Press Release - Tolentino stresses importance of unity, cooperation in achieving good governance

Senate Majority Leader Francis 'Tol' Tolentino believes that fostering unity and cooperation among different sectors is a key to effective leadership and ensuring good governance at the local level.

This was underscored by Tolentino, who was among the special guests at the celebration of the 140th founding anniversary of the town of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur over the weekend.

On Saturday, Tolentino joined Sta. Cruz residents and officials, led by Mayor Jose Nelson Sala in festivities held at the town's municipal gymnasium, where the senator acknowledged the town's best practices.

"I believe in the power of local government units (LGUs). If all LGUs strive to achieve the seal of good governance, just like Sta. Cruz, which has already won several awards, then the Philippines would be a much better country," said the senator, himself a former chief executive, having served as mayor of the progressive city of Tagaytay.

"The celebration of this landmark occasion would not be possible without your unity and cooperation. It took months of meticulous planning to stage an event such as this. That's why I have nothing but respect for the people of Sta. Cruz," added Tolentino.

He acknowledged several sectors in the audience, particularly barangay health workers, teachers, and other public servants, whom he thanked for helping the municipal government provide vital healthcare and nutrition, education, and other social services to the people.

He also took the opportunity to greet the town's teachers on the occasion of World Teachers Day.

In a separate activity, the senator led the distribution of financial aid to the town's marginalized sectors under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Work and Development.

The week-long 140th Araw ng Sta. Cruz celebration highlighted the rich history, heritage, and culture of Sta. Cruz, which is considered among the oldest towns in Mindanao.

Tolentino: pagkakaisa at kooperasyon, susi sa epektibong pamamahala
Senador, nakiisa sa ika-140 taong pagdiriwang ng Araw ng Sta. Cruz, Davao Del Sur

Mahalaga ang pagkakaisa at kooperasyon sa epektibong pamumuno, lalo na sa lokal na pamahalaan.