TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental — Diplomatic negotiations remain key to achieving lasting peace in Mindanao, said Luis Chavit Singson during a forum with members of the local transport sector on December 18.
Singson emphasized that sustained peace is crucial for fully unlocking Mindanao’s tourism potential.
Drawing comparisons to countries like China and South Korea, he noted their effective tourism strategies and the importance of replicating such best practices.
“Disiplina ang kailangan natin at matoto tayo sa ibang nation, like Philippine Sea away-away. Hindi maganda yon. Madamay lang tayo sa away. Dapat diplomatic negotiation at joint venture,” said Singson.
He underscored the importance of diplomacy and joint ventures, saying, “We need discipline and should learn from other nations. Conflicts, like disputes over the Philippine Sea, do not benefit us. Diplomatic negotiation is the way forward.
While addressing potential military conflicts, Singson candidly remarked on the challenges of competing with China’s advanced weaponry.
“If we go to war with China, we lack the capacity. Diplomacy is still the answer to any misunderstanding,” he said, humorously adding, “Sabay-sabay lang silang umihi, bumunot na tayo.”
Singson also highlighted the need to enhance Mindanao’s economic zones to attract more investors, pledging that Misamis Occidental would not be left out of future projects if he secures a Senate seat.
“Dapat isinusulong ang economic zone kasi yon ang attraction nang mga investor,” said Singson.
