of whom were from Mindanao – participated in the BPSF in the province.
“This remarkable turnout serves as a resounding testament to the unity and solidarity of Mindanao lawmakers to a united Philippines under the visionary leadership of President Marcos. It sends a powerful message that despite our diverse backgrounds and regional differences, we stand together as one nation, united in our commitment to building a brighter future for all Filipinos,” Romualdez said.
“The significant participation of lawmakers from across the political spectrum at the BPSF underscores our unwavering dedication to addressing the needs and aspirations of every Filipino, regardless of geographical location. It reflects our shared determination to promote inclusivity, progress and prosperity for all citizens, especially those in underserved regions like Sultan Kudarat,” he added.
The strong presence of the lawmakers serve as a resolute answer to any calls for secession or division within Mindanao, Romualdez said.
“By coming together in solidarity, we demonstrate our steadfast rejection of any attempts to undermine the unity and integrity of our nation. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of peace, unity and nation-building,” he added.
At least 57 members of Congress earlier signed a unified manifesto for national integrity and development against an independent Mindanao amid secession calls by former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“We, the elected representatives of Mindanao in the House of Representatives, firmly oppose the calls for the secession of Mindanao from the Republic of the Philippines. Our stance is deeply rooted in our belief in national unity, the power of inclusive development, and the promise of a peaceful, progressive future for all Filipinos, including the indigenous people of Mindanao,” the manifesto read.
“Mindanao’s vibrant cultural diversity represents the nation’s broader principle of unity in diversity. We stand for fostering understanding and collaboration across all communities within the framework of the Republic, enriching our shared national identity and heritage.”