Senator Noynoy Aquino Campaigns on Samal Island

Samal Island got a visit from yet another famous Pilipino, this time it was the presidential political candidate Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. From my understanding Samal hasn’t received much consideration from the candidates in past elections, so this was a special event.

Some 3,000 Samaleños braved the scorching heat of summer on Saturday to show their support to Aquino, whom they believe can bring change in the country.

Young and old Aquino supporters, most of them were clad in yellow, filled the Babak Gym in Igacos amid the intense heat of the sun.

During the visit Aquino pushed for the promotion of Samal Island as a tourist destination for the country. While I already consider Samal a tourist destination, I will assume that he means to grow it even further and promote it beyond what is now being done. While this has many positives for the island and those wishing employment, it raises concerns for those wishing to live on the island.

LIBERAL Party standard bearer Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III cited Saturday the potentials of the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos) as a tourist destination in Mindanao.

“It’s only a 15-minute ride from Davao City. We do not see why it shouldn’t be a tourist destination in the country,” Aquino said in an interview during his visit to the island on Saturday.

“Aminadong marami pang gagawin dito, kailangan pang ayusin ang mga daanan. Kailangan ring palakasin pa ang lokal na kapabilidad para sa mga touristang dadagsa rito. Jobs will be generated through tourism. This shouldn’t take long to develop. Kayang pagandahin pa ang Samal island,” he added.

It will be interesting to see if any other candidates follow suit and visit Samal Island now that Senator Aquino has done so. The election is being held on May 10, 2010 so time is running out.

via Senator Noynoy Aquino cites Igacos’ tourism potentials | Sun.Star Network Online.