DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur (PIA) -- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lauded the efforts of the Davsuraonon for making Davao del Sur a peaceful and progressive place.

He also recognized the provincial government’s effort to improve the facilities such as on the health care services that catered not only to the people of Davao del Sur but also to residents outside the province.

“To all the local leaders, thank you for your service to the province and to the people,” the President said, noting that in Davao Region, Davao del Sur was the first province to declare as insurgency-free as he highlighted the importance of peace in making a place wholesome and livable.

“It is because of your diligence and compassionate implementation of the Tupad Pangako program, you are able to accomplish this, while helping former rebels and their families reintegrate into the society and take part in rebuilding our nation,” President Marcos said.

He also thanked that the local government’s programs are aligned with his administration’s eight-point socioeconomic agenda as he vowed the national government’s support to the LGU.

For its 56th Araw ng Davao del Sur, the celebration is anchored on the theme "Lig-ong Probinsya, Lig-ong Katawhan Alang sa Maanyag nga Kaugmaon ug Malungtarong Kalambuan."

It can be recalled that on May 8, 1967, the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr, the father of the current president, signed Republic Act 4867 dividing the mother province of Davao into three provinces – Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, and Davao Oriental. The law was ratified on July 1 of the same year.

In 2013, Davao del Sur was further divided into two provinces, creating the province of Davao Occidental through Republic Act 10360.

Now, Davao del Sur boasts several cultural and natural destinations, including the highest peak in the Philippines-- the Mount Apo. (JSGD)