MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos expects the completion of the San Juanico Aesthetic Lighting Project to prop up tourism and economic activity in the Eastern Visayas region particularly as it gears toward post-pandemic recovery.

“With the recent completion of the San Juanico Aesthetic Lighting Project, I look forward to seeing the bridge turn into a true sight to behold, not just during the day, but now even in the dark at night,” the President said in a speech Wednesday evening after witnessing the switch-on for the lighting project.

“I look forward to the economic opportunities that will be stimulated by this, as well as other Spark Samar initiatives, in the near future. I eagerly anticipate the assistance it will bring for the complete recovery of the tourism industry in the Eastern Visayas and nearby areas,” Marcos added.

The President congratulated the officials of the provinces of Leyte and Samar, the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and all those who worked tirelessly to maintain and beautify the region’s impressive landmark and engineering marvel.

The joint efforts of both the government and non-government entities are commendable, he said, adding that it’s a partnership that the administration has tried to encourage as it begins to transform the Philippine economy in a post-pandemic world.

“It is fundamental in our pursuit of programs this kind of cooperation that you have done and — programs and projects that will boost the tourism and economic development of Samar and Leyte,” Marcos said.

The chief executive expects the event to encourage the local governments and people of Samar and Leyte, as well as every Filipino, to pursue programs that will enhance the country’s infrastructure, and at the same time create long-lasting impacts in people’s lives.

“Rest assured that this Administration will stay the course to provide whatever you need to enhance, preserve, and showcase the best that you have to offer,” he said.

The 2.16 km San Juanico Bridge, which connects Samar and Leyte, was built during the administration of the late president Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, the President’s father.

Its construction was funded by Japan’s War Reparations Program and was inaugurated on July 2, 1973, coinciding with the birthday of then First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos who hails from Tacloban City. (PND)