In a comprehensive State of the Province Address that painted a picture of resilience and progress, Davao de Oro Governor Dorothy Gonzaga unveiled significant achievements in two critical sectors: food security and tourism development throughout 2023.
Agricultural Revolution Takes Root
The province's agricultural sector witnessed transformative initiatives under Governor Gonzaga's leadership. The groundbreaking 'Piso Padala' program emerged as a game-changer, enabling residents to receive financial support directly from overseas relatives through strategically placed kiosks across municipal centers.
"This initiative not only facilitates easier remittance collection but also stimulates local economic activity," Governor Gonzaga emphasized during her address at the Provincial Capitol.
Rice Production Soars to New Heights
The numbers speak volumes about the province's agricultural success:
- Rice sufficiency levels reached an impressive 159.17%, far exceeding national averages
- Total rice production hit 198,748 metric tons from 46,463 hectares of farmland
- Corn production contributed significantly with 90,693 metric tons
These achievements position Davao de Oro as a leading agricultural powerhouse in the Mindanao region.
Tourism Sector Experiences Remarkable Resurgence
Beyond agriculture, the province's tourism industry demonstrated strong recovery signals. Governor Gonzaga reported substantial increases across key metrics:
- Tourist arrivals surged to 1.8 million visitors in 2023
- The tourism sector generated an estimated P3.5 billion in revenue
- Local employment in tourism-related businesses saw significant growth
Strategic Infrastructure Development
The provincial government's commitment to infrastructure played a crucial role in these achievements. Enhanced road networks and transportation facilities have improved access to both agricultural zones and tourist destinations, creating a virtuous cycle of economic development.
"Our integrated approach to development ensures that progress in one sector positively impacts others," Governor Gonzaga stated, highlighting the interconnected nature of the province's growth strategy.
Future-Focused Initiatives
Looking ahead, the provincial government has outlined ambitious plans to build on this momentum. The address highlighted upcoming programs designed to:
- Further enhance agricultural productivity through modern farming techniques
- Expand tourism marketing efforts to attract international visitors
- Develop sustainable practices across all economic sectors
The 2023 State of the Province Address ultimately presented Davao de Oro as a model of balanced regional development, successfully addressing immediate needs while laying foundations for long-term prosperity.
