Sisterhood pact unites Surigao Sur, cities of Tandag, San Juan
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY (PIA) — The province of Surigao del Sur and the city of Tandag entered into a Sisterhood Agreement with the city government of San Juan, Metro Manila on August 15 at the Provincial Legislative Session Hall, Capitol Hills, Tandag City.
In line with the national government’s thrust for a Bagong Pilipinas anchored on unity, good governance, and inclusive growth, the agreement strengthens local partnerships and cooperation in governance, education, trade and investment, tourism promotion, cultural exchange, and social services, linking opportunities between the signatory local government units (LGUs).
Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny T. Pimentel and Vice Governor Manuel Alameda, together with Tandag City Mayor Roxanne C. Pimentel, represented the province and city, while San Juan City Mayor Francisco Javier M. Zamora led the visiting delegation.
Gov. Pimentel emphasized the pivotal role of the collaboration that reflects the administration’s call for stronger inter-LGU cooperation. “This covenant is not merely a symbolic partnership, it is a concrete commitment to advance good governance, promote cultural exchange, expand economic opportunities, and strengthen tourism and development. Through this alliance, we are blessed to share knowledge, resources, and experiences that will uplift the lives of our people.”
Mayor Pimentel underscored that the sisterhood embodies shared progress and transparency in governance. “We officially welcome the city of San Juan as our sister in progress and good governance. Together, we move forward toward prosperity, ensuring this partnership benefits our people.”
Mayor Zamora, speaking on behalf of San Juan, highlighted the value of mutual learning and shared experiences in governance.
“Ang layunin po namin ay makapagbahagi ng ating best practices at matuto rin mula sa isa’t isa. Marami na tayong karanasan sa paglilingkod, at magandang matuto tayo para mas lalo nating mapalakas ang ating mga komunidad (Our goal is to share our best practices and also learn from one another. We already have many experiences in public service, and it is good for us to keep learning so we can further strengthen our communities),” he said.
He also expressed his intent to return for a longer visit, noting his interest in experiencing Surigao del Sur’s renowned attractions such as the Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, and other natural wonders in the province.
The San Juan delegation, fresh from their engagement in Surigao del Norte, particularly in Siargao Island, arrived in Tandag City via speedboat at the Tandag Port.
The sisterhood pact is expected to pave the way for joint programs that will boost governance, education, trade and investment, tourism, cultural exchange, and social services, creating linkages and opportunities between the partner LGUs.
As the national government pursues a whole-of-nation approach to governance, the Sisterhood Agreement reinforces efforts to build stronger partnerships between local communities, ensuring that progress reaches every Filipino family. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
